Mark Schauer RSS Articles

Schauer calls on South Korea to end unfair trade practices

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Today Congressman Mark Schauer (D-MI) co-sponsored a resolution calling on the government of the Republic of Korea to end unfair trade practices related to the automotive industry, as well as demanding the United States-Korea Free Trade agreement be amended to ensure fair access to the Korean automobile market by U.S. manufacturers.

“Michigan’s auto companies, suppliers, and workers can compete with anyone in the world when given a chance to do so on a level playing field,” said Schauer. “The draft U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement would allow the current discriminatory treatment of imported American automobiles in the Korean market to continue, and this is simply unacceptable. By leveling the playing field, we can help Michigan businesses compete globally and get our economy back on track.”

The resolution Schauer co-sponsored would revise the U.S.-Korean Free Trade Agreement to include the March 2007 Congressional Auto Caucus proposal, which reflects a pragmatic, trade-expanding approach that provides achievable incentives for Korea to open its automotive market. Specifically, the proposal addresses the phase-out of the 2.5 percent U.S. passenger vehicle tariff and creates a positive incentive for Korea to open its market to U.S. autos. Additionally, the proposal creates a mechanism available to all industries for the United States to take action against future non-tariff barriers.

Today Schauer also announced his support for a resolution congratulating the new government of Japan for its about-face on currency policy. Previously, Japan had practiced direct and indirect methods of currency manipulation, thereby driving down the value of the yen and making Japanese imports in the U.S. cheaper than comparable domestically produced goods.

A copy of the resolution, as introduced by Congressman John Dingell (D-MI), is attached.

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Medicare Open Enrollment

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

If you or someone you know is enrolled in Medicare, don't forget that the general open enrollment began on Sunday, November 15, and continues through December 31. During this time, people with Medicare can add, drop or change their prescription drug coverage. They can also select a health plan for their 2010 coverage.

If you need assistance
Contact the Michigan Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP, Inc.) at 1-800-803-7174. MMAP (pronounced "map") is a free counseling service for Medicare/Medicaid beneficiaries and their caregivers. Since 1984, MMAP has provided education and counseling assistance to Michigan’s Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries and their families or representatives.

MMAP is funded by a grant from the Michigan Office of Services to the Aging through funding received from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the Medicare agency and a grant from the Administration on Aging, and is not affiliated with the insurance industry. Nationally, this program is called the State Health Assistance Program (SHIP).

Call 1-800-803-7174 to be connected with a local MMAP counselor who can help you:

Choose Medicare Plan during open enrollment
Identify resources for prescription drug assistance
Explain Medicare Health Plan Options
Understand doctor bills, hospital bills and Medicare Summary Notices
Understand Medicare/Medicaid eligibility, enrollment, coverage, claims and appeals
Enroll in Medicare Savings Programs,
Review your Medicare supplemental (“Medigap”) insurance needs, compare policies and pursue claims and refunds
Explore long term care financing options, including long term care insurance
Identify and report Medicare/Medicaid fraud and abuse.

MMAP counselors are specialists trained in Medicare and Medicaid law and regulations, health insurance counseling and relevant insurance products. MMAP counselors are not connected with any insurance company, nor are they licensed to sell insurance. Their purpose is to serve you objectively and confidentially. Currently, MMAP has hundreds of highly trained and certified counselors. These dedicated and compassionate people, many of them seniors, answer questions and act as guides through the Medicare and Medicaid programs. MMAP counselors have assisted many thousands of Michigan’s elder and disabled citizens and saved them many millions of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses, bringing peace of mind to those who are often confused and frightened when they deal with unfamiliar and difficult government systems.

Additional Resources

MMAP website: www.mmapinc.org
Official Medicare website: www.medicare.gov. For general Medicare information, ordering Medicare booklets, and information about health plans, contact 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for assistance. English and Spanish-speaking customer service representatives at this number can answer questions about the Original Medicare Plan and provide up-to-date information regarding the health plans available in your area. TTY users please call 1-877-486-2048.
Medicare and You 2010: click here (PDF)

If you need help finding a Medicare counselor or help answering other Medicare questions, please call Congressman Schauer's District Office toll-free at 877-737-6407.

