Pelosi Statement on Medicare's 38th Anniversary

July 29, 2003

Washington, D.C. -- House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today in celebration of the 38th anniversary of Medicare:
"American seniors have affordable and guaranteed health care for one simple reason -- 38 years ago, Medicare was signed into law.

"On Medicare’s 38th anniversary, we should rededicate ourselves to strengthening Medicare and giving seniors a real prescription drug benefit that is affordable, guaranteed, and available to all.

"Sadly, Republicans have rammed through legislation that will not make prescription drugs affordable for seniors. In fact, it will leave seniors at the mercy of HMOs and big insurance companies.

"This was confirmed yet again today when the Joint Economic Committee reported that the Republican plan is so costly that seniors’ Social Security cost of living increase will be wiped out by Medicare premium increases in the Republican bill. This is even though the Republican bill has a 'coverage gap' so wide that 50 percent of seniors will fall into it, paying premiums even though they receive no benefit at all.

"To improve health care and retirement security, Democrats are fighting for a real Medicare prescription drug plan, one that will bring down drug prices and provide guaranteed benefits under Medicare."