COMMUNITY BULLETIN – December 2002

Message from Liz . . .
I am happy to report that the New York State Senate has a new Minority Leader. Last month, Senator David Paterson representing District 29 received unanimous consent to lead the Democrats in the Senate in 2003. I was happy to support Senator Paterson’s nomination for Minority Leader. He has been a strong advocate for the city and I’m looking forward to working closely with him to move important legislation in the upcoming session.

Last month in my community bulletin, I mentioned that the Senate would be heading back to Albany in December. The legislature met earlier this week and passed the Sexual Orientation Non-Discrimination Act (SONDA). Unfortunately, Joe Bruno, the Senate Majority Leader, failed to move other important legislation including Rockefeller Drug Law reform and superfund financing legislation. These issues remain on a very long agenda for next years session, including renewal of rent regulations.

On Thursday, December 5, 2002, I testified in front of the New York State Assembly Committee on Health. Chaired by Assembly member Dick Gottfried, the committee’s goals were to explore alternative methods of lowering the costs of prescription drugs thereby enhancing the quality of life for New Yorkers (see press release on other side).

Although the agenda was about escalating drug costs it is obvious that prescription drug use must be seen within the continuum of care that is provided by insurance. It is the reality of the 21st century that prescription drugs are integral to maintaining health and averting more costly medical interventions -- such as surgery, hospitalization and long- term disability costs.

I am committed to ensuring a better quality of life for all New Yorkers. Although the upcoming year will be frought with issues ranging from homeland security to the ever increasing deficit, I am committed to working with my constituency to bring New York back to the top.

District Office: 211 East 43rd Street, Suite 1300, New York NY 10017 (212) 490-9535 Fax: (212) 490-2151
Albany Office: Room 302, Legislative Office Bldg., Albany NY 12247 (518) 455-2297 Fax: (518) 426-6874

For Immediate Release: December 10, 2002
Contact: Richard D. Graham (c) 917.709.3110 (w) 212.490.9535 (f) 212.490.2151

Senator Krueger Testifies Before Assembly Health Committee

Cost of Prescription Drugs in New York State

New York, NY – Senator Krueger on Thursday, December 5, 2002, testified before the New York State Assembly Committee on Health. The hearing, held by Committee Chair Richard Gottfried, explored alternative methods implemented by other state’s to lower the cost of prescription drugs and, in turn, enhance the quality of life for New Yorkers.

Prescription drug costs have risen 17% from 2001 and more than doubled since 1996. Many states are confronting the costs of prescription drugs through state-funded programs to help consumers save money. “Without constructing adequate legislation in New York State, these price trends will further erode benefits,” said Senator Krueger. “Experience has shown that as prices go up, co-pays increase and other limits are placed on coverage further decreasing access to health care.”

Maine and Hawaii have reduced costs for prescription drug plans that allow participation beyond the Medicaid population for income eligible families and individuals. Enrollment fees in the program also have been eliminated further reducing costs. “New York State, in formulating policy, may examine these other states policies and should further explore the possibility of expanding coverage through the enormous buying power afforded the state through bulk purchases,” stated Krueger. “As the New York Campaign for Access to Affordable Drugs recommends, New York should pool its health insurance programs to act as one purchasing entity and thereby achieve a reduction in prescription drug costs.”

Senator Krueger said, “While reducing prescription drug costs, New York State needs to develop a system that inspires trust. In our state, there are unique needs, demographics and philosophies with regard to health care. While we can benefit from the experience of other states, we must always take our particular situation into account as we formulate New York State health policy.”

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