Canada

In December 2019, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Food and Drug Administration published a proposed rule which may allow states to import prescription drugs from Canada.

As part of the Scott Administration’s efforts to reduce health care costs for Vermonters, Governor Phil Scott and the Agency of Human services are seeking public input to inform the Administration’s planned comments on the federal rule and to understand the public’s views on importation of drugs from Canada.

Public comments are due to the Federal Administration by March 9, 2020.

The Agency of Human Services lead two public hearings: one in Burlington and one in Montpelier, to hear from stakeholders and members of the public to ensure the Administration’s comments reflect the expertise and feedback of those in Vermont’s health care system.

Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT) discusses progress on his preclearance bill, which would allow travelers coming to the United States to pass through U.S. Customs and Border Protection inspections prior to leaving Canada, improving border security and making for a smooth arrival in Vermont and other U.S. destination.