Huntsman was one of six U.S. governors who recently signed a letter requesting a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin.

The letter, dated Jan. 19, states: "While we understand Canadian concerns about becoming the 'drugstore' for the United States, we believe it is imperative that the Canadian government realize that the restriction of prescription drug supplies could mean the difference between life and death for many Americans."

Huntsman's signature is joined by those of the governors of Minnesota, Maine, Wisconsin, North Dakota and Kansas.

The letter is in response to news media reports earlier in the month that state Canadian Health Minister Ujjal Dosanjh is considering halting all Internet drug sales to the United States.

Under current practice, a prescription from a U.S. doctor is faxed to a Canadian doctor who reviews the patient's health history.

The Canadian doctor then signs and faxes the prescription to a so-called Internet pharmacy, which ships the drug.

Canadian officials say such sales endanger the Canadian drug supply, though they admit no shortages exist. The government also maintains it is unethical for doctors to sign prescriptions without examining patients.

Prescription drugs are cheaper in Canada because of its socialized health-care system.

Huntsman said Friday he wants to sit down with the prime minister "so that we could explore ways in which we could actually engage in more cross-border trading. . . . I don't know that that will ever come to fruition, but I do think it's something we need to look at."

mcanham@sltrib.com

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The Associated Press contributed to this report.