I have joined in an effort to ensure that seniors, people with disabilities, and children who rely on Medicare and Medicaid can continue to receive care under these programs. 

As you may know, the Bush Administration recently proposed unprecedented cuts of nearly $200 billion to services that patients and communities rely on.  Medicare alone would see funding for hospital programs cut by $135 billion.

I recently joined other Senators in writing to the Senate Budget Committee, and asking that the proposed cuts in Medicare and Medicaid funding be rejected so that people who depend on these services will have assurance that they will continue to receive care.

Many people who rely on Medicare and Medicaid already are facing challenges, including rising pharmaceutical and specialized care costs and physicians who may decline to take new patients.  This is not the time to create new challenges by slashing the budget for these programs.  You can count on me to continue working to ensure that the people who need medical services the most can receive it.

Sincerely,

Barbara Boxer
United States Senator