CASTRO STATEMENT ON THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF MEDICARE AND MEDICAID
Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20) released the following statement recognizing the 50th anniversary of the creation of Medicare and Medicaid:
"Fifty years ago today, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed Medicare and Medicaid into law, ensuring millions of vulnerable Americans would have access to affordable health care coverage. Seniors, individuals with disabilities, low-income communities, and working families are healthier and more financially secure because of these life-saving programs. Today, 55 million Americans are enrolled in Medicare, and 71 million Americans - including one in every three American children - have health insurance because of Medicaid. Texas' 20th District is home to nearly 90,000 Medicare enrollees and more than 150,000 Medicaid enrollees.
"Unfortunately, by being one of 20 states refusing to expand Medicaid, Texas is denying affordable care to more than a million individuals. It is my hope that the governor and other state officials reconsider their stance on this matter and extend coverage to children and families across the state who are in need.
"Medicare and Medicaid do more than keep America healthy - they allow millions of Americans to live with economic security and dignity. I have opposed previous Republican efforts to end Medicare as we know it, and I remain committed to strengthening both of these crucial lifelines that provide so many San Antonians with vital access to health care and peace of mind."
Rep. Castro is an original cosponsor of a House resolution that highlights the 50th Anniversary of Medicare and Medicaid and the successes of these important programs for our nation. Text of the resolution can be found here: LINK
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