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ID:202-395-6148
MAR 22'95
6:10 No. 016 P.01
March 22, 1995
NOTE TO JEREMY BEN-AMI
FROM: Bob Pellicci (x5-4871)
RE:
President Clinton's Article for the Washington Post
Attached is the markup of the draft article for the Washington
Post regarding the White House Conference on Aging. The draft
article reflects comments from the Department of Health and Human
Services, the National Economic Council (Ellen Seidman), and
OMB's offices of Economic Policy (Joe Minarik) and Human
Resources (Ken Apfel).
Chris Jennings and Jennifer Klein had serious concerns regarding
the article; they will give you their comments.
Note that the article needs a significant amount of editorial and
stylistic changes. For example, we believe page 4, paragraph 2
should be rewritten to make it more "Presidential".
Please call me if you have any questions.
395 39241
Helistalock
X 56148
cc: Jim Murr
Janet Forsgren
MAR 22'95
ID:202-395-6148
MASTER
DRAFT
PRESIDENT CLINTON'S ARTICLE FOR THE WASHINGTON POST
On May 3, 1995, I will address the formal opening of the
last White House Conference on Aging of this century. This will
be an historic and momentous event -- the gathering of 2,259
delegates and 250 observers from every corner of our country and
the world to debate and discuss serious issues and produce
resolutions to shape a national aging policy -- something our
nation needs and deserves but has never had.
From the start, when we began planning this Conference more
than a year ago, we looked for and quickly found momentum and
spirit in the grassroots. Since February of 1994, when I called
for the convening of the Conference, tens of thousands of people,
many of them senior citizens but also people of younger
generations, have organized and participated in more than 700
events across the land.
Those who gathered in forums, town meetings, roundtables,
small and large meetings and activities of all kinds did 50 with
a central purpose: to 1st the White House know what seniors and
people of all generations think and feel about a host of issues.
The messages are clear. I have heard and understood these
concerns -- whether about health care, social services or crime,
economic security or nutrition, employment or caregiving,
transportation or volunteering. older women's conserns or the
concerns of older voterans and minorities.
Our nation's more than 30 million senior citizens look to
the future with optimism and enthusiam, but they have seríous
MAR 22'95
6:11
NO.016
ID:202-395-6148
doubts. too -- especially about the quality of life they can
expect for their grandchildren. Seniers are conserned about what
the future holds for as individuals, but they have a
breader, intergenorational view of the future, also.
have told us that they
Older Americans want the came things we =11 wans They want
to be listened to and valued. They want to feel safe and secure
in their homes and communities.
They want good services of many kinds, easily available to
They want financial and health security.
those who need them. h They want a future of opportunity and
possibility for their children, their grandchildren and their
great-grandchildren.
Very assuredly, they want financial and health security, for
themselves and younger generations At the 1995 White House
Conference on Aging, there will be lively debate about many
things, but especially about Social Security and Medicare.
I share the concerns of our senior citizens, and the
concerns of all Americans, about the future of these two vital
programs that make it possible for millions of people --
mothers, fathers, grandparents and great-grandparents -- to live
in dignity. As President, I want to preserve and protect these
programs for seniors of today and seniors of tomorrow -- my own
baby boom generation and generations, like my daughter's, that
will quickly follow.
I hear what seniors are saying about Social Security, and I
agree. Social Security canrot be used to balance our budget.
Outs are unconscienable If we must make changes to preserve
- 2 -
ID:202-395-6148
MAR 22'95
6:11 No.016
Social Security for future generations, let us do SO sensibly and
compassionately, taking to heart the promises our government has
made to those receiving benefits and those still paying into the
system.
I hear what millions of Americans are saying about Medicare,
too. I am fighting with you and for you to protect health care
for older Americans, disabled people and mothers and children.
The $500 million in cuts Republicans have proposed for Medicare
and Medicaid will shift a staggering financial burden to Medicare
beneficiaries and shrink benefits for mothers and children who
depend on Medicaid for their health care. I have said many
times, and I re-emphasize my position now: Medicare must not be
for the wealthy
used to pay for tax cuts deficit reduction Any savings from
Medicare must be used in the larger context of health care
reform.
I want our country to gain control of the federal deficit,
80 we can leave behind a legacy of pride, not shame, for
America's youth. We have made progress, but we cannot do much
more without meaningful health care reform. Over the next five
years, almost 40 percent of the growth in all federal spending
will come from rising costs in federal health care programs --
primarily Medicare and Medicaid. We must contain costs, but we
need to direct our energies toward health care reform -- not
arbitrary cute that will hurt the most vulnerable Americans first
and everyone sooner or later.
Note: Chio paragraph and the preceeding paragrap h (as written)
are unconsistent.
- 3 -
ID:202-395-6148
MAR 22'95
6:12 No.016
The first White House Conference on Aging convened by a
Democratic President can reaffirm America's commitment to the
preservation and protection of Social Security and Medicare. And
it can give our country direction about something closely
intertwined with economic and health security -- long term care.
Seniors are passionate about their independence. They want
to age in place whenever possible -- in their own homes and
communities. But our systems of health care and social services
-- even the ways in which we have built our homes and structured
our communities AAO beructured .. make that simple wish
impossible to achieve for many, difficult for all. I have some
ideas, and I have proposed some. But I look to the Conference to
offer workable, creative, long term solutions to our long term
care dilemma.
