Larson Holds Tele-Town Hall on Proposed GOP Medicare Cuts

WASHINGTON – Congressman John Larson (CT-01) held a telephone town hall today to inform thousands of senior citizens about the proposed Republican budget that would end Medicare as we know it, increase out-of-pocket costs for seniors and severely cut long-term care services.

"Seniors in our community need to be aware that the proposed Republican budget is an end to Medicare as we know it in this country." Congressman Larson said. "Today's call was an excellent opportunity to speak with seniors and hear from them directly as budget negotiations continue to move forward in Washington."

The proposed Republican budget, introduced by the chairman of the House Budget Committee Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI), offers a 10-year plan that would significantly cut Medicare to reduce the deficit. Additionally, under the Republican plan seniors would see the "donut hole" reopen, causing prescription drug costs to skyrocket.

"Tackling our national deficit should be a legitimate goal of this Congress and deserves attention during budget negotiations," said Congressman Larson. "However, to balance the budget on the backs of our senior citizens and poor is completely unacceptable when corporations are still receiving tax breaks for shipping American jobs overseas and oil companies continue to receive massive subsidies."

The call attracted 5,905 total seniors with over 225 questions submitted.

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