    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (2000, Book I)]
    [April 4, 2000]
    [Pages 618-619]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Democratic Amendment to the Budget Resolution
    April 4, 2000

        Today the Senate begins its work on its budget and, in so doing,
    will lay out its investment and reform priorities for the FY 2001
    budget. The Senate Democrats, under the leadership of Senator Robb and Senator Daschle,
    will be offering an amendment to this budget resolution designed to put
    America's priorities in order. This amendment insists that we do first
    things first and modernize Medicare with an affordable, accessible, and
    voluntary Medicare

    [[Page 619]]

    prescription drug benefit for all seniors. Once we've done that, we can
    move forward with a sensible tax cut.
        I commend the supporters of this amendment because I believe it
    reflects good policy, the will of the American people, and addresses a
    long-standing unmet need. We should not be recklessly spending money on
    an excessive tax cut before we take action to ensure that all seniors
    have the potentially life-saving choice of a prescription drug benefit.
    It is my hope that every Member of the Senate will support this
    critically important amendment.