Backers of drug-price proposal file new lawsuit against Ohio

COLUMBUS (AP) — Backers of an effort aimed at controlling prescription drug prices purchased by state agencies are suing Ohio’s elections chief in federal court.

Supporters, who include the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, claim they’ve met the state’s signature requirements to force lawmakers to consider the Ohio Drug Price Relief Act.

The proposed initiated statute is aimed at keeping state entities from buying drugs at prices higher than the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs pays.

Once sufficient petition signatures are verified, the proposal goes to the Legislature.

Secretary of State Jon Husted has asked for a re-review of the petitions after his office received a complaint.

The proposal’s backers have asked the Ohio Supreme Court to require Husted to certify the act. They are now asking the same of the federal court.