<nobr>Sep 22, 2005</nobr>

ERIC Letter to Congress - Stay the Course with Medicare Part D

September 22, 2005



The Honorable J. Dennis Hastert
Speaker
United States House of Representatives
235 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515

Dear Mr. Speaker:

The ERISA Industry Committee (ERIC) strongly urges Congress to stay the course and keep the Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Program on schedule. America's major employers have been working with their employees and the government to prepare for the planned January 2006 implementation.

Employers have invested considerable energy and resources in reliance that the program will go forward as planned. Delaying or derailing implementation would be costly and seriously undermine confidence in the government's commitment to the benefit and to employers' retiree health care programs. Although offsetting the expenses involved in hurricane relief is an important cause, the prescription drug program is not expendable and cannot be delayed.

America's major employers worked with the government to develop a sound and affordable program to which we are committed. We have been working with the government every day to make sure it is implemented correctly and effectively. Millions of dollars have been spent by the private sector educating the public, employers, and workers about the program and expectations have been built. We strongly urge that the Medicare Prescription Drug program move forward as planned.

Very Truly Yours,

Mark J. Ugoretz
President

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