This week Rep. Brad Schneider (D-IL) introduced a House companion to the Senate Medicare Extra Rx HELP Act (S. 691, H.R. 4583) introduced by Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA) in March 2019. The bill would expand Part D Low Income Subsidy/ Extra Help by eliminating the asset test, streamlining program administration, and providing full benefits to those living on the edge of poverty.
The Center for Medicare Advocacy has expressed support for Sen. Casey’s bill in the past, including in the Center for Medicare Advocacy’s June 6, 2019 comments on Part D improvements to the House Ways and Means and Energy and Commerce Committees in response to draft legislation. Stating that “[t]o ensure that all seniors with limited income have access to LIS, we recommend Congress eliminate the program’s asset test and extend $0 premiums, $0 deductibles and fixed copays to Medicare beneficiaries under 200% FPL, as outlined in the Medicare Extra Rx HELP Act (S. 691) introduced by Sen. Casey.” The Center for Medicare Advocacy supports the House companion bill expanding LIS to more low income beneficiaries.
- Press Release Announcing the Bill: https://schneider.house.gov/media/press-releases/schneider-kelly-introduce-legislation-help-low-income-seniors-afford
October 3, 2019 – K. Kertesz