[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 95 (Wednesday, June 30, 1999)]
[House]
[Pages H5097-H5098]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                             TOP PRIORITIES

  (Ms. DeLAURO asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)

[[Page H5098]]

  Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, the President's proposal to strengthen 
Social Security and Medicare, provide prescription drug coverage for 
seniors, give middle class tax cuts and eliminate the Federal debt are 
well-rounded and thoughtful. Saving Social Security and Medicare and 
extending their solvency needs to be a top priority of this Congress. 
Prescription drug coverage for seniors is a critical part of any modern 
health program. Treatment with medication is cost effective when 
compared to treating late stage ailments with surgery or other in-
patient care. Our seniors who struggle every day for their prescription 
drugs should not have to choose between paying for food and paying for 
medication. A prescription drug benefit will prepare Medicare and our 
seniors' health care for the 21st century.
  Fortunately, we are in a position to accomplish these goals due to a 
strong economy and a once in a generation Federal surplus. Providing 
prescription drug coverage for seniors as well as providing tax relief 
for working families is sound and responsible. This opportunity must 
not be squandered; it must not be wasted. We need to provide for 
seniors for their future.

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