The White House Conference on Aging comes at a time of
enormous change and uncertainty in our country -- a time of
diminishing resources, of a burgeoning older population that will
rapidly grow larger. of changes in family structure and in the
expectations we all have for the future. With its focus on
policy and putting policy into action, the Conference can help us
meet new challenges with new solutions.
The Conference can make a difference in how Americans view
aging and in the decisions we make as we age. It can bring us
closer to each other as "generations aging together," in the
words of the Conference theme.
. 4 -
MAR 22'95
ID :202-395-6148
It can energize us to see aging as personal and universal.
It can encourage younger Americans to reach out and learn from
seniors and to plan carefully for their own later years.
Definitely, the Conference will educate all of us about the
extraordinary abilities and potential of older Americans.
On May 2-5, when more than 2,500 delegates and observers
gather in Washington for the 1995 White House Conference on
Aging, they will do BO with a common purpose: to influence the
direction of national aging policy over the next 10 years. A
call for an intergenerational policy -- one recognizing and
promoting interdependence while protecting independence -- is
certain to emerge. I have high hopes for the Conference and,
because of my faith in all Americans, reason to believe my hopes
will be realized.
- 5 -
SENIORS
"Our senior citizens have made us what we are."
-
President Clinton
State of the Union, 1995
"My position is, I haven't and don't support cuts in Social Security, and I would support
savings in the Medicare program only if they're used to advance the cause of health care."
--
President Clinton
October 23, 1994
PROMOTING ECONOMIC SECURITY People who work hard and play by the rules
should be rewarded.
The Clinton Administration is committed to promoting economic security and
opportunity across generations.
By strengthening and streamlining the program, we're working to bolster public
confidence in Social Security. The Administration is committed to preserving Social
Security benefits; they should not be used to balance the budget. And, SSA continues
to improve customer service and satisfaction through its 800 number, reducing the
number of pending disability claims and mailing statements to Americans that let them
know the amount of retirement benefits they can expect.
People deserve a pension system that they can rely on. President Clinton signed
the Retirement Protection Act in December 1994. Now, workers and retirees will be
able to count on receiving the pensions they have earned.
The President's Middle Class Bill of Rights allows people to set up an Individual
Retirement Account and withdraw it tax-free for the cost of education or first time
home buying or the care of a parent or health care.
President Clinton proclaimed the week of March 12 through March 18, 1995 "National
Older Workers Employment Week." Together, we need to work to bring out the
unique combination of knowledge, skills, insight and experience older workers offer.
THE CLINTON ADMINISTRATION CONTINUES TO FIGHT FOR REAL HEALTH
CARE REFORM We remain firmly committed to guaranteeing health security to all
Americans and to containing health care costs for families, businesses and federal, state and
local governments.
In his December letter to the Congressional leadership, the President stated that this
year, we can take the first steps. The Congress can, and should, reform the insurance
market, make coverage affordable for, and available to, children; help workers who
lose their jobs keep their health insurance; level the playing field for the self-
employed; and help families provide long-term care for a sick parent or a disabled
child.
We know that long-term care is of critical importance to the elderly. That's why
we're proposing tax clarifications for private long-term care insurance and consumer
standards for long-term care so that insurance policies are worth the paper they're
written on.
We're fighting to protect health care for mothers, children, the disabled and aged
Americans. Republicans want to cut Medicare by about $300 billion and federal
Medicaid spending by at least $180 billion to $190 billion between now and 2002.
These cuts will mean shifting a staggering financial burden to elderly and disabled
Medicare beneficiaries; dropping coverage or shrinking benefits for mothers and
children on Medicaid; and significant cuts in payments to hospitals, physicians and
other providers.
The Administration is working to make Medicare and Medicaid more responsive to the
needs of beneficiaries and and more efficient for taxpayers who support the program.
We're proposing more managed care options to increase the choices beneficiaries have;
not as a smokescreen for deep and arbitrary cuts. And, we're streamlining regulations
and cutting paperwork.
The President has consistently said that we cannot get a hold of the deficit without
passing meaningful health reform. Over the next five years alone, almost 40 percent
of the growth in total federal spending will come from rising costs in federal health
care programs. We must contain costs in these programs. But we must do it as we
reform our health care system as a whole - - not by arbitrarily cutting programs that
serve the most vulnerable Americans.
A BETTER QUALITY OF LIFE The Administration is committed to fighting for a better
quality of life - - safe streets, high-quality and affordable education for everyone, and
making services available where they're needed most - - at the community level.
The Administration passed the smartest, toughest, and most comprehensive Anti-
Crime bill in this country's history a bill that provides police, prisons, punishment
and prevention so that the streets families live on are safer.
President Clinton has signed the Student Loan Reform Act, Goals 2000, School-to-
Work and expanded Head Start. His "Middle Class Bill of Rights" calls for tax cuts
for parents trying to put their kids through school and a $500 tax cut for families
with children under 13.
Promoting community service 20,000 young people are volunteering their time to
community service through the Administration's Americorps; some work with seniors
in their community. And, Senior Corps programs like Foster Grandparent and the
Retired and Senior Volunteer Program boast 526,000 participants.
Making Government Smaller and Cutting Red Tape The Administration has
eliminated 102,000 jobs and continues to cut obsolete regulations; reward results, not
red tape; take power away from federal bureaucracies and give it back to
communities.
