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    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
    December 20, 2005

    CONTACT:
     Pamela Causey 202-216-8378/202-236-2123
    Kim Wright 202-216-8414

    ~ 4 Million Seniors ~ One Voice ~No Privatization ~

    “Americans deserve better than a budget that protects drug manufacturers and the managed care industry while seniors, families and the poor bear the brunt of Congress' misplaced priorities.  With seemingly Scrooge-like chutzpah, Congress' gift to the American people this season may be $40 billion in cuts to programs that serve millions in need while safeguarding another big tax cut for the country's wealthiest citizens.”
    -- Barbara B. Kennelly, President/CEO

    Letter to Senate Urges Rejection of Budget Bill

    The President and CEO of the National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, on behalf of its 4.6 million members and supporters, today sent a letter to the Senate urging members to reject the budget reconciliation conference report.  This bill forces seniors who live on fixed incomes to absorb a disproportionate share of budget cuts while drug companies and many health care providers are spared any significant impact.

    Following are just a few of the provisions harmful to America 's seniors which are outlined in the letter:

    • States can charge premiums and higher co-payments for Medicaid benefits and also cut benefits, limiting or eliminating coverage for services that federal law now requires.
    • Severe changes to Asset Transfer provisions which make it increasingly difficult for seniors with legitimate needs to qualify for long-term care services under Medicaid.
    • Senate language to remove the $10 billion PPO “slush fund” was omitted in this conference report. Given the high participation rate of PPO's in Medicare Part D, there is no need to spend these needed Medicare dollars to lure PPO participation.

    The National Committee supports deficit reduction. However, these proposed cuts target those least able to bear the burden while at the same time Congress is preparing to spend those savings on tax cuts primarily for the wealthy.  The full text of the NCPSSM letter to the Senate is available here.

    The National Committee, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization acts in the interests of its membership through advocacy, education, services, grassroots efforts and the leadership of the Board of Directors and professional staff. The work of the National Committee is directed toward developing better-informed citizens and voters.