Velazquez introduces bidding repeal bill

WASHINGTON, D.C., Jan. 3, 2012—Yesterday Rep. Nydia Velazquez (D-NY) introduced a bill, H.R. 27, to repeal the Medicare bidding program. The full text of the bill is not available yet but it is described as legislation “to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to repeal the Medicare competitive acquisition program for durable medical equipment and prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies (DMEPOS), and for other purposes.” Velazquez is the ranking member of the House Small Business Committee.  The bill was referred to the Small Business Committee in addition to the Ways and Means and Energy and Commerce committees. The American Association for Homecare is pleased that Congresswoman Velazquez recognizes the serious problems with the bidding program. It is committed to working with her and other members of Congress to stop the program and replace it with the Market Pricing Program (MPP). Learn more at www.aahomecare.org.