Ron Wyden: “A new public opinion poll shows that Americans are particularly concerned about the restriction that keeps Medicare from…”

“A new public opinion poll shows that Americans are particularly concerned about the restriction that keeps Medicare from bargaining to hold down the costs of the medicine older people purchase. In fact, a new poll yesterday indicated 93 percent of the American people want this restriction lifted--and for obvious reasons. The fact of the matter is, millions of older people simply cannot pay their skyrocketing prescription drug bills and they want to know why the Government isn't doing more to contain these costs. Fortunately, we have been able to make a little bit of headway on this issue in the Senate. Senator Snowe and I, in particular, earlier this year, got the support of 54 Senators, a majority of the Senate, to lift this restriction and take stronger action to hold down the cost of medicine. Medicare is sort of like the guy going to Costco buying toilet paper one roll at a time. The Government is not acting like a smart shopper. The Government is not taking practical steps like everyone in Tennessee, Oregon, Iowa, or anywhere else, to use bargaining power to hold down the cost of this essential for older people, prescription drugs. We have made a bit of headway. I have been particularly pleased the distinguished Senator from Nevada, Mr. Reid, made it clear this would be a top priority for the Senate to take up when we begin our work early next year.”