Kissell Challenges Hayes to Use Close Ties to President to Extend Medicare Deadline for Seniors

Press Release

Larry Kissell, high school teacher and Democratic nominee for Congress in North Carolina's 8th district, challenged Congressman Robin Hayes to use his self-described "close ties" to President Bush to extend the Medicare deadline today.

Robin Hayes voted for the Republican Medicare Prescription Drug Bill which was strongly supported by President Bush. Hayes' vote made sweeping changes to Medicare that will give billions of dollars to drug companies, while forcing seniors to accept annual increases in premiums and deductibles. Additionally, the new Medicare plan has no provision to avoid dramatic increases in prescription costs charged by drug companies.

"Robin Hayes has been there for President Bush, now it's time for him to call in a favor from the President. Hayes has been at President Bush's side when he needed him to support the bad trade deals that are ruining our local economies. Now it's time for Hayes to call in a favor and help extend the deadline for seniors to sign up for the Medicare Prescription Drug Card," said Kissell.

Monday May 15th is the deadline for seniors to sign up for new Medicare prescription drug plan. Many have complained about the complex government paperwork that must be filled out in order to take advantage of the new benefit.

Larry Kissell agrees with many Democrats who have been opposed to the new plan because there is no provision for negotiating drug costs for seniors who sign up for the program. Despite his concerns with the new Medicare plan, Larry Kissell wants to make sure that those who want to sign up have an adequate chance to review the forms in order to make an informed decision.

"The truth is that the new Medicare Part D Prescription Drug program is a golden parachute for drug companies and HMO's. If Congress won't extend the deadline, they will be creating a 'Privatization Tax' which requires seniors to pay an increased monthly fee once the deadline passes. I don't agree with this approach, but it's the only program we have right now," said Kissell.

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