Legal Case Summary

Assoc. for Accessible Medicine v. Brian Frosh


Date Argued: Wed Jan 24 2018
Case Number: 17-2166
Docket Number: 6282989
Judges:G. Steven Agee, James A. Wynn Jr., Stephanie D. Thacker
Duration: 45 minutes
Court Name: Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit

Case Summary

**Case Summary: Association for Accessible Medicine v. Brian Frosh** **Docket Number: 6282989** **Court:** United States District Court **Date Filed:** [Insert Filing Date] **Judge:** [Insert Judge's Name] **Background:** The case involves the Association for Accessible Medicine (AAM), a trade association representing the generic and biosimilar pharmaceutical industry, which has brought a lawsuit against Brian Frosh, the former Attorney General of Maryland. The AAM alleges that certain actions taken by Frosh, in his capacity as Attorney General, adversely affected the availability and affordability of generic medications in the state. **Key Issues:** 1. **Regulatory Authority:** The AAM claims that Frosh's enforcement of specific state laws and regulations creates barriers for generic drug manufacturers, thereby limiting consumer access to lower-cost medications. 2. **Preemption:** The lawsuit raises questions regarding federal preemption, as the AAM argues that the state actions conflict with federal laws governing pharmaceutical sales and marketing. 3. **Economic Impact:** The AAM contends that these actions have led to increased drug prices and reduced competition in the pharmaceutical market, violating principles that support accessible medication for all. **Arguments:** - **Plaintiff (AAM):** The Association argues that Frosh's enforcement actions undermine the intended benefits of the Drug Price Competition and Patent Term Restoration Act (Hatch-Waxman Act) and violate the Commerce Clause by imposing burdens on interstate commerce. - **Defendant (Brian Frosh):** Frosh’s defense may assert that his actions comply with state law, aimed at protecting consumers and promoting public health, and that they do not conflict with federal regulations. **Relief Sought:** The AAM seeks declaratory and injunctive relief, requesting the court to invalidate certain regulations and enforcement actions taken by Frosh that they believe infringe upon the rights of their members to operate freely in the market. **Current Status:** As of the last update, the court is reviewing motions filed by both parties. The outcome may have far-reaching implications for the generic drug industry and state-level regulatory practices concerning pharmaceuticals. **Conclusion:** This case highlights the ongoing tension between state regulatory efforts and federal pharmaceutical policies, particularly in the context of accessible medicine. The court's ruling could set a precedent regarding the extent of state authorities in regulating the pharmaceutical market and protecting consumer rights. **Note:** This is a hypothetical case summary based on the provided details and may not reflect actual events or outcomes. For accurate information, please refer to official court documents and legal analyses.

Assoc. for Accessible Medicine v. Brian Frosh


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