The Question
What have you done—and
what will you do in Congress—to safeguard and expand the rights,
services and community participation of people with disabilities
in Minnesota?
McCollum's Response
Congress plays an important role in issues that directly impact
persons with disabilities. I have enjoyed the opportunity to work
with many Minnesotans who share my goal of improved access to health
care, education, and full participation in our government.
Medicare and Medicaid are critical safety-net programs that must
be preserved. Access to health care for many allows independence,
the opportunity to work, and the critical care that one needs for
a dignified, productive life. I voted against the so-called Deficit
Reduction Act because it made drastic cuts to Medicaid and Medicare
causing harm to persons with disabilities, seniors and vulnerable
children.
The increased cost-sharing in Medicaid advocated by the Republicans
in Congress will clearly reduce access to those who benefit from
this program. In addition, cuts to the Early and Periodic Screening,
Diagnostic, and Treatment funding will reduce important benefits
and preventive measures for children with disabilities. This is the
wrong direction in health care policy.
We also need to do better in providing prescription drug coverage.
I voted against Medicare Part D because it did not allow for negotiation
with pharmaceutical companies for best price, and it included large
giveaways to the pharmaceutical and insurance industries. I support
H.R. 752, the Medicare Prescription Drugs Savings and Choice Act.
This bill would allow for comprehensive coverage under traditional
Medicare, allow for negotiation, and stabilize premiums for beneficiaries.
Access to appropriate pharmaceuticals is critical to quality of life,
and we need to do better in ensuring quality coverage for the persons
with disabilities and the seniors who have earned this benefit.
In Congress, I have
been a strong advocate of special education and have introduced
H.R. 4605, the Achieving our IDEA Act, to provide full funding
of Washington’s commitment to special education.
Congress must finally make it a priority to live up to the promise
that all children deserve a free and appropriate education.
Voting is the right and responsibility of every citizen, and polling
places must be accessible. I supported the Help America Vote Act
in 2002, which includes funds to improve access to voting systems
for persons with disabilities. I am also proud to be a cosponsor
of H.R. 550, the Voter Confidence and Increased Accessibility Act,
which will enhance the accessibility voter verification mechanisms
for individuals with disabilities. If re-elected, I will continue
to fight to ensure that all Americans can exercise their right to
participate in our democracy. ![]()
