WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representative Pete Stark (D-CA), Ranking Democrat on the Ways and Means Health Subcommittee, today cited CMS’ latest Medicare Part D enrollment numbers as additional evidence that the Republican prescription drug bill is unnecessarily confusing, complex, and costly. Nearly 16 million Americans, or more than 36 percent of all Medicare beneficiaries, remain without coverage.

“The Bush administration and Congressional Republicans consider 16 million Americans without prescription drug coverage a victory,” said Representative Stark. “I consider it a tragedy. Every beneficiary deserves a comprehensive prescription drug benefit. Unfortunately, the Republican drug bill makes it excessively difficult for seniors and people with disabilities to enroll and secure the medications they need.”

“The latest numbers should come as no surprise,” Stark continued. “For months, seniors and people with disabilities have complained about a confusing enrollment process. As a result, only seven million Medicare beneficiaries have voluntarily signed-up for the benefit since enrollment began in mid-November. Don’t be fooled by CMS’ ‘fuzzy math,’ the vast majority of those enrolled were automatically signed-up.”

The nearly 16 million Americans without coverage have until May 15, 2006 to enroll. Those who miss the deadline, but enroll at the next possible opportunity for coverage starting in January 2007, will face a seven percent surcharge – for life.

“I call on the President to extend the May 15 enrollment deadline. Seniors and persons with disabilities should not be penalized for taking the time to learn which of the dozens of plans available may best suit their medical needs,” concluded Stark.