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Rep. Billy Tauzin, who was instrumental in passing the new
Medicare prescription drug law, has resigned from his powerful
position of chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee
and is considering taking a new position as head of the lobbying
operation of the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers
of America, or PhRMA.
Watchdog groups have expressed concerns over a potential
conflict of interest. Tauzin was deeply involved in making
legislation involving drug benefits and the groups are concerned
that he was having discussions about his potential new job
while still heading a committee that crafts legislation for
the same industry.
PhRMA represents major drug manufacturers such as Eli Lilly
and Co. and Merck & Co., and Tauzin has acknowledged interest
in the job.
The
Desert Sun February 4, 2004
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