Based on post-election interviews with key legislators, a November 16, 2002 Washington Post article outlined the prescription drug coverage most likely to be enacted by the new Congress, which convenes in January. The Post article said that the Republican-sponsored legislation will subsidize private insurers so that seniors, particularly those with lower incomes, will have access to prescription drugs at affordable prices. 

According to the article, which was written by Ceci Connolly, the Republican approach is strongly endorsed by the drug industry, which hopes to see significant additional revenues from the legislation. The article indicated that the pharmaceutical industry gave more than $16 million to two seniors advocacy groups - the United Seniors Association and 60 Plus - to help elect members of Congress who will support the Republican approach. 

The article said that, because both houses of Congress are controlled by the Republicans, they will face pressure from the White House to pass meaningful prescription drug legislation before the 2004 elections.

December 2002