[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 77 (Tuesday, June 4, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E796]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 STATEMENT ON H.R. 1919, THE SAFEGUARDING AMERICA'S PHARMACEUTICALS ACT

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                         HON. WILLIAM L. OWENS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 4, 2013

  Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express concerns about a 
provision in H.R. 1919, the Safeguarding America's Pharmaceuticals Act 
of 2013, raised by a large employer in my district. The legislation 
passed by voice vote, and like many of my colleagues I support the 
overall goal and intent of this legislation: namely, to protect more 
Americans from counterfeit pharmaceuticals. However, I have 
reservations about certain sections of the bill due to concerns raised 
in my Congressional District that I hope might be addressed if further 
action is taken in the Senate.
  Section 8 of H.R. 1919 includes language addressing the use of 
electronic labeling for pharmaceutical drugs, meaning that important 
consumer information related to usage, side effects and other issues 
may in some instances be available only over the internet unless a 
customer specifically asks for drug-related instructions in writing. I 
remain concerned about the possible effect these provisions will have 
on seniors and in communities that are underserved or un-served 
entirely by broadband internet. This legislation if passed in its 
current form may create a scenario where a customer who shops at a 
pharmacy that uses the electronic system will be left without critical 
drug information unless they think to ask for it themselves. For many, 
this will leave them in the dark about important, potentially life-
saving information.
  As a representative for a rural community where broadband internet is 
unavailable in many areas, this presents a real concern. I ask that my 
colleagues on both sides of the aisle and in both houses of Congress 
reconsider these provisions should the Senate take action on the bill.

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