March 9, 1995
Prepared by: Lynn Margherio X65561
Washington Post April Insert
Robert Blancato
March 17, 1995
Draft
Two weeks before John Kennedy's inauguration as President, in
January, 1961, President Dwight Eisenhower convened the first
White House Conference on Aging. There were 16.5 million
Americans over the age of 65 at that time, and health care,
economic security, and housing topped the agenda. Thirty-four
years later with a senior population twice that of 1961 and
projected to double again by 2030, we are in the final stages of
preparation for the fourth White House Conference on Aging and
the last of this century.
The 1995 agenda, formed by over 900 public comments, is once
again topped by health care, economic security, and housing.
These issues continue to have the greatest immediate impact on
the lives of seniors. But in spite of the recurrence of the
major issues, the tenor of this White House Conference on Aging
will be markedly different from past Conferences. Emphasis on
the interdependence of generations and the responsibility of
individuals to plan for changes that will occur throughout their
lives, sets this Conference apart from its predecessors. The
1995 Conference is not so much a conference about the aged, as it
is a conference about aging and nowhere is this better reflected
than in the 1995 WHCOA theme "America Now and into the 21st
Century: Generations Aging Together with Independence,
Opportunity and Dignity."
P.2/5
MAR 21 '95 05:44PM
President Clinton, on February 17, 1994, officially called for
the 1995 White House Conference on Aging. That same day, in
Tampa, Florida, over 100 people participated in a forum and focus
group session discussing the challenges and concerns of aging.
This gathering, the first of more than 750 pre-WHCoA events
taking place at the local, state, regional and national levels,
began a process dedicated not only to producing a comprehensive
aging policy for the next ten years but also to creating a
blueprint for its implementation.
The 1995 White House Conference on Aging, which will bring
approximately 2200 delegates from across the country to
Washington D.C. May 2-5, has been shaped by those who will be
most affected by its results, namely those at the grass roots
level. For the first time in White House Conference on Aging
history the public was asked to comment on and revise both the
conference theme and agenda. These public comments helped the
WHCOA Policy Committee, chaired by Sen. David Pryor (D-AR),
develop the theme and narrow the agenda from 19 major topics to
four.
The four main topics on the agenda are: (1) Assuring
Comprehensive Health Care Including Long Term Care, (2) Promoting
Economic Security, (3) Maximizing Housing and Support Service
Options, and (4) Maximizing Options for a Quality Life.
P.3/5
MAR 21 '95 05:45PM
Over 60,000 people to date have participated in officially
recognized WHCOA events, each helping to create the framework in
which the delegates will work in May. The 1995 WHCOA Advisory
Committee, a group of experts in the field of aging, are
currently working to pare down the recommendations from the pre-
Conference events into approximately 40 resolutions which the
delegates will discuss, debate, modify and finally vote on in the
final plenary session on May 5. Those resolutions approved by
the delegates will form the foundation of the final report sent
to Congress and the President.
Following the May 2-5 event in Washington, D.C., the WHCOA will
once again reach out to the grass roots by sponsoring a number of
post-Conference events at the local, state and federal levels
designed to help implement the resolutions passed by the
delegates. The public will once again be called upon to voice
their concerns and suggestions as to how the resolutions may best
be put into action by both the public and private sectors.
The similarity of this year's agenda to that of 1961 testifies to
the steadfastness of the issues most deeply affecting seniors.
The success of this conference will depend on its ability to deal
effectively with these recurreng issues by creating and
implementing an aging policy that has the same resolve as the
issues it seeks to address. It must be an aging policy which
addresses these issues in a social and political context that
accounts for changing family dynamics and reconfirms a commitment
MAR 21 '95 05:45PM
to programs which provide for the health, economic and social
well-being of our nation's seniors.
Such a policy is possible, but only with the participation and
cooperation of all generations. The 1995 White House Conference
on Aging provides an opportunity for young and old to discuss,
debate, develop, and implement strategies to help all of us age
with independence, opportunity and dignity. It is a unique
opportunity to celebrate and learn from the accomplishments of
the seniors of this country -- not only what they have done but
what they are doing. For, it is this focus on productive aging
that will best guide us as we come together for the 1995 White
House Conference on Aging to craft an aging policy that will
bring us into the next century.
P.5/5
MAR 21 '95 05:45PM
JEN that you Article,
DRAFT
PRESIDENT OF INTON'S ARTICLE FOR THE WASHINGTON POST
can
for
On May 3, 1995, I will address the formal opening of the
policy
last White House Conference on Aging of this century. This will
Jrst
be an historic and momentous event the gathering of 2,259
delegates and 250 observers from every corner of our country and
the world to debate and discuss serious issues and produce
resolutions to shape a national aging policy -- something our
nation needs and deserves but has never had.
From the start, when we began planning this Conference more
than a year ago, we looked for and quickly found momentum and
spirit in the grassroots. Since February of 1994, when I called
for the convening of the Conference, tens of thousands of people,
many of them senior citizens but also people of younger
generations, have organized and participated in more than 700
events across the land.
Those who gathered in forums, town meetings, roundtables,
small and large meetings and activities of all kinds did so with
a central purpose: to let the White House know what seniors and
people of all generations think and feel about a host of issues.
The messages are clear. I have heard and understood these
concerns - whether about health care, social services or crime,
economic security or nutrition, employment or caregiving,
transportation or volunteering, older women's concerns or the
concerns of older veterans and minorities.
