[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 28 (Tuesday, March 6, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E290]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  EXEMPTING PRESCRIPTION DRUGS AND MEDICAL SUPPLIES DISPENSED BY THE 
DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS FROM INTEREST CHARGES AND ADMINISTRATIVE 
                                 COSTS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. PATSY T. MINK

                               of hawaii

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, March 6, 2001

  Ms. MINK. Mr. Speaker, I rise to introduce a bill that exempts 
prescription drugs and medical supplies that are dispensed by the 
Department of Veterans Affairs from DVA's interest charge and 
administrative cost charge.
  Under current law, the Department of Veterans Affairs charges 
interest and administrative costs for any indebtness resulting from the 
provision of services and benefits to Veterans.
  The interest rate, set by the Department of the Treasury, is 6 
percent. The Department of Veterans Affairs has set the administrative 
rate at 50 cents per month. Veterans should not have to pay this 
interest charge or administrative collection cost. They should be 
responsible for the co-payment amount only.

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