Lloyd Bentsen: “the Republican majority is getting ready to make dramatic changes in the Medicare program. I am concerned that the…”

“the Republican majority is getting ready to make dramatic changes in the Medicare program. I am concerned that the American people will not be included in this debate. The Republican majority has already missed the deadline to submit a budget. To balance the budget and save $1 trillion over 7 years will be a difficult task, I admit. However, the Republican majority should submit a plan which we all can review. The Republican majority makes promises without making the tough choices on how to achieve their goals. The Republican majority plans to cut Medicare by $300 billion over 7 years. These cuts will hurt seniors and result in higher costs. It is estimated that this will add $900 in out-of-pocket expenses for seniors in 2002. Democrats have been responsible in reforming Medicare. In the 1993 OBRA bill, Democrats voted to strengthen the trust fund and made it solvent for an additional 3 years. No Republican Members supported these important reforms. I am also concerned that any Medicare cuts will affect the health care industry. In my district, reduction in indirect medical education and direct medical education will have devastating consequences. I represent the Texas Medical Center which has two medical schools. Any medicare reductions in these payments will negatively impact the Houston area, and I will work vigorously to oppose these reductions.”