In the six years since enactment of Medicare Modernization Act, which created the prescription drug benefit, I have often heard from Californians who believe their drug costs are too high under the plan.  Part of the reason is that, under the current plan, Medicare is legally barred from negotiating for better drug prices for seniors. 

I am pleased to let you know that I have cosponsored the Medicare Prescription Drug Savings and Choice Act of 2009 (S.330), which would create a Medicare-administered prescription drug plan to provide seniors an alternative to the more expensive, privately administered prescription drug plans currently offered under Part D.

I know that the high cost of prescription drugs is difficult for many seniors.  This bill offers an affordable drug benefit that would compete with private prescription drug plans.  This alternative plan would require the Administration to negotiate for lower prescription drug prices  and give consumers access to cheaper, more affordable medicines.