Our nation's more than 30 million senior citizens look to
the future with optimism and enthusiam, but they have serious
doubts, too -- especially about the quality of life they can
expect for their grandchildren. Seniors are concerned about what
the future holds for themselves as individuals, but they have a
broader, intergenerational view of the future, also.
Older Americans want the same things we all want. They want
to be listened to and valued. They want to feel safe and secure
in their homes and communities.
They want good services of many kinds, easily available to
those who need them. They want a future of opportunity and
possibility for their children, their grandchildren and their
great-grandchildren.
Very assuredly, they want financial and health security, for
themselves and younger generations. At the 1995 White House
Conference on Aging, there will be lively debate about many
things, but especially about Social Security and Medicare.
I share the concerns of our senior citizens, and the
concerns of all Americans, about the future of these two vital
programs that make it possible for millions of people - -
mothers, fathers, grandparents and great-grandparents -- to live
in dignity. As President, I want to preserve and protect these
programs for seniors of today and seniors of tomorrow - - my own
baby boom generation and generations, like my daughter's, that
will quickly follow.
I hear what seniors are saying about Social Security, and I
See
So
fap
agree. Social Security cannot be used to balance our budget.
Cuts are unconscionable. If we must make changes to preserve
- 2 -
Social Security for future generations, let us do BO sensibly and
compassionately, taking to heart the promises our government has
made to those receiving benefits and those still paying into the
system.
I hear what millions of Americans are saying about Medicare,
too. I am fighting with you and for you to protect health care
and for the
for older Americans disabled, people and mothers and children.
The $500 million in cuts Republicans have proposed for Medicare
elderly and disabi
approximately
and Medicaid will shift a staggering financial burden to Medicare
^
beneficiaries and shrink benefits for mothers and children who
depend on Medicaid for their health care.
I have said many
times, and I re-emphasize my position now: Medicare must not be
For the wealthy
We must contain losts in
used to pay for tax cuts or deficit reduction. Any savings from
But we must No if as we reform our health cure system
Medicare must be used in the larger context of health care
Lrecognize the imperative of doing it in context of reforming our
the grams.
reform
as a whole - not by arbitrarily cutting care stem. programs that serve the
most vulnerable tmericans
Reducing growth S/B the outcome of
the reform slashing saying there,wedidit,
I want our country to gain control of the federal deficit,
so we can leave behind a legacy of pride, not shame, for
really get a hold
America's youth. We have made progress, but we cannot do much of the
define
more without meaningful health care reform. Over the next five
years, almost 40 percent of the growth in all federal spending
will come from rising costs in federal health care programs/-
primarily Medicare and Medicaid. We must contain costs, but we
need to direct our energies toward health care reform not
arbitrary cuts that will hurt the most vulnerable Americans first
and everyone sooner or later.
impt the pros us to amers, 3 in
Sumbarly, to providerse
add tron to TO SPIRAL
Part of health cere reform-we
need to look was can term
The first White House Conference on Aging convened by a - investment n
acreentives
Democratic President can reaffirm America's commitment to the
for public
preservation and protection of Social Security and Medicare. And private
insurance
it can give our country direction about something closely
werentwald
providing
intertwined with economic and health security -- long term care. home
Tommunity
Seniors are passionate about their independence. They want long ter
get this our
to age in place whenever possible - - in their own homes and. home
community
communities. But our systems of health care and social services vased
long
- - even the ways in which we have built our homes and structured term care
our communities are structured make that simple wish
care
impossible to achieve for many, difficult for all.
I have some
-stdo
for
ideas, and I have proposed some. But I look to the Conference to
private
offer workable, creative, long term solutions to our long term
policies
protect
care dilemma.
consumers.
The White House Conference on Aging comes at a time of
enormous change and uncertainty in our country -- a time of
diminishing resources, of a burgeoning older population that will
rapidly grow larger, of changes in family structure and in the
expectations we all have for the future. With its focus on
policy and putting policy into action, the Conference can help us
meet new challenges with new solutions.
The Conference can make a difference in how Americans view
aging and in the decisions we make as we age. It can bring us
closer to each other as "generations aging together," in the
words of the Conference theme.
- 4 -
It can energize us to see aging as personal and universal.
It can encourage younger Americans to reach out and learn from
seniors and to plan carefully for their own later years.
Definitely, the Conference will educate all of us about the
extraordinary abilities and potential of older Americans.
On May 2-5, when more than 2,500 delegates and observers
gather in Washington for the 1995 White House Conference on
Aging, they will do so with a common purpose: to influence the
direction of national aging policy over the next 10 years. A
call for an intergenerational policy -- one recognizing and
promoting interdependence while protecting independence -- is
certain to emerge. I have high hopes for the Conference and,
because of my faith in all Americans, reason to believe my hopes
will be realized.
- 5 -
03/22/95
18:10
001
***
ACTIVITY REPORT
TRANSMISSION OK
TX/RX NO.
5239
CONNECTION TEL
62878
CONNECTION ID
START TIME
03/22 18:08
USAGE TIME
01'55
PAGES
6
RESULT
OK
The White House
DOMESTIC POLICY
FACSIMILE TRANSMISSION COVER SHEET
TO:
Gene Sperling
FAX NUMBER:
62878
TELEPHONE NUMBER:
FROM:
Karen GUSS
TELEPHONE NUMBER:
65603
FAX
62599
PAGES (INCLUDING COVER):
6
COMMENTS: Here is the article I spoke to Paul about
this afternoon. It is to be published right
before the White House Conf. on Aging (earlyMay).
