Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-First State Legislature

Regular Session of 2001

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Tourism and Intergovernmental Affairs, to which was referred S.R. No. 33 entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to urge the President and the U.S. Congress to address the problem of the high cost of prescription drugs for all Americans.

Testimony in support of this measure was received from the Executive Office on Aging and one individual.

Your Committee finds that drug cost is a critical issue for all Americans, and in particular for those without drug coverage and for seniors. For these populations, the choice may be between buying other necessities, such as food, or necessary prescribed medication.

Your Committee supports immediate action by the federal government to address this problem.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Tourism and Intergovernmental Affairs that is attached to this report, your Committee concurs with the intent and purpose of S.R. No. 33 and recommends its adoption.