[Page H9956]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   ENSURING MEDICATION IS ACCESSIBLE

  (Mr. MORELLE asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, our Nation faces an alarming crisis: The 
cost of prescription drugs continues to rise, placing a dangerous 
burden on American families, especially our older citizens. That is 
why, this week, the House is taking action to lower the cost of 
lifesaving medication individuals need to survive by passing H.R. 3, 
the Elijah Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act.
  I am especially proud this landmark legislation will include a 
provision I authored with my colleagues, Congressman Rose and 
Congressman Veasey, to help reduce Medicare part D costs for low-income 
seniors.
  H.R. 3 will finally allow Medicare to negotiate drug costs, and our 
provision will ensure the cost savings go right back to supporting 
Medicare recipients by expanding access to programs that lower out-of-
pocket expenses for vulnerable adults and individuals with 
disabilities.
  We must continue working to improve our healthcare system, and this 
marks an important step forward in ensuring medication is accessible 
and affordable for everyday Americans.

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