Medical device manufacturers are hoping the government shutdown battle will help them shut down a 2.3 percent sales tax on medical devices. They are looking for help from their friends in Congress. The amendment to kill the medical device tax would save the industry $30 billion over the next ten years. A look at the records of the political action committees of the top medical device manufacturers show most are giving more contributions to Republicans than Democrats, so far in 2013. Many of these companies are involved in multiple issues before Congress. Johnson & Johnson's PAC has given $149,750 with 56% to Republicans. Novartis' PAC has given $117,000 with 51% to Republicans. Cardinal Health' PAC has given $108,500 with 78% to Republicans. Abbott Laboratories' PAC has given $98,500 with 78% to Republicans. Siemens' PAC has given $98,000 with 51% to Republicans. Bayer's PAC has given $98,000 with 67% to Republicans. Fresenius Medical Care's PAC has given $96,500 with 54% to Republicans. Allergan Inc.'s PAC has given $76,500 with 63% to Republicans. Boston Scientific's PAC has given $67,000 with 81% to Republicans. Medtronic's PAC has given $63,500 with 61% to Republicans. Covidien's PAC has given $54,000 with 61% to Republicans. (more…)
