The industry’s biggest lobbying group spent another record-breaking amount last year.
This week, the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) reported on a disclosure form that the group spent about $27.5 million lobbying in Washington in 2018 — up from $25.43 million in 2017.
The bump comes as the industry faces mounting public criticism for drug prices and a slew of policy proposals from lawmakers to bring prices down. In the last few months alone, members of Congress have launched a committee to investigate pricing policies for 12 major drug companies; floated a bill to start a government-run generics manufacturing company; and raised the possibility of mandating that companies disclose the full list price of drugs in TV ads.
Despite PhRMA’s efforts, the industry suffered a setback earlier last year when new provisions were passed forcing pharma companies to pay for discounts given to patients who fall into a Medicare coverage gap.
PhRMA reported that its lobbying efforts last year focused on a push to reform the Patent Trial and Appeal Board, proposing support for an act focused on combatting opioid use disorder, and drug pricing policy issues such as biosimilar reimbursement, importation of cheaper drugs and more.
Read the full disclosure form.