This draftwas written by The Conference staff.
I've been asked to rewrite it by Fri. a.m. and \ am
hoping to get your input. (Not: The handwritten corrections
are Jen klein's). Thanks for yr help! Kav
MAR-23-95 14:29 FROM OMB
ID:
PAGE
272
CROSS REF 46933 ,+R
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
February 9, 1995
Dear Pat:
Thank you for your letter of January 17. I thoroughly agree
that when the public starts expressing greater confidence in
Republicans than in Democrats to preserve and protect a program
that is the quintessential Democratic achievement, we need to sit
up and take notice.
Our party created Social Security, defended it through the
years against a variety of Republican assaults, and needs now to
make sure not only that the system continues to operate
effectively but that the public understands our unwavering
commitment.
We cannot let our party's greatest domestic achievement be
destroyed by those who have never reconciled themselves to it.
Social Security cannot be turned into welfare, nor can it be
turned into a system so privatized that large numbers of its
recipients must look to welfare. But most of all, we have to
convince the next generation that it will be there when they
retire and that our party will make sure of it. Your ideas will
help to do that and I am grateful for them.
Your dedication to this issue is unmatched and I will
continue to call upon your expertise. I encourage you to
continue your discussions with Commissioner Chater on such
matters as an improved Social Security card and annual
statements.
With best wishes,
Sincerely,
Bow Cunter
The Honorable Daniel Patrick Moynihan
United States Senate
Washington, D.C. 20510
means test
private pension system
solved financially sound
Todd
Chris
me
Jen
Melanne
me
Carol
Todd
Bob Pellicci X 54871
me/Todd
Seremy - tell ve Caol,ete. me
George
Todd
Gene
Todd
Kan x54844
me
Ellen Seidman
me
Joe Minarik
me/Todd
ID:202-395-6148
MAR 24'95
4:37 No.005 P.01
OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET
Legislative Reference Division
Labor-Welfare-Personnel Branch
Telecopier Transmittal Sheet
FROM:
Melissa Cook
PHONE: 395-3924
DATE: 3/24/95
TIME:
Pages sent (including transmittal sheet): 7
COMMENTS: Reviewed by: HHS (provided some comments but
+ heard from
dept. review.)
insufficient time for Complete
Office of Consumer Affairs
OMB/Health Division
TO:
OMB/I (Apfel) Human Resources Division
CEA (mezur)
Karen
Cruss
OMB/Economic Policy Division
Didn't hear from: Chris Jennings
Nancy-Apn Min--deferred staff toher
Jennifer Klein
Ellen I Seidman
PLEASE CALL THE PERSON(S) WAMED ABOVE FOR IMMEDIATE PICK-UP.
Chuck Konissberg
ID:202-395-6148
MAR 24'95
4:37 No. 005 P.02
DRAFT
WASHINGTON POST APRIL INSERT
PRESIDENT CLINTON
March 24, 1995
On May 3, 1995, I will become the first Democratic President to
convene a White House Conference on Aging. I look forward to
addressing the more than 2,200 delegates and 250 observers from
around the Country
cities and towns all over our Nation who will travel to
washington to play help an important role in shaping . national aging
policy. I have no doubt that the wealth of experience and wisdom
of the participants will produce an exciting and productive
Conference.
I am especially pleased that the Conference is an example of
those
government working together with the people it serves. The
public participated fully in developing the theme and the agends
of the Conference. Since February of 1994, when I called for the
convening of this White House Conference on Aging, tens of
thousands of Americans have participated in more than 700 forums,
town meetings, roundtables and other events all over the country
Through these events, seniors end younger people who care about
them made their voices heard here in Weshington centered on the
issues that will be debated during the Conference.
Thanks to the wide participation in preconference events, we have
already learned a great deal about the issues that are important
to seniors. And although our Nation's more than 30 million
senior citizens are generally optimistic about the future, they
1
ID:202-395-6148
MAR 24'95
4:38 No. 005 P.03
have serious concerns about what 1t will hold for them and for
their children and grandchildren.
AS 1 said in the state of the Union address, "Our senior citizens
have made us what we are." when I made this statement, I was
speaking not only of the hard work and sacrifices our parents and
grandparents have made in the past, but also of the continuing
contributions of our Nation's seniors. Seniors are contributing
in the workplece, as caretakers, giver as loving and supportive family
members and friends, and as volunteers in Senior Corps programs
and in thousands of other places -- including the White House.
But seniors have told us that they are concerned that the federal
programs that make it possible for millions of older Americans to
live in dignity -- programs will that today's seniors supported for
north not be there for their children
the benefit of their elders -- will be destroyed. I recognize
the vital role of these programs in the lives of our senior
citizens. I am determined to preserve, protect and improve
Social Security and health care services for today's senior
citizens and for the generations that follow.
That means that I will fight to make sure that the Social
reverse
Security system continues to operate effectively and that it is the order
there for the next generation when they retire. We must not
of the 1st
2 sentences
forget the commitment our government has made to present and
the
Social Security
of this
future beneficiaries of this long-standing program.
paragraph
2
ID :202-395-6148
MAR 24'95
4:38 No 005 P.04
the Social Security Administration is ously (SSA) more operates responsive ina effectively to and
it correor Today, the SSA/continues improve ts customer
Forexample, SSAis
services becoming more accessible through its 800 number,
reducing the number of pending disability claims and mailing
statements to Americans that let them know the amount of
retirement benefits they can expect.
