This bill will correct a number of complex but significant problems that currently plague HCFA's coverage, coding and payment systems.

Most importantly, it will help ensure that Medicare beneficiaries have timely access to life-enhancing and life-saving medical advances.

I rise to re-introduce legislation similar to that which I sponsored in the 104th and 105th Congresses to extend the demonstration authority under the Medicare program for Community Nursing Organization (CNO) projects.

Mr. Speaker, it is important to recognize that the extension of this demonstration will not increase Medicare expenditures for care.

Frankly, in order to do all this analysis of the program, we need more time to evaluate the extensive data that has been collected.

I urge my colleagues to consider this bill carefully and join me in seeking to extend these cost-savings and health care-enhancing CNO demonstrations for another three years.

By demonstrating what a primary care oriented nursing practice can accomplish with enrollees who are elderly or disabled, CNOs are helping show us how to increase benefits, save scarce dollars and improve the quality of life for patients.

I ask us to support funding education in an evenhanded, fair way, that funds education all across America, not just to the President's friends.