WASHINGTON—AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer Nancy LeaMond issued the following statement in response to President Biden’s remarks today about the need to lower prescription drug prices:

“AARP was encouraged to hear President Biden speak out again today about the importance of lowering prescription drug prices, but now it’s time to get it done – we need the Senate to act. Americans pay as much as three times more than any other country for prescription drugs. For too many years, seniors have been forced to choose between the medicines they need and paying for other essentials like rent and food. They are sick and tired of waiting for Congress to act.

“If the prices for household goods had risen as fast as drug prices over the last 15 years, gas would now cost $12.20 a gallon and milk would be $13 a gallon. Imagine the outcry among Congress if Americans had to pay that much for gas and for milk?

“Congress has promised for years to address the price of prescription drugs. Now is the time to get the job done. We urge the Senate to advance a reconciliation package that includes the reforms to lower prescription drug prices agreed to in the Build Back Better Act.”

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About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org, www.aarp.org/espanol or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspanol and @AARPadvocates, @AliadosAdelante on social media.