The Public Record
John B. Breaux is a former United States Senator from Louisiana, serving from 1996 to 2005. A member of the Democratic Party, Breaux previously held a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1972 to 1987. During his time in the Senate, he was known for his work on health care, tax reform, and energy policy. Breaux played a significant role in the passage of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 and was involved in various bipartisan efforts throughout his career.
I am trying to resolve this point. It is not irresolvable. You suggest that the Department of Labor comes up with an approved list of independent external review people. It could be several groups or several individuals who would be in a…
Back on the point, I am glad we are having this discussion on trying to narrow the differences. Back to the external review panel, we both agree, if it goes to an external review panel for a decision of whether something is medically…
I am trying to nail down this point on the independent review. I am trying to do this one point at a time because we have so many points out there. It is my understanding both our bills have the HMO paying for the independent reviewers…
Let me answer it with a question. Does that language prohibit the HMO from paying the salaries of the independent reviewers? Is that not influencing the independent reviewers? If the HMO, under your bill, pays for the services of the…
But it says you can't influence the independent reviewer. Under your bill, the HMOs are paying the salaries for the services of the reviewer. Is that not influence?
The issue is, this should not be an insurmountable task for us to reach agreement on how we select the people who are going to do it. Somebody has to make the selection. I don't know that you have another creature out there who goes out…
I agree with the principle, but who makes the selection? That is why I used the word ``creature.'' What entity picks the group the HMO has to contract with?
I am honored to join today Senator Kerry on the occasion of Commander Thomas Richey's retirement from the United States Coast Guard. Senator Kerry and I both serve on the Oceans and Fisheries Subcommittee, and in fact we have sat next to…
I am honored to reintroduce today, along with my colleagues Senators Jeffords, Graham, Chafee, and Levin, the ``Historic Homeownership Assistance Act of 2001''. This bill will provide the necessary incentive needed to help preserve…
This amendment simply takes $70 billion off the tax cut which is now at approximately a level of $1.275 trillion. It says that $70 billion is going to be used for education purposes, and the purpose is to fund the Individuals with…
I might just take a minute in opposition to the Senator's amendment. I have a great deal of respect for her, but I suggest the budget authorization doesn't do any of those things. The respective committees that are going to be authorizing…
I rise to make some comments in general terms but directing my comments to the amendment I introduced today on behalf of myself and Senators Nelson, Landrieu, Carnahan, Chafee, Lincoln, Bayh, Torricelli, and Jeffords. The amendment…