Calif. Drug Proposals Spark Huge Campaigns

[dissent1977]

SACRAMENTO, Calif. - The soaring price of prescription drugs has led federal and state lawmakers to seek ways to ease the burden on uninsured residents. But in California, the land of direct democracy, drug companies and consumer groups are going straight to the voters with dueling initiatives in one of the costliest campaigns in U.S. history.

Both measures on California's Nov. 8 special election ballot would cover uninsured residents of all ages who are not eligible for Medicaid, the federal health program for the poor. But they differ on how many people would be eligible and whether drug companies would be forced to participate.

Proposition 79, backed by a coalition of consumer groups and unions, would offer prescription drug discounts to uninsured individuals and families making up to four times the federal poverty level — up to $37,000 for an individual and $75,000 for a family of four. It would discourage any companies that refuse to provide discounts from participating in the state's $4 billion Medicaid program, and would allow residents to sue drug companies for "illegal profiteering."

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The drug industry's alternative is Proposition 78, based on legislation supported last year by Arnold Schwarzenegger, who as governor has received over $377,000 in contributions from drug companies.

More: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20050807/ap_on_he_me/california_drug_discounts

Arnold claimed to be a person who would stand up to the special interests, and then he takes $377,000 from the drug companies. Shame on all those who trusted him.

[Joanne98]

1. Big pharma will lose! Arnold better get those e-voting machines in fast.