Sununu Puts Rx Companies Ahead Of New Hampshire Seniors

CONCORD, NH - After taking over $100,000 from the pharmaceutical industry, John E. Sununu voted today against allowing the importation of prescription drugs from Canada, a measure that could save seniors up to 60 percent on their medications. Sununu’s vote comes as prescription drug prices rise for the sixth consecutive year.

“Even as prescription drug prices continue to burden New Hampshire’s seniors, John Sununu turned his back and voted against a measure that would allow seniors to save money on the medications they need,” said New Hampshire Democratic Party Chair Ray Buckley said. “Sununu decided to side with the prescription drug companies even when it means higher drug prices for the seniors he represents. It’s time New Hampshire had a senator who represented the people, not the drug companies.”

In 2006, prices for the 193 prescription drugs most commonly used by Americans 50 and older jumped an average of 6.2%, roughly twice the rate of inflation. According to the study by the AARP, average drug prices have increased nearly 54% since the end of 1999. In May 2006, it was reported that “a person without insurance might save as much as 60 percent by purchasing from pharmacies in Canada, where there are price controls.” [Atlanta Journal-Constitution, 3/7/07] [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 5/13/06]

Over the course of his congressional career, Sununu has taken at least $109,248 from the pharmaceutical industry and this morning was at least the fourth time that John Sununu has voted against allowing the importation of safe, affordable prescription drugs from Canada. [Center for Responsive Politics] [Vote #150, 5/3/07; Vote #191, 7/11/06; Vote #232, 6/20/03; Vote #217, 7/11/01]