News From Mollohan For Congress
Michael Oliverio's Dangerous Plan for Seniors
His "nice start" would slash billions from Social Security, Medicare and Older Americans Act programs
Congressman Alan B. Mollohan's campaign called on Michael Oliverio to release details about his plan to slash Social Security, Medicare, and other programs critically important to seniors in West Virginia.
"All we know is that he has indicated that he would cut billions from Social Security, Medicare and the Older Americans Act," said Pam Van Horn, Mollohan's campaign manager. "Clearly, this would cause tremendous hardship for West Virginia's seniors.
"Michael's plan would cut Social Security by more than $7 billion, but we do not know exactly what that would mean. Does he envision across-the-board cuts to every senior's monthly check?"
Oliverio's commitment to Social Security has also been called into question due to his role as State Chairman of the American Legislative Exchange Council, which backed President George Bush's attempt to privatize Social Security.
"Why is Michael Oliverio leading an organization that wants to gamble our retirement security on Wall Street?" asked Van Horn.
Oliverio's plan also would require a $4.5 billion cut from Medicare.
"Again, he doesn't tell us how he would achieve this drastic cut," said Van Horn. "Would it be an across-the-board reduction in doctor reimbursement rates which will make it even more difficult to find care in rural areas? Perhaps he would cut reimbursement altogether for some services? Would he decrease prescription drug benefits? He owes the voters, especially the seniors, of the First District an explanation."
Oliverio's plan would also cut millions from Older Americans Act programs that provide important nutrition, transportation and in-home services to seniors. Last year, West Virginia received $13.2 million for programs authorized under the Older Americans Act. Many senior centers would be unable to maintain services without the federal support.
Oliverio has suggested that these proposed cuts are, "a nice start", implying that he would favor additional cuts.
"We are all struggling in this economy and Michael Oliverio's plan would only make things worse for our seniors", concluded Van Horn.
