Introductory*
City of Baltimore
Council Bill R
(Resolution)
Introduced by: Councilmember Reisinger, President Scott
A Resolution Entitled
A Council Resolution concerning
title
Request for State Action - Override Veto on Senate Bill 669 - Prescription Drug Affordability Board and Fund
For the purpose of calling on the Maryland General Assembly to override the Governor’s veto and pass Senate Bill 669 - Prescription Drug Affordability Board and Fund - as passage of this bill ensures access to affordable prescription drugs.
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Recitals
Whereas, The Prescription Drug Affordability Board is mandated to examine prescription drug costs and affordability in the state, make prescription drugs more affordable for state and local government entities, and present a plan to the General Assembly describing how to make expensive drugs more affordable for all Marylanders;
Whereas, Senate Bill 669 levies a fee on pharmaceutical corporations, pharmacy benefits managers, and insurers to provide funding for the Prescription Drug Affordability Board;
Whereas, Marylanders across the state are struggling to afford the prescription drugs they need, often having to choose between their medication and other necessities, like rent and groceries;
Whereas, COVID-19 has demonstrated the devastating impacts that health disparities have on Baltimore City residents and the importance of affordable healthcare, including affordable prescription drugs;
Whereas, Senate Bill 669 - Prescription Drug Affordability Board and Fund - passed the House of Delegates, with a vote of 97-37, and the Senate unanimously, with a vote of 45-0; and
Whereas, The Governor vetoed the bill on May 7, 2020.
Now, therefore, be it resolved by the City Council of Baltimore, That the City Council calls on the Maryland General Assembly to override the Governor’s veto and pass Senate Bill 669 - Prescription Drug Affordability Board and Fund - as passage of this bill ensures access to affordable prescription drugs.
And be it further resolved, That a copy of this Resolution be sent to the Honorable Chairs and Members of the Baltimore City House and Senate Delegations to the Maryland General Assembly and the Mayor’s Legislative Liaison to the City Council.