Florida House passes bill for Canadian drug importation

Floridians could eventually gain access to cheaper Canadian prescription drugs under legislation the state House has sent to Gov. Ron DeSantis.

The GOP-led House voted 93-20 on Monday for the measure, which allows creation of a prescription drug importation program that would have to be approved by the federal government. The bill is a top priority for DeSantis.

U.S. consumers pay some of the highest prescription drug prices in the world, as much as 30% to 190% more than other western countries. Supporters say the bill would give Floridians a chance to enjoy some savings.

Opponents warn of risky counterfeit, contaminated, or ineffective drugs and that the program could prove costly to oversee and regulate.