Saturday, November 5th 2005
Open Forum: Props 78 & 79
The election is just a few days away. To round out our series of Open Forums on the propositions, we invite you to discuss the dueling 78 and 79. There’s still a chance to jump into the heated debate on Prop 73 as well as on the Governor’s initiatives. And if you really want to talk about Prop 80, then you can use this post. I guess…
A short intro from the IGS:
Propositions 78 & 79: Prescription Drug Discounts:
With the the costs of prescription drugs rising, Californians now face shrinking coverage, higher co-pays and difficulty in obtaining the medication they need. Current California law requires pharmacies to sell prescription drugs at reduced prices for residents enrolled in the federal Medicare program. However, the pressure to introduce new pharmacy assistance programs has intensified in recent years. The urgency of the prescription drug issue has led to two measures on the November 8, 2005 Special Election ballot. Both initiatives would reduce prices for prescription drug users. One, supported by the pharmaceutical industry, would allow discounted drugs for those in financial need but would allow companies to drop their prices voluntarily. The other, supported by health and consumer groups, would mandate an agreement between the California Department of Health Services and drug companies which would keep drug prices lower for low and middle income prescription drug consumers.
Yes on 78? Yes on 79? Or no on both?
