Levin, Pallone, Schakowsky, Matsui Mark 50th Anniversary of Medicare and Medicaid

WASHINGTON, DC – Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Sander Levin (D-MI), Energy and Commerce Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), and the co-chairs of the Congressional Task Force on Seniors Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) and Rep. Doris Matsui (D-CA) today issued the following statement ahead of the 50th anniversary of Medicare and Medicaid.

The members also introduced a resolution to commemorate the remarkable impact that Medicare and Medicaid have had on the lives of millions of Americans since their enactment and to recommit to strengthening and protecting these programs.

"Making sure all Americans have access to high-quality health care is not only essential to our collective success, but is also an integral part of what defines us as a nation – that we care for one another, lend a helping hand in times of need, and build a support system that people can count on. After hardworking Americans pay into a program year after year with a commitment that comprehensive health care will be there for them when they retire, we should uphold that promise. And when families face tough financial situations and struggle to make rent or put food on the dinner table, they shouldn't have to worry about what would happen if suddenly someone got sick or was injured.

"For half a century, Medicare and Medicaid have provided health coverage to seniors, low-income families, and people with disabilities, enabling millions of Americans to lead healthy lives and receive the care they need. We have an obligation to come together to build on the successes of past reforms with these vital programs and continue to strengthen and expand Medicare and Medicaid so they can provide the coverage individuals have earned and need for generations to come."