Schauer votes to boost manufacturing in Charlotte

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Today Congressman Mark Schauer (D-MI) voted to pass the Fire Grants Reauthorization Act (HR 3791), a bipartisan bill that extends two popular, critically important firefighter assistance programs – the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG) and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) program – for the next five years. Spartan Motors of Charlotte is a leading manufacturer of emergency-rescue vehicles, and is expected to receive a significant economic boost from this important legislation.

“These critical investments will keep people safe and boost demand for the top-quality emergency vehicles that are built right here in Eaton County,” said Schauer. “This is great news for Spartan Motors, their workers, and the entire Charlotte community.”

Since 2002, the AFG and SAFER programs have provided 1,427 grants to Michigan communities, totaling more than $111 million in federal funding.

In recent years, Spartan Motors has developed a comprehensive line of fire trucks, aerials and ambulances to attract the best national dealers in this specialty market. The funding authorized in this legislation could help boost demand for the emergency vehicles Spartan Motors builds at its facility in Charlotte, Michigan.

“Congressman Schauer’s support of this bill is critical to the health and well-being of America,” said John E. Sztykiel, President and CEO for Spartan Motors, Inc. “Every 1.25 seconds there is a call for help and the fire department is invariably the first line of response.”

The bill has been endorsed by the International Association of Fire Chiefs, the International Association of Fire Fighters, and the National Volunteer Fire Council.

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Local doctors comment on health care reform

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

In case you missed it in today's Voice of the People, two doctors from Grass Lake submitted the following letter on health care reform:

Reform bill an important first step for our health

GRASS LAKE — Recently, our U.S. representative in the House, Mark Schauer, wisely voted to pass the health-care reform bill. As physicians, we and many of our colleagues, including the American Medical Association, believe that we need health-care reform badly.

With this bill, people with pre-existing conditions will not be turned away. Ninety-five percent of Americans will be able to get affordable insurance. Senior drug costs will be lower.

This bill is not perfect, but it is progress. We must begin.

— Dr. Kathleen Anzicek & Dr. Mark Leventer

Click here to learn more about why the American Medical Association is supporting the Affordable Health Care for America Act.

NEWS ROUNDUP: Health Care Town Halls

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

In case you weren't able to join the hundreds of people who attended Mark's town halls on health care reform last week, here's a roundup of news clips about these local events...

WILX: Schauer Holds Health-Care Town Hall
After 30 forums, it never gets easier; especially not this week, as he answers the big question: Why did he vote for the House's health care bill? "I voted for this bill because, fundamentally, our system is broken," Schauer responded. Specifically, he notes the House bill would: 1. Cover 96 percent of Americans 2. Provide subsidies to those who can't afford their premiums 3. Bar insurers from denying coverage for pre-existing conditions. (Video clip)

WLNS: Supporters, Opponents Pack Health Care Town Hall
Hundreds show up to discuss a topic that's divided the nation. Congressman Mark Schauer held a town hall meeting in Delta Township for his constituents. People who attended had the chance to voice their concerns and ask questions. The bill has already passed the house, but more than two hundred people showed up to talk health care. It was a divided room. Dozens are backing Schauer for his support for health care reform, agreeing with the congressman that the current system is broken and that it's time someone steps in to fix it... Schauer says it's time for all Americans to have access to quality and affordable health care. Mark Schauer, (D) Congressman: "The bill would take pressure, cost pressure, off of the businesses that are drowning under rising health care premiums. Individuals who have lost a job would be assured that either they can afford coverage through Medicaid program, which would have expanded eligibility or through affordable credits or subsidies to help them buy a policy." (Video clip)

WWMT: Town hall meeting brings forth opinions on both sides of health care
On Thursday, Schauer was back in West Michigan talking about the plan, and his vote. The First Baptist Church in Battle Creek was filled on Thursday with people on both sides of the issue as the health care reform debate rages on. Nearly a hundred constituents from Rep. Schauer's 7th district filled the pews of the church to talk with Schauer, who was among the 220 Democrats who helped pass the bill. "The decision became easy for me," said Rep. Schauer. "After listening to my constituents and they keep falling behind and becoming less economically competitive with the status quo." (Video clip)

ENQUIRER: Schauer: Health reforms will benefit district
"It's clear that there is polarization around this issue," Schauer responded. He went on to say that his vote was influenced by stories he heard from throughout the district about people and businesses struggling with health care costs. One example he gave was a woman without insurance who was told she had to pay $3,500 up front before receiving a breast cancer biopsy. "These are the people I'm fighting for," Schauer said, bringing applause from many people in the audience.

