Branson Added to List Of Radical Legislation Affecting Access To Over the Counter Drugs

Cold medicine an estimated 15,000,000 Americans use may not be available without a prescription due to what one group calls a "radical movement" to block access to nasal decongestants. In Branson over the counter medicine is outlawed due to a new law passed last year by Branson Alderman.

An effort to assist the United States DEA ( Drug Enforcement Agency)  Office of Diversion has drug manufactures reaching deep into their pockets implementing a digital tracking system available to law enforcement.

The expense, difficulty in accounting varying drug laws drafted by local authorities and strain on medical resources could prohibit access to essential medicine.

Branson initiated and implemented a proposal barring availability to over the counter drugs without a prescription raising the cost of Sudafed from $8.00 to $150.

Simultaneously, Branson's only regional medical center Skaggs Hospital started a mandatory upfront emergency room payment program. Services are limited without a minimum payment.

Branson's Mayor Raeanne Presley serves on both the Skaggs and Branson Board of Alderman. The conflict of interest has not limited Presley's discussion of several contracts between the entities.