Feingold Discusses Prescription Drug Costs at Local Listening Sessions Senator Supports Legislation to Make Prescription Drugs More Affordable   July 8, 2002 New Glarus, WI - U.S. Senator Russ Feingold today highlighted his support for the "Prescription Drug Price Parity for Americans Act," which seeks to give seniors and other consumers a fair price for prescription drugs. "It is time for the prescription drug industry to stop gouging consumers," Feingold said. "It’s unfair that an industry that receives such huge tax benefits from the federal government should sell its products at a much higher price in the U.S. than it does abroad. I support lessening prescription drug costs, and giving seniors the fair prices that they deserve." Last year, the cost of prescription drugs increased 17 percent in this country. There have been double-digit increases in the cost of prescription drugs for five years in a row. The "Prescription Drug Price Parity for Americans Act" will allow pharmacists and distributors to sell prescription drugs at a much lower prices by importing them from abroad at lower cost and passing those savings on to the consumer. These prescription drugs would have to be made in FDA-approved plants. "The high cost of prescription drugs keeps too many Americans from getting the quality health care they need," Feingold said. "This problem needs prompt attention. I will continue to support legislation to make prescription drugs affordable for Wisconsin’s seniors." Feingold’s 39th Listening Session of 2002, and his 687th since he was first elected, took place at the Chalet Landhaus Inn, New Glarus, at 8:15 am. Feingold’s 40th Listening Session of 2002, and his 688th since he was first elected, took place at the Lussier Family Heritage Center, Madison, at 11:00 a.m. This is the tenth year that Feingold has held Listening Sessions in every Wisconsin county.

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