As part of KQED’s Election 2016 coverage, we’ll discuss California’s Proposition 61. The measure is designed to lower prescription drug prices by prohibiting state programs, such as Medi-Cal, from paying more for a drug than the lowest price paid by the Federal Department of Veteran’s Affairs – which presently gets large discounts. Proponents say the measure would save the state hundreds of millions of dollars a year and may even lower drug costs for private insurers. Opponents argue that the measure could reduce consumer access to certain drugs. Meanwhile, the state Legislative Analyst’s Office says it’s hard to predict how much money, if any, could be saved by the measure. We’ll hear from KQED’s health reporter and check in with both sides of the Prop. 61 debate.
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