WILLIAMS’ FAIRX DISCOUNT CARD PLAN UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED

HARRISBURG, April 16, 2002 – The Senate Aging and Youth Committee today unanimously adopted an amendment sponsored by Senator Constance H. Williams (D-Montgomery/Delaware) that would significantly lower prescription drug prices for senior citizens in Pennsylvania.

Williams’ tenacity in insisting the committee vote the amendment brought an appreciated and enthusiastic response from the nearly 100 senior citizens who had packed the committee meeting room.

"This amendment was desperately needed because it ensures that all deserving senior citizens get the best prescription drug prices possible," Williams said.

For months, Republicans objected to even considering the amendment but backed down today when it became clear that the sentiment of the room was with the Democrats.

Under the original plan without the amendment, some seniors would have been unable to qualify for low-cost prescription drugs.

Williams’ amendment would assist middle-income senior citizens who would still not be eligible for any help under the PACE, PACENET or PACENET Plus programs.

The amendment also would assist seniors who reach their benefit limit before the end of the year.

The amended plan also would allow any senior citizen with a Medicare card to receive a discount price on their prescription drugs simply by presenting their Medicare card to the pharmacist.

Medicare recipients would be allowed under this amended bill to purchase prescription drugs at the same reduced price that PACE recipients enjoy.

"I am pleased that my amendment was adopted today because it provides better access for all seniors with minimal bureaucratic obstacles," said Williams.

"I will continue to fight tooth and nail to reduce prescription drug costs for all senior citizens in Pennsylvania."