House passes Canadian-drug legislation

OLYMPIA – Washington lawmakers want to make it easier for the state’s 2 million prescription drug users to get lower-cost supplies from Canada.

The state House on Wednesday voted to use this route for state-purchased drugs and to authorize a state-sponsored Internet site to link customers to Canadian pharmacies.

The legislation prompted a floor fight between majority Democrats, who called it a blow for affordable meds, and Republicans who called it window-dressing that could possibly hurt consumers.

After House Speaker Frank Chopp, D-Seattle, cut off debate, Republicans were sputtering and 25 of them refused to vote. Minority Leader Bruce Chandler, R-Granger, his face flushed with anger, shouted at Chopp, who refused to stop the roll call. The bill passed 56-17. But after a private huddle, Chopp allowed more debate and a revote. This time it passed 56-42 and is headed to the Senate.

The bill is part of a prescription drug package offered by legislative Democrats and Gov. Christine Gregoire. They also want a federal waiver to allow the state to license Canadian prescription drug wholesalers so cheaper drugs can be imported more easily. They propose legislation to create a drug-purchasing pool to drive down costs for businesses, labor organizations and individuals.

The latter bills are expected to clear the House on Friday.

Rep. Geoff Simpson, D-Covington, sponsor of Wednesday’s reimportation bill, said Washington customers need help linking up with Canadian pharmacies. About 700,000 state residents don’t have prescription drug coverage and sometimes have to choose between eating and having their prescriptions filled, he said.

Because of Canadian price controls and the exchange rate, Americans can buy name-brand drugs at least half off, he said.

His bill would authorize the state to buy prescription drugs for state workers, prisoners, mental patients and others via Canada. It also would authorize a Web site to link consumers to Canadian suppliers.

Rep. Tom Campbell, R-Roy, said the point of the legislation is to put pressure on the federal government to drive down drug costs via reimportation and other means.

But Rep. Doug Ericksen, R-Ferndale, and other Republicans said the drugs are not of proven quality and that the legislation is a feel-good vote that could actually backfire. Canada may crack down on the practice, eliminating the possibility of consumers driving across the border to get their prescriptions filled in British Columbia, he said.