Congressional Research Service Says Health Law Could Allow Viagra For Sex Offenders
Roll Call reports that the Congressional Research Service has concluded that sex offenders could get federally subsidized Viagra under the new health reform law.Sen. Tom Coburn requested the CRS review the new health law to see if provisions would allow such drug disbursements. Coburn tried to change a health reconciliation bill on the Senate floor to outlaw sex offenders from getting government-subsidized sexual enhancement drugs, but was rebuffed by Democrats during the fast-paced vote on amendments. "According to the CRS, under existing rules there are no prohibitions against providing erectile dysfunction drugs to rapists, pedophiles or other types of sex offenders. The report also said that 'a convicted rapist, child molester, or other sex offender who is not incarcerated would not appear to be excluded from enrolling in a qualified health plan offered through an American Health Benefit Exchange in their state solely because of that conviction.'" Democrats dismissed the amendment and subsequent letter as a political ploy, and a spokesman for Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said Coburn should offer legislation to deal with the issue "instead of issuing a press release" (Stanton, 4/7). This is part of the Morning Briefing, a summary of health policy coverage from major news organizations. Sign up for an email subscription.
