US seniors group lays down the law in NY

The AARP, the USA's largest advocacy group which represents over 30 million senior citizens, has recommended that the New York State Legislature accepts a proposal by the Governor to create a prescription drug discount card for uninsured residents of the Empire State. In addition, lawmakers were advised to investigate bulk purchasing of drugs for the benefit of taxpayers and low-income residents. The AARP's views were put to the Legislature at a budget hearing.

Lois Aronstein, the AARP New York State director, argued that branded prescription drugs had increased in price at nearly double and some rises approaching three times the inflation rate. The seniors' group also made a number of representations to the New York State authorities concerning long-term care initiatives and opposing Medicaid cuts.