Show-Me State Times

U.S. Senators Josh Hawley and Jeanne Shaheen have introduced a new piece of legislation aimed at ending federal subsidies for pharmaceutical advertising. The proposed No Handouts for Drug Advertisements Act seeks to amend the current law, which permits pharmaceutical companies to claim business deductions on direct-to-consumer advertising.

According to the senators, this practice allows pharmaceutical companies to use taxpayer money to subsidize their advertisements, leading to increased healthcare costs. It also encourages patients to request brand-name drugs that may be more expensive than other effective alternatives.

Senator Hawley stated, "For too long, Big Pharma has used our tax dollars to fund ads that push their products directly on patients. That needs to end." He emphasized the need for consumers to make informed health decisions without corporate influence.

Senator Shaheen echoed these sentiments, highlighting the financial burden on taxpayers in her state who face rising costs for essential medications. "It’s flat-out wrong that drug companies receive huge tax breaks for running ads directly to consumers," she said.

The bill proposes changes to the Internal Revenue Code by disallowing tax deductions related to direct-to-consumer advertising of prescription drugs and compounded medications. It also defines such advertising as targeting the general public through various media channels including television and social media.

The full text of the bill is available for public review.