AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer Nancy LeaMond issued the following statement today after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) gave approval for Florida to begin taking the steps needed to import prescription drugs from Canada:  

“Today’s announcement from the FDA is an important step that will allow Florida to begin the process of safely importing prescription drugs. While the agency has had the authority to approve state importation plans, it has not done so until today. With this announcement, Florida can begin to set up the process of legally importing less expensive prescription drugs for some of the state’s health care programs.  

“Safe and legal importation of more affordable prescription drugs from Canada and other countries is one of several policy changes AARP has supported to bring down the high price of prescription drugs. Florida estimates this program could save taxpayers up to $150 million annually once fully implemented and help provide much-needed relief for older Americans in Florida who struggle to afford the life-saving medications they need. 

 “AARP has strongly supported bipartisan efforts in states across the nation to allow the importation of lower priced prescription drugs, including Florida, Colorado, Maine, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Texas, and Vermont. We look forward to the implementation of these laws in Florida and other states as we continue the fight to lower drug prices for every American.” 

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About AARP 

AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation's largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.