Congressman Carson Highlights 48th Anniversary of Medicare Being Signed into Law

Press Release

Today, Congressman André Carson marked the 48th anniversary of the enactment of Medicare, which was signed into law by President Lyndon Johnson on July 30, 1965.

"For decades, Medicare has ensured healthcare security for millions of seniors and people living with disabilities. It is a proud accomplishment for our nation and a testament to our commitment to those entering the twilight of life. I am committed to keeping Medicare strong and ensuring it remains a bedrock promise for future generations," Congressman Carson stated.

This spring, Speaker John Boehner and Republican House leaders once again passed a budget that transforms Medicare into a privatized voucher plan, increasing future health costs for seniors by thousands of dollars.

"As we mark the 48th anniversary of Medicare's enactment, I will stand with our seniors and recommit to rejecting plans that end Medicare as we know it," said Congressman Carson.

Democrats have been working to strengthen Medicare. The Affordable Care Act contains several provisions to improve Medicare and strengthen its solvency. The Act extends the life of the Medicare Trust Fund by nearly a decade. It also has created significant savings for many seniors by providing discounts on their drugs for those in the Medicare Part D "donut hole' coverage gap and also providing free Medicare coverage for key preventive services.

Since the Affordable Care Act was enacted, people with Medicare in Indiana's 7th Congressional District have saved $10.7 million on prescription drugs. In 2012 alone, 7,200 individuals in the district saved an average of $720 per enrollee. Furthermore, in 2012, 96,000 individuals with traditional Medicare achieved savings by using one or more free preventive services.

Congressman Carson went on to say, "Over the last 48 years, Democrats have fought to enact Medicare, protect Medicare and strengthen Medicare. We will not stop now."

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