[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 149 (2003), Part 22]
[House]
[Page 29982]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




     IN SUPPORT OF CONFERENCE REPORT ON MEDICARE MODERNIZATION BILL

  (Mr. SULLIVAN asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. SULLIVAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the conference 
committee report on the Medicare prescription drug coverage bill. This 
long-awaited legislation will provide a tangible, real and meaningful 
benefit to American seniors.

                              {time}  1015

  Senior Americans are tired of the talk. It is time for action. This 
bill will put a drug discount card in their hands in May, 2004; and it 
will help them save between 15 and 25 percent right off the bat. It 
also provides structure for Medicare. It includes an affordable 
deductible and catastrophic coverage, in responsible manner, to help 
the neediest seniors. Those who currently have prescription drug 
coverage can keep their coverage because this plan is voluntary. This 
is reasonable legislation that will not only improve and prolong lives 
of our seniors but will do the same for the Medicare program.
  Provisions for reimportation are in this legislation, ensuring safety 
and accountability. And it also includes an update for oncology drugs 
that is critical to cancer patients nationwide.
  In conclusion, I would remind my colleagues that this bill provides 
structure; helps seniors get the prescription drugs they need when they 
need them by putting a discount card in their hands; is voluntary; and 
is tangible. It ensures accountability for reimportation and, more 
importantly, makes Members accountable to their constituents. I urge my 
colleagues to vote for H.R. 1.

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