Connecticut accuses Rite Aid of deceptive price increases

Hartford, Conn. Connecticut state officials are issuing subpoenas to Rite Aid Corp., accusing the pharmacy of falsely blaming price increases on state law.

Gov. M. Jodi Rell says she directed the Department of Consumer Protection to issue the subpoena. She says the Harrisburg, Pa., company needs to explain the reasons for the price increases.

Rell and Attorney General Richard Blumenthal say Rite Aid falsely told customers it was required by state law to raise prices in its discount drug program.

Rite Aid said it believes it has not violated any laws and intends to cooperate with Blumenthal and the Department of Consumer Protection.

Rell also asked the Department of Social Services to meet with Rite Aid to seek an end to changes in Rite Aid's discount program.