November 8, 2016 Ballot Prop. 61

Proposition 61: Drug Price Standards


Official Results

Available once the California Secretary of State has certified the election. This can take up to 3 weeks or more.

Yes votes: 6,254,342 (46.8%)
No votes: 7,109,642 (53.2%)

Prohibits state from buying any prescription drug from a drug manufacturer at price over lowest price paid for the drug by United States Department of Veterans Affairs. Exempts managed care programs funded through Medi–Cal. Fiscal Impact: Potential for state savings of an unknown amount depending on (1) how the measure's implementation challenges are addressed and (2) the responses of drug manufacturers regarding the provision and pricing of their drugs.

Pro/Con Statements

ProCon
Proponents say that Proposition 61 fights back against drug company price-gouging. They believe that the measure will make drugs far more affordable for consumers who pay unreasonable costs for necessary medication.
Opponents claim that Proposition 61 does not cover many needy Californians and could jeopardize the special pricing that the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs receives. They also say that the measure will result in a costly bureaucracy that will interfere or delay patient access to medication.
SupportersOpponents