Rep. Keith Ellison Statement on TPP Prescription Drug Provisions

WASHINGTON – Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN) released the following statement today after announcements of a U.S. proposal for an eight-year market exclusivity term for biologics drugs in the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP):

 

“Americans are already struggling with the burden of high drug prices, so it is unacceptable that drug companies are advocating for harmful policies in TPP, which is in final negotiations by representatives in Atlanta. Pharmaceutical companies are pushing for increased patent protection and exclusivity to line their coffers. These policies would increase the cost of prescription drugs, and prevent working families from accessing life-saving treatments.

 

“We need a good trade deal that would control the cost of drugs and ensure access for all Americans, rather than allowing Big Pharma’s monopolies to continue.”