Gus Bilirakis: “Mr. Speaker, it has been an honor for me to work with the gentleman, members of the budget conference and Committee on…”

“Mr. Speaker, it has been an honor for me to work with the gentleman, members of the budget conference and Committee on Commerce and Committee on Ways and Means members on historic legislation which will balance our Nation's budget for the first time, the first time since Neil Armstrong walked on the Moon, and at the same time reduce taxes, save Medicare and Medicaid, provide education and other family incentives and opportunities, and guarantees $24 billion to provide better health care for children. In recent years many have said that we could not balance the budget and also reduce taxes. We have done that and more. Regarding Medicare, we have saved the program for the next 10 years without hurting beneficiaries in any way. In fact, this legislation contains many worthwhile changes which greatly benefit the elderly. Our legislation gives seniors a choice of coverage through the new Medicare Plus Program, provides consumer protections, addresses fraud and abuse, and adds additional preventive health benefits. It also creates a commission to make recommendations on how Medicare could be preserved for future generations.”