[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 2] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page 2168] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]INTRODUCTION OF H.R. 5268, TO PROVIDE A TEMPORARY INCREASE IN FEDERAL MEDICAID ASSISTANCE PERCENTAGE UNDER THE MEDICAID PROGRAM TO STATES ______ HON. JOHN D. DINGELL of michigan in the house of representatives Wednesday, February 13, 2008 Mr. DINGELL. Madam Speaker, last week I, with my colleagues Representatives Frank Pallone and Peter King, introduced H.R. 5268, legislation that would provide immediate fiscal relief to States through Medicaid. The States of our Nation and the healthcare safety net are simultaneously facing a crisis. This is not the time for the Federal Government to turn its back. In addition to the broader economic stimulus package that we have approved, it is urgent that we provide States with resources to meet growing healthcare demands. In 2003, during the last economic downturn, the Federal Government provided fiscal relief to States by increasing Federal Medicaid payments during five quarters. The increased Federal Medicaid payments helped States meet increased demand for Medicaid coverage and successfully fought off many additional and more extensive reductions in healthcare for poor children, the disabled, pregnant women and the elderly who depend on Medicaid health coverage. If the economic downturn continues, States will once again be forced to deny people Medicaid coverage and or reduce Medicaid payments to healthcare providers unless some relief is provided. If we do not act, the decreased ability to provide health care could mean even more job losses, further exacerbating the economy. According to a 2005 study, for every $1 million of State funds invested in Medicaid, 33 new jobs and $1.23 million in new wages are generated in a year. In 2003, a Republican Congress and President agreed to the temporary increase in Medicaid payments. It was enacted through a number of bipartisan votes. We must once again come together to deliver as we did before. We need to move quickly to strengthen Medicaid, before the effects of a slowing economy cause people who need health care to he turned away. ____________________