Governor Gianforte, Governors Urge Congress to Act on Prescription Drug Shortage

• August 29 2023

HELENA, Mont. – Joining ten governors, Governor Greg Gianforte today urged Congress to address the nationwide shortage of prescription drugs.

In a letter to congressional leaders, the governors raised concern with the increased frequency and severity of prescription drug shortages and the lack of federal action to address it.

“As an elected member of Congress, we know that you take the health of your constituents and the American people seriously. We, as Governors of our states, have a responsibility to our citizens’ health, as well,” the governors wrote. “A widespread and long-lasting shortage of critical drugs has been impacting the United States of America for years. Many of the most used prescription drugs in the country are facing extensive shortages – drugs like albuterol, amoxicillin, and chemotherapy drugs. Too often, there is no good explanation for why.”

Outlining seven policy solutions, the governors called on Congress to champion legislation that would increase transparency, affordability, and dependability in the drug manufacturing process and ultimately increase supply.

“The FDA and medical companies are currently restricted by federal law regarding their transparency policies. Congress must grant additional authorities that allow more transparency throughout the drug manufacturing process,” the governors wrote.

Bringing transparency to prescription drug pricing is a key element of the governor’s Montana Comeback Plan.

The governors’ letter may be viewed here.

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