Other programs seniors have told us are important to their well-
being are federal health care programs. Although everyone
recognizes the role Medicare plays in the health care of older
Americans, it is important to understand that Medicaid also
provides essential services to vulnerable elderly and disabled
Americans. In fact, approximately two-thirds of all Medicaid
expenditures are for services for the elderly and disabled.
Over the next five years, almost 40 percent of the growth in all
federal spending will come from rising costs in federal health
care spending. For the sake of our Nation's economic future, we
costs
must contain cests in these programs But we must recognize the
importance of doing this within
Imporative of doing so in the context of reforming our entire
health care system. There Reducing are the many growth aspects of the to cost real, of meaningful federal health
health care reform including reducing result from costs, health improving reform access, and but improving
66 cannot allow our lawmakers to slash these programs in lieu of
care programs care - quality.
enacting needed reforms. And we must not permit Medicare and
Medicaid to be sacrificed to pay for tax cuts for the wealthy.
however,
Federal health Care
3
ID:202-395-6148
MAR 24'95
4:39 No.005 P.05
AB part of our efforts to reform our Nation's health care system,
my Administration has worked to improve federal health care
programs. We have increased efforts to combat fraud and abuse to
make sure that tax dollars are used to provide health care
services, better publicized the availability of Medicare-covered
services like flu shots and mammograms, supported states in
reforming their Medicaid programs, and worked to increase choices
and ensure quality of care for Medicare beneficiaries. We look
forward to hearing more from the Conference on Aging delegates
about how to further improve these programs.
The White House Conference on Aging also provides an opportunity
to tackle another difficult and critical aspect of health care
reform -- long-term care. Seniors have told us how much they
value their independence. They have shown us that our current
health care and social service systems make it hard, and, in many
cases, impossible, for senior citizens to remain in their own
homes and communities. That is why I have called upon
Congress to work with me to help Americans provide long-term care
for their sick or disabled family members.
That is why we need
to look at investment in public long-term care. insurance and at
providing incentives for private insurance. That is why we need
consumer protection standards that will ensure that long-term
care policies are worth the paper they are written on. I am
confident that the Conference delegates will make an invaluable
contribution towards resolving the issue of long-term care.
That insurance is why we need to 4 look at ways to promote
for long-term care.
ID:202-395-6148
MAR 24'95
4:39 No.005 P.06
This issue as well as the others I have discussed here are often
lumped together as "seniors' issues." But seniors have reminded
us that they are personally affected by many of the same concerns
about personal and economic security as are younger citizens.
And they have shown us that "seniors' issues" are everyone's
issues -- not only because those of us who are not yet senior
citizens will, God willing, become senior citizens, but because
older Americans are an integral part of our families and our
communities. Similarly, older Americans are concerned about
issues that, at first glance, affect only younger people --
issues like public education, student loans, job training, and
health care and nutrition for pregnant women and children. We
have heard repeatedly from older Americans that what they want is
a future filled with opportunity for their children, for their
grandchildren and for the young people in their communities. The
Conference theme, "generations aging together," is a wonderful
expression of the faot that we share one another's lives and the
fate of our Nation.
Lately, I've been speaking about a New Covenant -- a pertnership
between our government and the American people that recognizes
that every citizen has the right and responsibility to reach
their full potential, and to give something back to society in
return. The New Covenant is a crucial element of my vision for a
better America, and seniors play an importent part. Our
government must provide seniors with the opportunity to continue
5
ID
:202-395-6148
MAR 24'95
4:40 No.005 P.07
to lead independent and productive lives, and in turn our senior
citizens have a great deal to contribute to younger generations
of Americans and to our Nation as a whole. Participants in the
White House Conference on Aging -- of all ages -- will make a
tremendous contribution when they gether here in Weshington and
put their creativity, experience, wisdom and energy to work
shaping a national aging policy that will benefit us all.
6
The White House
DOMESTIC POLICY
FACSIMILE TRANSMISSION COVER SHEET
TO:
Gene Sperling
FAX NUMBER:
62878
TELEPHONE NUMBER: 65807
FROM:
Karen GUSS
TELEPHONE NUMBER: 65603
PAGES (INCLUDING COVER):
7
COMMENTS:
Gene - If you want something
changed, try Elaine Dalpiaz at the WH
Conf. on Aging Her#is 245-7832 and
her assistant is Brian Preston (245 0,05).
Kare
DRAFT
WASHINGTON POST APRIL INSERT
PRESIDENT CLINTON
March 24, 1995
On May 3, 1995, I will become the first Democratic President to
convene a White House Conference on Aging. I look forward to
addressing the more than 2,200 delegates and 250 observers from
around the country who will travel to Washington to help shape a
national aging policy. I have no doubt that the wealth of
experience and wisdom of the participants will produce an
exciting and productive Conference.
The Conference is an example of government at its best: working
together with the people it serves. The public participated
fully in developing the theme and the agenda of the Conference.
Since February of 1994, when I called for the convening of this
White House Conference on Aging, tens of thousands of Americans
have participated in more than 700 forums, town meetings,
roundtables and other events all over the country centered on the
issues that will be debated during the Conference.
