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Backers of Drug-Price Proposal Sue Ohio’s Elections Chief
By: Associated Press
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COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) – Backers of an effort aimed at controlling prescription drug prices purchased by state agencies are suing Ohio’s elections chief over their petition signatures.
Supporters, who include the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, say they’ve met the state’s requirements to force lawmakers to consider the Ohio Drug Price Relief Act. The proposed initiated statute is aimed at keeping state entities from buying drugs at prices higher than the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs pays.
Once sufficient signatures are verified, the proposal goes to the Legislature. Lawmakers have four months to act. Backers then could put it before voters.
Secretary of State Jon Husted (HYOO’-sted) says he’s received a complaint questioning the petitions. He’s asked local elections boards to further review them.
The lawsuit seeks to have the initiative certified and sent to lawmakers.