RAMSTAD NAMED TO INFLUENTIAL HEALTH SUBCOMMITTEE

 WASHINGTON -- U.S. Rep. Jim Ramstad (R-MN) today was appointed to the influential Health Subcommittee of the Ways and Means Committee.

"I am grateful for this appointment because health care is so important to the people of Minnesota," said Ramstad. "Minnesota is a recognized leader in quality health care and innovation, and this new assignment means our state will now have a representative 'at the table' as critical health care issues are decided."

The Health Subcommittee has extensive jurisdiction over health care and Medicare issues.

"I look forward to working on the aggressive agenda for the 106th Congress outlined by the Subcommittee," said Ramstad. "We will work to ensure the long-term solvency of Medicare, continue oversight of recent reforms to the Medicare program and to the Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA), and improve the quality of the overall health care system."

Ramstad, who now ranks number 10 of 23 in seniority on the full Ways and Means Committee, will also remain on the Trade Subcommittee.

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