WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), lead sponsor of the Drug Shortages Prevention and Quality Improvement Act (S. 2595) and the Medicare Dental Benefit Act of 2021 (S. 97), released the following statement Thursday after President Joe Biden called on Congress to take action on lowering prescription drug prices and health costs for Americans.

“There is no legitimate reason why so many prescription drugs cost so much, causing far too many Americans to need to choose between rent or groceries and life-saving drugs. President Biden is spot on. Congress needs to act. As we work to expand equitable access to necessary medications, it is essential that we also address the root causes of drug shortages. On Wednesday, Senate Democrats took the first step to make once-in-a-generation enhancements to Medicare’s benefits. Now is the time to expand dental coverage for adults, as we did for children, which also will save costs and save lives. Dental health is intertwined with overall health, particularly for those with chronic conditions, and if we can increase the access and affordability of dental care, it will pay dividends in the quality of health for millions.

“I look forward to working with the president and my colleagues to make this a reality and improve the health of our nation.”

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