Bipartisan group will create action plan to lower the costs of pharmaceuticals

Senator Scott Jensen (R-Chaska) was recently named to the Attorney General’s Advisory Task Force on Lowering Pharmaceutical Drug Prices. Chosen from over 100 candidates, Senator Jensen is one of 15 members, and only four legislators, named to the panel. Comprised of medical practitioners, labor and industry representatives, legislators, and Minnesotans impacted by the high cost of pharmaceutical drugs, the task force will first meet on April 23. The group is tasked with developing a comprehensive strategy to lower prescription drug prices and produce an action plan for the Minnesota Legislature to consider prior to the next legislative session.

“From insulin to epinephrine, the rising costs of prescription medications have stretched the budgets of Minnesota families across our state,” said Senator Jensen, a practicing family physician. “We desperately need pharmaceutical reform. Utilizing a multifaceted approach of legislative and community-based strategies, I am confident this bipartisan group can develop a comprehensive plan for lowering the costs of prescription drugs for all Minnesotans.”

Senator Jensen is a leader in the Minnesota Senate on pharmaceutical reform. He is the chief-author of the bipartisan Minnesota Pharmacy Benefit Manager Licensure and Regulation Act. Passed unanimously by the Minnesota Senate on April 4, the bill aims to increase transparency and affordability in pharmaceuticals.

The task force will hold its first monthly meeting on April 23, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in Room 316 of the State Capitol. Members of the task force will hold a media availability immediately beforehand.