Thanks to the wide participation in preconference events, we have
already learned a great deal about the issues that are important
to seniors. Although our nation's more than 30 million senior
citizens are generally optimistic about the future, they have
serious concerns about what it will hold for them and for their
children and grandchildren.
1
As I said in the State of the Union address, "Our senior citizens
have made us what we are." When I made this statement, I was
speaking not only of the hard work and sacrifices our parents and
grandparents have made in the past, but also of the continuing
contributions of our nation's seniors. Seniors are contributing
in the workplace, as caregivers, as loving and supportive family
members and friends, and as volunteers in Senior Corps programs
and in thousands of other places -- including the White House.
But seniors have told us that they are concerned that the federal
programs that make it possible for millions of older Americans to
live in dignity -- programs that today's seniors supported for
the benefit of their elders -- will be destroyed. I recognize
the vital role of these programs in the lives of our senior
citizens. I am determined to preserve, protect and improve
Social Security and health care services for today's senior
citizens and for the generations that follow.
This year, we mark the sixtieth anniversary of Social Security,
the single most important step our nation has taken to ensure the
economic security of our senior citizens. We must never forget
the commitment we have made to present and future beneficiaries
of this long-standing program. I will fight to make sure that
the promise of this program is fulfilled for this generation and
for generations to come.
2
The Social Security Administration operates effectively and is
continously improving its customer service. For example, SSA is
becoming more accessible through its 800 number, reducing the
number of pending disability claims, and mailing statements to
Americans that let them know the amount of retirement benefits
they can expect.
Seniors have also stressed to us the importance to their well-
being of federal health care programs. Although everyone
recognizes the role Medicare plays in the health care of older
Americans, it is important to understand that Medicaid also
provides important services to vulnerable elderly and disabled
Americans. In fact, approximately two-thirds of all Medicaid
expenditures are for services for the elderly and disabled.
Over the next five years, almost 40 percent of the growth in all
federal spending will come from rising costs in federal health
care spending. For the sake of our nation's economic future, we
must contain costs in these programs. But we must recognize the
imperative of doing SO in the context of reforming our health
care system. This is why I have consistently opposed deep and
arbitrary cuts in programs serving our elderly that do not
address the underlying problems of our health care system. And
it is why I have consistently stated that I will not permit
Medicare to be sacrificed to pay for tax cuts for the wealthy.
3
As part of our efforts to reform our nation's health care system,
my Administration has worked to improve federal health care
programs. We have increased efforts to combat fraud and abuse to
make sure that tax dollars are used to provide health care
services, better publicized the availability of Medicare-covered
services like flu shots and mammograms, supported states in
reforming their Medicaid programs, and worked to increase choices
and ensure quality of care for Medicare beneficiaries. We look
forward to hearing more from the Conference on Aging delegates
about how to improve these programs further.
The White House Conference on Aging also provides an opportunity
to tackle another difficult and critical aspect of health care
reform -- long-term care. Seniors have told us how much they
value their independence. They have shown us that our current
health care and social service systems make it hard, and, in many
cases, impossible, for senior citizens to remain in their own
homes and communities. That is why I have called on Congress to
work with me to help Americans provide long-term care for their
sick or disabled family members. That is why we need to look at
ways to promote insurance for long-term care. That is why we
need consumer protection standards that will ensure that long-
term care policies are worth the paper they are written on. I am
confident that the Conference delegates will make an invaluable
contribution towards resolving the issue of long-term care.
4
This issue as well as the others I have discussed here are often
lumped together as "seniors' issues." But seniors have reminded
us that they are personally affected by many of the same concerns
about personal and economic security as are younger citizens.
And they have shown us that "seniors' issues" are everyone's
issues -- not only because those of us who are not yet senior
citizens will, God willing, become senior citizens, but because
older Americans are an integral part of our families and our
communities. Similarly, older Americans are concerned about
issues that, at first glance, affect only younger people --
issues like public education, student loans, job training, and
health care and nutrition for pregnant women and children. We
have heard repeatedly from older Americans that what they want is
a future filled with opportunity for their children, for their
grandchildren and for the young people in their communities. The
Conference theme, "generations aging together," is a wonderful
expression of the fact that we share one another's lives and the
fate of our nation.
Lately, I've been speaking about a New Covenant -- a partnership
between our government and the American people that recognizes
that every citizen has the right and responsibility to reach
their full potential, and to give something back to society in
return. The New Covenant is a crucial element of my vision for a
better America, and seniors play an important part. Our
government must provide seniors with the opportunity to continue
5
to lead independent and productive lives. In turn, our senior
citizens have a great deal to contribute to younger generations
of Americans and to our nation as a whole. Participants in the
White House Conference on Aging -- of all ages -- will make a
tremendous contribution when they gather here in Washington and
put their creativity, experience, wisdom and energy to work
shaping a national aging policy that will benefit us all.
6
03/24/95 17:59
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03/24/95
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DRAFT
WASHINGTON POST APRIL INSERT
PRESIDENT CLINTON
March 24, 1995
On May 3, 1995, I will become the first Democratic President to
convene a White House Conference on Aging. I look forward to
addressing the more than 2,200 delegates and 250 observers from
cities and towns all over our Nation who will travel to
Washington to play an important role in shaping a national aging
policy. I have no doubt that the wealth of experience and wisdom
of the participants will produce an exciting and productive
Conference.
