Congressman Burgess Owens (District 4) visited Macey’s Murray and met with the AFS Pharmacy and Government Affairs Team. The group discussed several important matters to independent retailers, including pharmacy benefit manager reform, how independent retailers are doing all they can to keep prices competitive, and Anti-Trust with the Grocery Consumer Pricing Fairness Act.
“We are anxious to keep making refinements to state laws, in addition to requesting enforcement of the current laws that protect our pharmacies, “said Sarah Pettit, public affairs director. “We are networking with government leaders to advocate for meaningful reform.”
Owens proactively requested the tour, working with NACDS (National Association of Chain Drug Stores) to gain insights on the manipulative practices of pharmacy benefit managers.
“We’ve looked at laws in numerous states to narrow down what we want specifically included in our bill,” said Shawna Hanson, vice president of pharmacy, “Chris Sheard, our pharmacy operations manager, has been amazing at researching all the details and determining our needs. We have an incredible team and we’re looking forward to making an impact.” said Shawna.
Owens, who played 10 seasons in the NFL and won a championship with the Raiders in Super Bowl XV in 1980, requested that Shawna wear his Super Bowl championship ring.
“The ring was beautiful and, as an NFL fan, it was very exciting to see one in person,” said Hanson.
The team stressed the importance of independent retailers and pharmacists and the critical needs they provide to the communities we serve. Team members in attendance included Chris Sheard, Shawna Hanson, Paige Patterick and Sarah Pettit.