On the recordMarch 24, 2010
Mr. President, the CLASS Act is a voluntary, self-funded insurance program, with enrollment for people who are presently employed. There are no taxpayer dollars involved whatsoever. The statement that the Senator referred to was made before we made sure it was paid for. It is all paid for. In fact, the Senator from New Hampshire in our committee offered an amendment that made sure it was fully funded for 75 years. The Congressional Budget Office has certified this will be solvent for 75 years. Plus, it will save taxpayers money. By letting people put some money aside, so if they become disabled they can stay at home rather than going to a nursing home, we save Medicaid dollars. This saves taxpayer dollars from paying more into Medicaid in the future. Mr. President, I raise a point of order that the Thune amendment violates section 310(D)(2) of the Congressional Budget Act. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from South Dakota.
