On the recordSeptember 22, 2010
I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, this legislation, H.R. 5710, would reauthorize the National All Schedules Prescription Electronic Reporting Act, known as NASPER, which provides grants through HHS to the States to establish and operate prescription drug monitoring programs. I also want to thank Congressman Stupak for his tremendous leadership. Without him we wouldn't have this bill on the floor. Chairman Pallone has been helpful, Ranking Members Barton and Shimkus. And I would also like to thank our late friend Charlie Norwood of Georgia, who was very much interested in this legislation. NASPER was designed to reduce prescription drug abuse by providing physicians with the tools to stop the abuse before it starts. The law allows physicians to provide proper medication therapy to patients while also cracking down on the interstate diversion of prescription medications. Importantly, the law contains safeguards to ensure this sensitive information is protected and accessed appropriately. This is an important piece of legislation. I urge all of our Members to support it. I reserve the balance of my time.