I am especially pleased that the Conference is an example of
Atih best.
government working together with the people it serves. The
public participated fully in developing the theme and the agenda
of the Conference. Since February of 1994, when I called for the
convening of this White House Conference on Aging, tens of
thousands of Americans have participated in more than 700 forums,
town meetings, roundtables and other events all over the country.
Through these events, seniors and younger people who care about
them made their voices heard here in Washington.
Thanks to the wide participation in preconference events, we have
already learned a great deal about the issues that are important.
to seniors. And although our Nation's more than 30 million
senior citizens are generally optimistic about the future, they
1
have serious concerns about what it will hold for them and for
their children and grandchildren.
As I said in the State of the Union address, "Our senior citizens
have made us what we are." When I made this statement, I was
speaking not only of the hard work and sacrifices our parents and
grandparents have made in the past, but also of the continuing
contributions of our Nation's seniors. Seniors are contributing
in the workplace, as caretakers, as loving and supportive family
members and friends, and as volunteers in Senior Corps programs
and in thousands of other places -- including the White House.
But seniors have told us that they are concerned that the federal
programs that make it possible for millions of older Americans to
live in dignity -- programs that today's seniors supported for
the benefit of their elders -- will be destroyed. I recognize
the vital role of these programs in the lives of our senior
citizens. I am determined to preserve, protect and improve
Social Security and health care services for today's senior
citizens and for the generations that follow.
This year, we mark the sixticult Anniversaryof Johnson Social SECURITY, most the important single
ensure
she our nation
Thok means
I will fight to make sure that the Spoial
has taken
to ensure
Security system continues to operates effectively and
promise of
the
well-being
there for the next generation when they retire We must not never
of or
this for Fulfillel program this
we have
forget the commitment our government has made to present and
senior
cilierens
future beneficiaries of this long-standing program. And we can
and generation
sensation) to core
2
make the Social Security Administration more responsive to those
it serves. Today, the SSA continues to improve its customer
service by becoming more accessible through its 800 number,
reducing the number of pending disability claims and mailing
statements to Americans that let them know the amount of
retirement benefits they can expect.
Also stressed to
Other programs seniors have told us are important to their well-
of
being federal health care programs. Although everyone
recognizes the role Medicare plays in the health care of older
Americans, it is important to understand that Medicaid also
provides essential services to vulnerable elderly and disabled
Americans. In fact, approximately two-thirds of all Medicaid
expenditures are for services for the elderly and disabled.
Over the next five years, almost 40 percent of the growth in all
federal spending will come from rising costs in federal health
care spending. For the sake of our Nation's economic future, we
must contain costs in these programs. But we must recognize the
imperative of doing so in the context of reforming our entire
health care system. Reducing the growth of the cost of federal
health care programs will result from health care reform -- but
we cannot allow our lawmakers to slash these programs in lieu of
enacting needed reforms. And we must not permit Medicare and
Medicaid to be sacrificed to pay for tax cuts for the wealthy.
3
As part of our efforts to reform our Nation's health care system,
my Administration has worked to improve federal health care
programs. We have increased efforts to combat fraud and abuse to
make sure that tax dollars are used to provide health care
services, better publicized the availability of Medicare-covered
services like flu shots and mammograms, supported states in
reforming their Medicaid programs, and worked to increase choices
and ensure quality of care for Medicare beneficiaries. We look
forward to hearing more from the Conference on Aging delegates
about how to further improve these programs.
The White House Conference on Aging also provides an opportunity
to tackle another difficult and critical aspect of health care
reform -- long-term care. Seniors have told us how much they
value their independence. They have shown us that our current
health care and social service systems make it hard, and, in many
cases, impossible, for senior citizens to remain in their own
homes and communities. That is why I have called
on
Congress to work with me to help Americans provide long-term care
for their sick or disabled family members. That is why we need
to look at investment in public long-term care insurance and at
providing incentives for private insurance. That is why we need
consumer protection standards that will ensure that long-term
care policies are worth the paper they are written on. I am
confident that the Conference delegates will make an invaluable
contribution towards resolving the issue of long-term care.
4
This issue as well as the others I have discussed here are often
lumped together as "seniors' issues." But seniors have reminded
us that they are personally affected by many of the same concerns
about personal and economic security as are younger citizens.
And they have shown us that "seniors' issues" are everyone's
issues -- not only because those of us who are not yet senior
citizens will, God willing, become senior citizens, but because
older Americans are an integral part of our families and our
communities. Similarly, older Americans are concerned about
issues that, at first glance, affect only younger people --
crime
issues like public education, student loans, job training, and
health care and nutrition for pregnant women and children. We
have heard repeatedly from older Americans that what they want is
a future filled with opportunity for their children, for their
grandchildren and for the young people in their communities. The
Conference theme, "generations aging together," is a wonderful
expression of the fact that we share one another's lives and the
fate of our Nation.
Lately, I've been speaking about a New Covenant -- a partnership
between our government and the American people that recognizes
that every citizen has the right and responsibility to reach
their full potential, and to give something back to society in
return. The New Covenant is a crucial element of my vision for a
better America, and seniors play an important part. Our
government must provide seniors with the opportunity to continue
5
to lead independent and productive lives, and in turn our senior
citizens have a great deal to contribute to younger generations
of Americans and to our Nation as a whole. Participants in the
White House Conference on Aging -- of all ages -- will make a
tremendous contribution when they gather here in Washington and
put their creativity, experience, wisdom and energy to work
shaping a national aging policy that will benefit us all.
6