Reps. Veasey, Rose, Morelle Introduce Bill to Lower Prescription Drug Costs for Seniors
Congressmen’s proposal would use savings from Medicare drug negotiations to lower their drug premiums and copays
WASHINGTON – Congressmen Marc Veasey (TX-33), Max Rose (NY-11) and Joe Morelle (NY-25), introduced legislation this week that would use savings from Medicare prescription drug negotiations to lower Medicare Part D costs for low-income seniors.
H.R. 4620, the More Help for Seniors Act of 2019, would raise the income limits for eligibility under the Medicare Part D low-income subsidy program, which would help low-income seniors and individuals with disabilities afford needed medications by lowering copays and premiums for Medicare Part D.
"Older Americans across Texas are being hurt everyday by the skyrocketing price of prescription drugs," Congressman Veasey said. "This legislation will help stop this epidemic and ensure that beneficiaries of the Medicare Part D program have access to the life-saving prescriptions they need. I am proud to join my colleagues to continue our promise to work for the people by making affordable health care a right for all Americans."
"Pharmaceutical corporations have been gouging prices and ripping off seniors for far too long," Congressman Rose said. "It's absurd that Medicare is prohibited from negotiating lower costs, which is why we're fighting to make that right—and the savings made should be put right back into helping seniors on Medicare Part D. It's time to start putting Congress back on the side of seniors, not big Pharma."
"Our nation is facing an alarming crisis as the cost of prescription medication continues to rise, placing a dangerous burden on families and older Americans," Congressman Morelle said. "I'm proud to partner with Reps. Rose and Veasey to take action and help ensure those who rely on Medicare have access to the life-saving medication they need. I am grateful to my colleagues for their leadership on this important issue and look forward to continuing to advance policies that help make healthcare more affordable for everyday Americans."
Seniors are living on modest incomes—the median income for Medicare beneficiaries is just over $26,000. Out-of-pocket costs can force seniors and individuals with disabilities to choose between food, heating, and needed medications. This legislation would expand access to programs that help lower these out-of-pocket costs for drugs.
This bill has support from consumer advocacy groups, including the National Council on Aging, Medicare Rights Center, and Justice in Aging.
Bill text HERE.