The CBC "Message to America" is distributed nationwide to the American Urban Radio Network's (AURN) affiliate stations.

WHO:       U.S. Congresswoman Corrine Brown (D-FL)

WHEN:     Saturday, April 29, 2006; 12:06 p.m. EST

WHERE:   American Urban Radio Network Affiliate Stations

Congresswoman Brown is expected to deliver the following remarks:

Hello, I am Congresswoman Corrine Brown of Florida's third congressional district. I am here today to discuss the importance of understanding Medicare Part D, the prescription drug benefit plan.

The importance of health and proper prescription drug coverage cannot be overstated. A solid understanding of the Medicare Prescription Drug Plan is extremely important for everyone, especially for seniors and their loved ones who can help to choose the best plan that suites their needs.

Indeed, the new prescription drug benefit is the biggest change to Medicare since the program was created back in 1965. This added benefit will change the way about 30 million Americans pay for their medication. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most confusing government plans ever launched.

Too many people have still not signed up, while others are having a lot of trouble understanding this complicated plan. Not only is picking a plan difficult, but the drop dead deadline of May 15 makes no sense. I've been an elected official for 25 years and I have never seen a program that penalizes somebody for the rest of their life if they don't sign up right away.

I know this process is very confusing. If you have questions about signing up for a plan, you can call a Medicare counselor at: 1-800-MEDICARE.? Let me repeat that number, that's 1-800-633-4227.

There are severe penalties if you miss the May 15 deadline. What will happen is that you will have to wait until the next open enrollment period for coverage starting in January, plus pay a one percent per-month penalty for missing the deadline.

That means at a minimum the premium will be six percent higher -- not just next year, but always. This factor, of course, makes signing up on time and understanding the program all the more important.

For all of the seniors out there listening, I plead with you, if this Congress fails to act, make sure that you sign up for a plan before May 15. And I repeat, if you need assistance you can get answers to all of your questions by calling a Medicare counselor at 1-800-MEDICARE. Let me repeat that number, 1-800-633-4227.