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Faster Generic Drugs: Ending Safety Patent Blocks on Competition.

This bill aims to speed up access to cheaper generic drugs by preventing companies from using patents related to drug safety procedures (REMS) to intentionally delay the market entry of generic versions. This change ensures that citizens can access lower-cost medications sooner, fostering greater competition in the pharmaceutical market.
Key points
Limits the ability of drug companies to block generic drug entry by patenting drug safety protocols (REMS).
If a patent dispute arises over REMS, the original drug manufacturer can only seek monetary damages, not an order to stop the sale of the cheaper generic alternative.
The goal is to increase competition for prescription drugs, which is expected to result in lower costs for patients.
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Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_574
Sponsor: Sen. Hassan, Margaret Wood [D-NH]
Process start date: 2023-03-01