State Rep. Frank LaGrotta, D-10th, has joined a number of representatives who are calling for a statewide program that would allow Pennsylvanians to buy prescription drugs from approved pharmacies and wholesalers in Canada, the United Kingdom and Ireland.

LaGrotta said Pennsylvania has been invited to participate in I-SaveRx, a prescription buying program started by Illinois. Kansas, Wisconsin and Missouri also participate.

"The costs of prescription drugs and health care in general are rising faster than most people can keep up with," LaGrotta said. "Since the Bush administration has not provided a real solution that works for real people, we must make it a priority here in Pennsylvania.

"This program is working in other states and it will work here and we must allow it to work here."

LaGrotta is one of the sponsors of a resolution calling for Gov. Ed Rendell to enlist the state in I-SaveRx.

According to LaGrotta, information about I-SaveRx is available online at www.I-SaveRx.net.

State Rep. Brian Ellis, R-11th, has launched a new Internet Web site that provides legislative information and access to state resources.

Located at www.repellis.com, the site contains information about Ellis and his legislative activities in Harrisburg, state services that his offices can provide, updates on pending legislation, news in the state House of Representatives, and various state information.

Visitors also have access to a clearinghouse of commonly requested state forms such as birth certificate requests, motor vehicle registrations, and property tax and rent rebate applications.

A special 'Kids Corner' is also devoted to helping children learn about state government and history."