U.S. Rep. Nick J. Rahall (D-WV) wants to extend the May 15, Medicare Part D prescription drug program deadline to January 1, 2007.

"I join my many Democratic colleagues in standing united on behalf of America's seniors," Rahall said. "Millions of America's seniors and people with disabilities want access to affordable lifesaving medications and instead they are facing a looming deadline as they attempt to navigate what is at best a confusing and complex program."

"Many seniors have yet to sign up for a drug program that works for them," Rahall said. "By extending the enrollment deadline we will help more than seven million seniors and people with disabilities avoid the Administration's prescription drug tax and higher premiums for life."

The Medicare Part D program was passed by Congress and signed into legislation by President Bush in 2003. Members are working to extend the enrollment deadline to January 2007 so that individuals have enough time to choose a plan that is best for them. Currently, the penalty for failing to sign up by May 15 is a 1 percent charge added to any monthly premium for every month that they miss the deadline -- for life. That means any seniors signing up for the program six months late would incur a 6 percent surcharge on their prescription drugs for the rest of their lives.

"Given the confusion and complexity of this program, a lifetime of penalties is a steep price for our seniors to pay," Rahall said. "Everyone should have the time and opportunity to make an informed choice about their health care coverage."

The Congressional Budget Office estimates the deadline could prevent up to 1 million seniors from enrolling nationwide.

"Many seniors have yet to sign up for a drug program that works for them," Rahall said. "By extending the enrollment deadline we will help more than seven million seniors and people with disabilities avoid the Administration's prescription drug tax and higher premiums for life."