A bill to expand a prescription assistance program has cleared the Appropriations Subcommittee on Human Services, Senator Susan Paddack, author of the measure said.

Paddack explained Senate Bill 690 seeks to expand the Prescription Assistance Program started in Norman last year. The program increases access to prescription drugs for low income Oklahomans through a partnership with pharmaceutical companies that offer free and discounted prices on prescription drugs. The pilot program has already served more than 1,300 low income or uninsured Oklahomans, saving them close to $9 million in prescription drug costs.

“I believe we must build upon the success of the Norman program and find ways to expand it into other parts of the state. Senate Bill 690 will allow more Oklahomans access to a program that provides much needed assistance with the enormous expenses that often come with prescription drugs,” Paddack said. “I am pleased to see it pass out of this subcommittee with a unanimous bi-partisan vote”

Paddack said the program uses volunteers to create the infrastructure necessary to determine eligibility for the program, availability of the prescription drugs from the drug companies and create public awareness about the program.

“The majority of Oklahomans using this program work full time jobs and still are trying to decide between paying for their prescriptions or putting food on the table and we cannot allow that to continue.” Paddack said. “Maximizing volunteer assistance allows the program to help the working Oklahoma families who need it most.”

Paddack said passing the bill out of committee gets the measure one step closer to providing prescription drugs to those who need them most. She also said this program would compliment the Governor’s prescription drug plan that was voted out of another Senate committee earlier today.

“I am encouraged by the committee action today in the senate on this bill as well as the bill including Governor Henry’s prescription drug plan,” the Senator said. “I look forward to working with the Governor and my colleagues in both the House and Senate to bring a prescription drug plan that benefits all Oklahomans,”

“Helping Oklahomans save money on prescription drugs is an investment that will make a brighter future for our state and make a better tomorrow for our children.” Paddack said.

For more information contact:
Senate Communications Office - (405) 521-5774