[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 24 (Wednesday, February 13, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E185]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 INTRODUCTION OF H.R. 5268, TO PROVIDE A TEMPORARY INCREASE IN FEDERAL 
  MEDICAID ASSISTANCE PERCENTAGE UNDER THE MEDICAID PROGRAM TO STATES

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                          HON. JOHN D. DINGELL

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 13, 2008

  Mr. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, last week I, with my colleagues 
Representatives Frank Pallone and Peter King, introduced H.R. 5268, 
legislation that would provide immediate fiscal relief to States 
through Medicaid. The States of our Nation and the healthcare safety 
net are simultaneously facing a crisis. This is not the time for the 
Federal Government to turn its back. In addition to the broader 
economic stimulus package that we have approved, it is urgent that we 
provide States with resources to meet growing healthcare demands.
  In 2003, during the last economic downturn, the Federal Government 
provided fiscal relief to States by increasing Federal Medicaid 
payments during five quarters. The increased Federal Medicaid payments 
helped States meet increased demand for Medicaid coverage and 
successfully fought off many additional and more extensive reductions 
in healthcare for poor children, the disabled, pregnant women and the 
elderly who depend on Medicaid health coverage. If the economic 
downturn continues, States will once again be forced to deny people 
Medicaid coverage and or reduce Medicaid payments to healthcare 
providers unless some relief is provided.
  If we do not act, the decreased ability to provide health care could 
mean even more job losses, further exacerbating the economy. According 
to a 2005 study, for every $1 million of State funds invested in 
Medicaid, 33 new jobs and $1.23 million in new wages are generated in a 
year. In 2003, a Republican Congress and President agreed to the 
temporary increase in Medicaid payments. It was enacted through a 
number of bipartisan votes. We must once again come together to deliver 
as we did before. We need to move quickly to strengthen Medicaid, 
before the effects of a slowing economy cause people who need health 
care to he turned away.

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