David Thomas: “the LoBiondo amendment to Section 221 of H.R. 5006, the ``Department of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education…”

“the LoBiondo amendment to Section 221 of H.R. 5006, the ``Department of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2005,'' would make a change to Medicare Part A payment policy, and thus falls within the sole jurisdiction of the Committee on Ways and Means. Legislating on an appropriation bill is a violation of House Rules XXI, and the Committee opposes attempts to legislate on appropriation bills. However, in this case, I have worked with Representatives LoBiondo, Lowey and Wamp to draft the amendment being offered today to ensure that the Committee's position is addressed. The Committee on Ways and Means has long been involved in this issue and is interested in ensuring that any rule relating to the classification of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals is properly implemented and enforced. The amendment is being offered with the understanding that it does not in any way prejudice the Committee with respect to the appointment of conferees or its jurisdictional prerogatives on this or similar legislation.”