AARP California and Senator Padilla Speak Out About Need for Lower Prescription Drug Prices

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 1, 2022

CONTACT:
Mark Beach
mbeach@aarp.org

Los Angeles—Today AARP California State Advocacy Director Rafi Nazarians delivered to Senator Alex Padilla’s office a petition signed by 391,000 Californians calling for Congress to act now and stop unfair drug prices. AARP has called for fair drug prices for years and supports legislation that passed the House in November, which would allow Medicare to negotiate drug prices, put a cap on out-of-pocket costs that older adults pay for their prescription drugs and impose penalties on drug companies that raise prices faster than the rate of inflation.

“Accessible, high-quality health care is a fundamental human right,” said Senator Padilla. “No one should be forced to ration their prescriptions or struggle to afford the life-saving medication they need. I am committed to working to lower prescription drug prices and ensure that affordable health care is within reach for every American.”

Lowering prescription drug prices has widespread support among voters, regardless of their party affiliation. An AARP survey of voters found that strong majorities of voters want Congress to act on the issue, with 70% saying it is very important. The survey also found that 87% of voters support allowing Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices.

“Americans are fed up with paying three times what people in other countries pay for the same drugs. More than four million people across the country, including 391,000 here in California, are joining AARP to demand lower prices for prescription drugs,” said Nancy McPherson, AARP California State Director. “There will never be a better time to lower drug prices than the historic opportunity in front of Congress. Now it’s time to get it done!”

More information about AARP’s Fair Drug Prices campaign can be found at aarp.org/rx.

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About AARP AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org or follow @AARP and @AARPadvocates on social media.