Dennis Tuuri

Full PEAPAC Analysis

PEAPAC Explanation: This Measure expands the current OPDP (Oregon Prescription Drug Program). It currently provides discounted drug prices for low-income seniors without drug coverage. If Measure 44 passes, all Oregonians without drug coverage will be eligible.

PEAPAC Comment: The State tells us the fiscal impact of this Measure is zero. The OPDP doesn’t use tax dollars to supplement low cost prescriptions. And any increased administrative costs as a result of this Measure’s passage will be offset by grants and lower state costs for drug coverage for state employees. Additionally, the OPDP does not mandate that all pharmacies have to be part of the program. If it did, our view of the Bible’s teaching on the proper role of government and taxes would raise concerns about it. Instead, the state negotiates lower prices with the participating pharmacies. The lower prices are a result of the large pool of buyers in the program. So, the passage of Measure 45 [Note: Likely typo in source, referring to Measure 44] would increase the number of participants but would NOT cost Oregon’s taxpayers any money. Nor would it force pharmacies to engage in practices that were not in their own best interest.

The program will make more affordable prescription drugs available for the uninsured. The drug companies, pharmacies and associated lobbyists are not opposing this measure. While market forces may result in lower than anticipated drug savings, we see no reason to prohibit the voluntary financial arrangements of this program and the resultant lower drug prices for the uninsured. We recommend a yes vote on this measure