Statement of Senator Russ Feingold On the Latest Regarding the Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit

Statement of Senator Russ Feingold On the Latest Regarding the Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit

"In the three weeks since it was launched, the Medicare prescription drug benefit has resulted in frustration, confusion, expensive medications, and sometimes no medications at all for many senior and disabled citizens. These problems are potentially life-threatening and they need to be fixed immediately.

Governor Doyle came to the aid of Medicare beneficiaries when the federal government would not by enacting emergency provisions. I am extremely disappointed to hear that Secretary Leavitt and the administration are still refusing to give full reimbursement for funds that were spent out of a tight state budget. This refusal is unacceptable and I will work to pass legislation that would provide states like Wisconsin with emergency reimbursement funding when the Senate returns to session next week.

Over the past two years, I have repeatedly tried to fix some of the problems with this confusing and badly flawed program and I will continue these efforts."

http://feingold.senate.gov/~feingold/statements/06/01/20060120.html