FREE PRESS: Schauer confident health-care bill won't hike deficit
First term U.S. Rep. Mark Schauer said today he wouldn’t have voted for controversial health care legislation last weekend if he thought it would lead to a government-run health system or increase the deficit. Speaking to a well-attended but orderly town hall meeting in a hotel west of Lansing, Schauer repeatedly assured skeptics the legislation will have a net positive effect on the government’s balance sheet over the next 10 years. Schauer said the legislation, which passed with a two-vote margin early Sunday morning, was needed because the nation’s current health care system is broken and unsustainably expensive.

CIT PAT: Rep. Schauer listens to concerns on health-care reform at Jackson town hall gathering
The afternoon town-hall meeting at the Lily Missions Center was his fourth in a three-day span. It was by turns contentious and educational for the standing-room-only crowd. "My commitment ... going forward is to have productive conversations about fixing our broken health-care system," said Schauer, D-Battle Creek, who is serving his first term in Washington. Schauer offered an overview of the health-care system and explained what is and isn't in the House version of the bill. Undocumented aliens would not be eligible for coverage; no tax dollars would be used for abortions and there are no "death panels," he said. He said the bill does prevent people from being denied coverage due to pre-existing conditions, and children can stay on their parents' insurance through their 27th birthday. The bill allows for the sale of insurance across state lines through interstate compacts, which could not begin until 2015.

DAILY TELEGRAM: Health care legislation discussed at forum
A good number of skeptics populated Dominican Hall on Saturday morning as U.S. Rep. Mark Schauer, D-Battle Creek, hosted a town hall meeting at Siena Heights University to talk about the health care bill that has passed the U.S. House... Gools said the AARP celebrated passage of the measure. He noted that health care represents one of the greatest threats to the welfare of the people... Charles Gehrke, a Tecumseh-area doctor, said the call to reform the nation’s health care system was first made in 1952 by President Harry Truman. “We are way past due to address this question,” he said. “The questions and the concerns that people have addressed this morning are very real, there’s no question about it. But on balance, the bill does many many things that have to be done. ... I appreciate your support, not because I agree with everything, but certainly it helps to open the discussion.”

Why Michigan needs health care reform

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Throughout my career, I’ve cast votes on bills that were a close call for me. After talking to thousands of families, small business owners, seniors and health care providers at dozens of local meetings, it became clear to me that our current health care system is broken and must be fixed.‬‪

That’s why, after reading the Affordable Health Care for America Act cover to cover, my recent vote to pass this historic legislation wasn’t a close call. Michigan simply can’t afford to wait for health care reform.‬‪

This bill will offer every American access to quality, affordable health insurance, strengthen Medicare for seniors by closing the prescription drug donut hole, and lower health care costs for businesses to help them compete. Additionally, this fiscally responsible plan will reduce the federal budget deficit by $109 billion over the next decade.

Doing nothing is simply not an option.‬‪ Families and businesses are drowning under rising health care costs. Since 2000, health costs for small businesses have skyrocketed 129%, and premiums for families have doubled while wages have only gone up 3%. In 2008, there were 1,600 health care-related bankruptcies locally, and this year more than 176,900 Michiganders lost their health insurance due to the economic crisis.‬‪

Without taking action, health costs for Michigan families will continue to rise by $1,800 each year. Seniors will keep falling into the prescription drug donut hole. Businesses will continue to face double digit premium increases annually, costing us jobs. And rising costs will keep adding to the deficit.‬‪ The status quo is simply unsustainable.‬‪

