FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 10, 2006
CONTACT: William Tranghese (202) 225-5601

STATEMENT OF CONGRESSMAN NEAL
ON THE MAY 15 PRESCRIPTION DRUG ENROLLMENT DEADLINE

"Nearly half of Medicare beneficiairies don't know that May 15 is the deadline for enrolling without penalty in a prescription drug plan.

Many seniors and people with disabilities in westren Massachusetts are unaware about the stiff and unfair penalties they will pay if they miss the deadline and enroll later.

I strongly believe the May 15 deadline should be extended to December 31 and that penalties during this period should be eliminated.

President Bush should give seniors a fair chance to understand this complex and confusing program," said Congressman Richard E. Neal.

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