Frank Lautenberg: “this amendment is a fast-track ticket to deep cuts in Medicare and Medicaid. It would essentially create a cap for these…”

“this amendment is a fast-track ticket to deep cuts in Medicare and Medicaid. It would essentially create a cap for these and other essential mandatory programs like the Medicare and Medicaid. Mr. President, we ought not punish the people who are on Medicaid or Medicare just because these programs grow faster than a particular rate. Sometimes growth in these programs could be good. For example, the first reconciliation bill includes money to recruit 3 million uninsured Medicaid-eligible children to sign up for the program. If this happens, obviously Medicaid spending is going to increase. But the question is, What do we want to do? Do we want to take care of those kids or don't we? This would not be a good reason to cut the program. This is a dangerous gimmick. We can balance the budget without it. Furthermore, we ought not accept an amendment that could force quick, drastic cuts in Medicare and Medicaid. I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment to protect Medicare and Medicaid.”