Statement from AARP New Jersey Director of Advocacy, Evelyn Liebman, on AARP’s fight to lower prescription drug prices

WILLINGBORO, NJ (Feb. 14, 2022) – “AARP New Jersey applauds Governor Murphy’s commitment to addressing the skyrocketing cost of prescription medication.

“New Jerseyans are sick and tired of paying the highest prices in the world for the medications they need. More than two out of three New Jersey voters 50 and older are concerned they won’t be able to afford the medicines they need in the future; yet, prescription drug prices continue to rise faster than inflation.

“We look forward to reviewing the legislative package introduced today. While the measures outlined during this press conference address the need for more transparency and capping out-of-pocket costs for certain medications, in order to achieve real and lasting relief for all consumers, New Jersey must also address the root cause of the problem – high prices set by drug manufacturers. Big Pharma is making billions while seniors and taxpayers are getting ripped off.

“AARP New Jersey is working with Senator Singleton and Assemblyman McKeon, numerous co-sponsors in the Senate and Assembly, and consumer allies to enact legislation to establish a New Jersey Prescription Drug Affordability Board (S329/A1747). This independent board of experts will take a comprehensive look at what’s driving prices and recommend action steps that decision makers can take to actually lower drug prices when warranted. Improved transparency tells us whether or not we’re getting ripped off – a Prescription Drug Affordability Board tells us what we’re going to do about it.

“This board brings together subject matter experts to take a comprehensive look at all parts of the supply chain, analyze the whole distribution system, including the review of stakeholder provided data, to determine if prescription prices are reasonable and justified. This expert research and advice will inform the Legislature if price gouging is occurring and provide them with the tools to stop it.

“An overwhelming majority (82%) of New Jersey voters 50 and older support the creation of a Prescription Drug Affordability Board – and with bipartisan support (91% Dem.; 71% Rep.). Too many New Jerseyans are forced to choose between affording life-saving medications or essentials like gas, groceries and rent. For these individuals, relief cannot come soon enough.

“We appreciate that Governor Murphy is making the urgent fight for affordable drugs a top priority of his administration. We look forward to working with him, his staff, Senator Singleton, Assemblyman McKeon and the NJ Legislature to achieve meaningful reform. We urge the Governor and NJ Legislature to enact S329/A1747 to establish the NJ Prescription Drug Affordability Board.”

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About AARP New Jersey
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. AARP New Jersey educates and advocates on behalf of those 50 and older on issues that are important to them, their families and to all Garden State residents. The organization works to strengthen New Jersey communities with a focus on health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/nj or follow @AARPNJ on social media.