Steve Israel: “this past September I was contacted by officials in the two counties that I represent urging me to do everything I could…”

“this past September I was contacted by officials in the two counties that I represent urging me to do everything I could to extend the Qualifying Individual-1, QI-1, program. This important program gives Federal money to State Medicaid programs to pay for the Part B premium for low-income seniors. They stressed extending the program is particularly important this year as the Medicare Part B premiums are increasing over 17 percent from $66.60 to $78.20. Medicare Part B is theoretically voluntary, but in reality is necessary for any senior who does not have some form supplemental insurance. Medicare Part B covers outpatient services, doctor visits, and other health care services not covered by the Hospital Insurance component of Medicare Part A. Unfortunately, seniors must pay a premium for Medicare Part B. Low-income seniors live on very tight budgets. If Congress allowed this program to expire, there would be a number of low-income seniors who would have to decide if the monthly $78.20 would be better spent on food rather than on their health care premium. I responded to local officials by introducing legislation that would extend this program for another year. My legislation is identical to the Senate bill that we are voting on today. It extends this vital program for another year, and I am proud to have sponsored it in the House.”