Congressman Dave Reichert

Washington, DC, Nov 3 - Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-08) today expressed concern regarding AARP’s latest response to his inquiry into the potential hidden profit motive behind the organization’s vocal advocacy for a House health care proposal that contains nearly $500 billion in Medicare cuts affecting millions of seniors.
 
“I've reviewed AARP’s response defending their support for cuts to Medicare, and I am simply disappointed,” Reichert said. “Though AARP promises to represent seniors’ interests ‘in ways that are affordable and beneficial to them,’ they continue to dodge simple, straightforward questions -- questions about supporting cuts to member benefits, raising costs, and reducing choice for its members. I’m looking forward to meeting with them; perhaps this face-to-face discussion will shed some light on their support for this proposal."

Background:
 
On September 21, Reichert asked AARP to explain its support for the health care overhaul bill that would cut Medicare benefits, affecting millions of seniors. In public statements and a July meeting with Congressman Reichert, AARP advocated for H.R. 3200, which contains nearly $500 billion in Medicare cuts. Hundreds of constituents have written Reichert expressing their concerns with the proposed Medicare cuts. AARP responded but did not adequately address Reichert’s inquiry.
 
The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office predicts that 3 million seniors will lose their Medicare health plan coverage and 3 million fewer seniors will enroll in such a plan if H.R. 3200 becomes law. CBO has also predicted the policies contained in H.R. 3200 “could lead many plans to limit the benefits they offer, raise their premiums, or withdraw from the program.”
 
On October 1, AARP responded to Reichert’s inquiry. Because their response failed to answer the questions in his letter, Reichert sent a second letter to clarify lingering questions. AARP's response was again inadequate, therefore Reichert agreed to meet with AARP representatives on November 17.

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