Alan Lowenthal: “118 million Americans--seniors, low- income families, the disabled--all rely on Medicare and Medicaid services in one…”

“118 million Americans--seniors, low- income families, the disabled--all rely on Medicare and Medicaid services in one way or another. These services guarantee benefits that give our Nation's most vulnerable peace of mind and an increased quality of life. Today, we proudly acknowledge almost five decades of Medicare and Medicaid services. While most service providers are honest and law- abiding, it has recently come to my attention that there are a few that have affected the delivery and integrity of services to the people who rely on these programs. Congress has the power to change that. Today, on the 48th anniversary of Medicare and Medicaid being signed into law, Congress must recommit itself to the safeguarding and strengthening of America's Medicare and Medicaid service systems. The promise of Medicare and the morality of Medicaid must never be compromised no matter how hard the political battles are. ____________________”