FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 20, 2006

CONTACT: Brendan Daly/Jennifer Crider 202-226-7616

Pelosi: Seniors Need More Time to Sign Up For Confusing Bush Prescription Drug Program

Washington, D.C. – House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement in response to today’s announcement by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) that more than 30 million Medicare beneficiaries are receiving prescription drug coverage:

“Rather than playing games with the numbers and taking credit for seniors who already had prescription drug coverage, Democrats are focusing on helping the millions of seniors who are struggling to pay for lifesaving medications. 

“Approximately 50 percent of all seniors who previously did not have prescription drug coverage still have not signed up for a plan.  Today’s enrollment numbers highlight the need for the Administration to extend the May 15th deadline so that seniors have enough time to choose a prescription drug plan that works for them.  Otherwise, seniors will have to pay the price for this confusing and complex program when they are hit with the Bush prescription drug tax -- a 7 percent lifetime penalty for those who do not enroll by May 15.”

“ Democrats are united in presenting a New Direction for America, one that will make our nation as strong as its people, one that brings opportunity, security, and prosperity to all Americans. ”

Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi