WASHINGTON - Ways and Means Ranking Member Sander Levin (D-MI) and Health Subcommittee Ranking Member Pete Stark (D-CA), commenting today on the 45th anniversary of Medicare’s launch, vowed to fight Republican efforts to take away the vital security the program has provided millions of Americans.
Rep. Sander Levin (D-MI), Ways and Means Ranking Member: “For almost half a century, Medicare has brought peace of mind to millions of seniors who no longer have to worry about being one illness away from financial ruin. The Republican plan to end Medicare would not only double seniors’ health care costs by 2022, it would add enormous insecurity to families at a time when they need it most. When it comes to rising health care costs, Medicare is part of the solution, not the problem. Now more than ever we must fight plans to destroy this vital program and ensure that Medicare is here for future generations."
Rep. Pete Stark (D-CA), Ways and Means Health Subcommittee Ranking Member: "Together with Social Security, Medicare is one of the twin pillars of retirement security for tens of millions of Americans. As we prepare to celebrate our nation's independence, it is fitting to also acknowledge the health and financial independence that Medicare has provided to so many American families over almost five decades. It seems that 45 years of Medicare's efficient, life-saving guarantee is 45 years too long for today's Republicans, who are intent on reducing the deficit on the backs of seniors and people with disabilities." #
