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Post-presidential debate poll shows a shift in WI; Teamsters won't endorse in presidential race after releasing internal polling showing most members support Trump; IL energy jobs growth is strong but lacks female workers; Pregnant, Black Coloradans twice as likely to die than the overall population.

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The Teamsters choose not to endorse a presidential candidate, county officials in Texas fight back against state moves to limit voter registration efforts, and the FBI investigate suspicious packages sent to elections offices in at least 17 states.

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A USDA report shows a widening gap in rural versus urban health, a North Carolina county remains divided over a LGBTQ library display, and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz' policies are spotlighted after his elevation to the Democratic presidential ticket.

Report: Medicare Negotiation Rights Worth $226 Million to WV

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Tuesday, April 17, 2007   


Bargaining rights are worth at least $226 million for West Virginia. That's according to a new report from the Institute for America's Future, which calculated the savings for each state if Medicare had permission to negotiate with medicine companies for better prices, just like the Veteran's Administration does. It's an idea opposed by the pharmaceutical industry, which says regular market competition works best. The report also found the savings nationwide would potentially be $30 billion a year. Ted Boettner with West Virginia Citizen Action Group says allowing negotiation is a fiscal responsibility, and a responsibility to seniors.

"Price negotiation helps America keep its commitment to quality, affordable health care, guaranteeing Americans on Medicare access to the medicines they need."

The Medicare Part D law specifically bars the government from negotiating better prices for common medicines, which is something that the Veteran's Administration does now. Pharmaceutical companies say regular market competition will keep prices low.

Boettner believes from the standpoint of human needs, we should do everything possible to keep medication prices low.

"So many of our seniors in West Virginia and around this country, have to choose between getting drugs or getting food to eat."

The Senate may vote on the issue next week. The report is at www.ourfuture.org.


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