A study released in early July by the AARP Public Policy Institute noted that prescription drug prices rose nearly three times the rate of inflation in the first three months of this year.  If the study's results hold true in 2006 when the Medicare prescription drug benefit starts, how can seniors stay ahead of the curve when the Part D prescription drug benefit will consume most of their Social Security checks?

The 2003 Medicare drug law failed to include a provision to protect retirees from cuts in benefits should their Part D premium increases exceed their Social Security COLA.  Without legislation correcting this oversight, millions may see a large percentage of their COLA eliminated or greatly reduced by increases on Part D premiums, leaving beneficiaries with limited resources to afford necessities like food and rent.

Over 25 percent of Arkansas’ retired workers that receive Social Security benefits are in the Fourth Congressional District.  For this reason, I signed onto the "Social Security COLA Protection Act of 2004” before Congress adjourned for its annual August congressional work period.  H.R. 4910 will guarantee Social Security beneficiaries retain at least 75 percent of their Social Security COLA each year, regardless of increases in Part D premiums. 

The partisan 2003 Medicare drug law has resulted in much confusion and negative consequences since its passage.  Rest assured, as your United States Representative, I will continue to fight to protect Social Security COLA benefits and to correct the negative impact of the Medicare drug law.

The Fire Operations and Firefighter Safety Program includes training, wellness and fitness, firefighting equipment, personal protective equipment, and modifications to fire stations and facilities.  The following departments have been awarded grants: 

First District: 

 ·        Mount Pleasant Fire Department; Mount Pleasant, AR - $17,280 for Operations and Firefighter Safety 

 ·        Calico Rock Volunteer Fire Department; Calico Rock, AR - $14,007 for Operations and Firefighter Safety 

Second District: 

·        Gum Springs Volunteer Fire Department; Searcy, AR - $33,396 for Operations and Firefighter Safety 

·        Cherry Hill Volunteer Fire Department; Perryville, AR - $54,000 for a Firefighting Vehicle 

·        Williams Junction Volunteer Fire Department; Perryville, AR - $19,350 for a Firefighting Vehicle 

·        North Pulaski Fire Protection District 15; Jacksonville, AR - $75,690 for Operations and Firefighter Safety 

·        Tri-Community Fire Department; Austin, AR - $162,000 for a Firefighting Vehicle 

Third District: 
          Knoxville Fire Department; Knoxville, AR - $78,354 for Operations and Firefighter Safety 

 Fourth District 

 ·        Stephens Fire Department; Stephens, AR - $148,500 for a Firefighting Vehicle }