Feingold Discusses Prescription Drug Costs at Local Listening Sessions Senator Supports Legislation to Make Prescription Drugs More Affordable   August 5, 2002 Manitowoc, WI - U.S. Senator Russ Feingold today highlighted his support for legislation which seeks to give seniors and other consumers fair prices 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 lowering 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 legislation Feingold supports will allow pharmacists and distributors to sell prescription drugs at a much lower prices by importing them from Canada 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 42nd Listening Session of 2002, and his 690th since he was first elected, took place at the Manitowoc City Hall at 9:15 am. Feingold’s 43rd Listening Session of 2002, and his 691st since he was first elected, took place at the Adams Senior Center, at 3:45 p.m. This is the tenth year that Feingold has held Listening Sessions in every Wisconsin county.

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