Calling the Medicare bill “the biggest fiasco in memory,” Democratic senators today are introducing legislation designed to ensure seniors have access to prescription drugs. The bill would require all prescription drug plans to provide new enrollees with at least 30 days of prescription drugs during their transition to Medicare. In addition, the plan would provide federal reimbursement for states, pharmacies, and beneficiaries for out-of-pocket costs "because the Medicare prescription drug benefit has failed to cover their costs."
Senate Finance Committee Chairman Charles Grassley (R-IA) responded by saying it is “unacceptable that some of the poorest, sickest people are having the most trouble, according to Market Watch, but that “it's too early to commit to any legislative options because it's unclear whether any legislation is needed." Administrative remedies would be faster, he said.
