Governor Murphy Surprises New Jersey With Big Announcement

Phil Murphy recently surprised New Jersey residents with a big announcement about prescription drug prices...

Photo byPhil Murphy via Wikimedia Commons

New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy recently signed three bills to help make prescription drugs more affordable. “This is a huge step forward in our ongoing efforts to deliver much-needed relief to countless families throughout our state who are struggling to afford critical medications,” said Governor Murphy.

“I am proud to sign nation-leading legislation that will make a real difference in the lives of New Jerseyans," he continued. "We will continue to work towards making prescription drugs and other health care services more affordable and accessible to everyone.”

“The high cost of prescription medication jeopardizes the health and well-being of the most vulnerable among us: low-income families, the elderly, the uninsured, and people with disabilities,” said Attorney General Matthew Platkin. “I applaud Governor Murphy and the Legislature for taking these important first steps toward reining in the rising cost of prescription drugs in our state.” 

“Across the nation, too many people are being forced to ration or go without critically needed and potentially life-saving prescription medications. I’m proud that in New Jersey we are working to make the prescription drug industry more transparent,” said Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin. “The legislation being signed into law will help us better understand how medications are priced, giving us the data necessary to respond and promote increased access to appropriate care as well as improve oversight and transparency of the entire pharmaceutical supply chain.”

“Far too many New Jerseyans have experienced the stress of affording the price of a medication, often cutting back on groceries, putting off bills, and even rationing or skipping doses. And unfortunately, prescription drug costs are just one factor pushing health care out of reach for many residents,” said Shabnam Salih, Director of the Governor’s Office of Health Care Affordability and Transparency. "This package is a critical part of that work and a huge step forward that will have a real impact on New Jersey residents. It would not have been possible without the Governor’s leadership and the commitment of our partners throughout the Administration, in the Legislature, and in the community.”

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