An Inexpensive Alternative, Eh?
             Prescription drugs are a large part of many American's income and life. These drugs are often overpriced. These same drugs are being prescribed all over the world and citizens of other countries are purchasing the same drugs for less. The potential exists for American citizens to have a source providing these same drugs at lower costs; Canada is this source. The Canadian government complies with quality and safety regulations that meet or exceed those of the United States of America. The federal government should allow American citizens to purchase prescription drugs from Canada.
             Prescriptions bought in Canada are substantially cheaper than the same prescriptions in the United States. According to the March 15, 2004 issue of the Seattle Times, comparable medications may cost between thirty and eighty percent less in Canada than the same drugs in the United States of America (Young 1). Both individuals and municipalities will benefit from the cheaper purchasing of these prescription drugs. Cybernet News Service's Christine Hall reports, "Illinois' Democratic Governor Rod Blagojevich is reportedly looking for some ninety million dollars in savings from prescription drug costs for his state if government workers and retirees were able to buy drugs from Canada." (2). The potential for both individuals and groups to save money exists and shouldn't be denied.
             Money saved by importing prescription drugs from Canada can be used towards other economic endeavors. Sacramento County supervisor, Illa Collin, states if U. S. citizens were able to purchase Canadian drugs the savings would help free up funding for other programs facing drastic reductions. Without these savings, the U. S. could potentially lose 156 positions from the sheriff's department, close numerous homeless shelters, and close children's clinics (Jahn 1). Regarding the un...