Michaud Statement on President’s Veto of Medicare Improvements Bill
Monday, July 14 2008
WASHINGTON, DC - Today, Congressman Mike Michaud issued the following statement after hearing news that President Bush vetoed H.R. 6331, the "Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008."  H.R. 6331 prevents the pending 10 percent payment reduction for physicians, enhances Medicare preventive and mental health benefits, improves and extends programs for low-income Medicare beneficiaries, and extends expiring provisions for rural and other providers.

"I am disappointed that the President vetoed this important bipartisan bill.  We have the votes in Congress to override this veto and I am hopeful that we can take it up as soon as possible.

"Signing this bill into law would ensure that Medicare beneficiaries are able to continue to see the doctors that they've grown to trust.  It would also lower annual out of pocket expenses for low-income individuals when Maine residents need it most.  In addition, the provisions to protect access to care in rural areas mark an important milestone in the health care arena.  By improving payments, this bill helps ensure that sole community hospitals, critical access hospitals, and ambulances can continue to provide much-needed services to Maine residents.  "

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