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    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
    May 16, 2006

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

    ~ 4.6 Million Seniors ~ One Voice ~No Privatization ~

    Former Congresswoman Kennelly Statement on Senate Legislation to Eliminate Late Enrollment Penalty

    “There are millions of seniors who are encouraged knowing that they may not be penalized for declining to enroll in a prescription drug plan that looks like voodoo medicine. I congratulate the bipartisan group of senators for listening to senior's concerns and introducing legislation to eliminate the late enrollment penalty for 2006. For those of us who have been advocating for fixes to this flawed drug law, this is a rewarding step in the right direction. However, there are other corrections to this law that must also be legislated in order to protect the best interests of seniors and the disabled.

    On behalf of the National Committee's 4.6 million members and supporters, I strongly urge Congress to extend the enrollment deadline to allow more time for beneficiaries to find their way through the maze of plans and enrollment information; to allow seniors to change plans at least once during the remainder of the covered benefit period; and to create a Medicare operated benefit in time for the 2007 enrollment to give beneficiaries the choice they truly want and deserve.”  -- Barbara B. Kennelly, President and CEO    

    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.