For families, this bill will lower medical costs and offer peace of mind by preventing health insurance companies from denying coverage due to 'pre-existing conditions' or the loss of a job. In our congressional district, 36,000 uninsured residents will finally be covered, and 442,000 workers will see improved employer-based coverage.‬‪

For 9,600 seniors in our area, it will offer greater security by closing the prescription drug donut hole. It will also eliminate co-payments for preventive services and extend the life of the Medicare Trust Fund for 109,000 local beneficiaries.‬‪

For 12,100 local small businesses – like the one my wife and I own – the bill offers tax credits and access to affordable group rates through a health insurance exchange, which will lower costs and allow entrepreneurs to re-invest in their business and create jobs.‬‪

But don’t take my word for it. Nonpartisan groups like AARP, Consumers Union, the American Medical Association, American Nurses Association, and the National Farmers’ Union support this legislation.

For me it’s not a close call – this is the plan we need to fix our broken health care system and get our economy back on track.‬‪ In this great country, the alternative is simply unsustainable, unaffordable, and unacceptable.

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Photos from today's town hall in Battle Creek

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Thanks to everyone who was able to join me for this morning's town hall on health care reform in Battle Creek. In case you weren't able to join us, you can see a few pictures from today's town hall on our website.

Here's an excerpt from the Battle Creek Enquirer's coverage of the event:

Today Congressman Mark Schauer defended his vote in favor of heath care reform by saying it will help insure an additional 36,000 people in Michigan's 7th Congressional District and increase employer-based benefits for an estimated 400,000 district residents.

"At the end of the day it was a pretty easy decision," Schauer told about 100 people gathered for a town hall meeting at First Baptist Church in Battle Creek.

If you live in Eaton County, hopefully you can join us for our town hall in Delta Township tomorrow afternoon. You can find more information by clicking here.

Also, in case you missed it, you can see part of my interview with the Tecumseh Herald on health care reform by watching the video below:

Schauer to host health care town hall with Lenawee County residents this Saturday

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

WHO: Congressman Mark Schauer (D-MI)
Steve Gools, Sr. State Director, Michigan AARP
Erin Knott, Assistant Director, Michigan Citizen Action
Jeff Breslin, President, Michigan Nurses Association
Lenawee County residents

WHAT: Town hall meeting on the Affordable Health Care for America Act

WHEN: Saturday, November 14, 10:00-11:30am

WHERE: Siena Heights University, Dominican Hall Auditorium
1247 E. Siena Heights Drive, Adrian

WHY: Since June, Congressman Schauer has hosted 29 meetings with consumers, businesses and health care professionals on health insurance reform legislation. Last Saturday, Schauer supported a bill in the U.S. House of Representatives that will offer every single American access to quality, affordable health insurance, strengthen Medicare for seniors by closing the prescription drug donut hole, and lower health care costs for Michigan businesses to help them compete. At Saturday’s town hall meeting, the Congressman will share information about what’s in the bill for Michigan and answer questions from local residents.

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Schauer to host health care town hall with Jackson & Hillsdale County residents this Saturday

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

WHO: Congressman Mark Schauer (D-MI)
Steve Gools, Sr. State Director, Michigan AARP
Erin Knott, Assistant Director, Michigan Citizen Action
Jeff Breslin, President, Michigan Nurses Association
Jackson & Hillsdale County residents

WHAT: Town hall meeting on the Affordable Health Care for America Act

WHEN: Saturday, November 14, 2:00-3:30pm

WHERE: Lily Missions Center
1117 WG Wade Drive, Jackson - 2 blocks south of E. Michigan off Page Ave

WHY: Since June, Congressman Schauer has hosted 29 meetings with consumers, businesses and health care professionals on health insurance reform legislation. Last Saturday, Schauer supported a bill in the U.S. House of Representatives that will offer every single American access to quality, affordable health insurance, strengthen Medicare for seniors by closing the prescription drug donut hole, and lower health care costs for Michigan businesses to help them compete. At Saturday’s town hall meeting, the Congressman will share information about what’s in the bill for Michigan and answer questions from local residents.

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Schauer to host health care town hall with Eaton County residents this Friday

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

WHO: Congressman Mark Schauer (D-MI)
Eric J. Schneidewind, President, Michigan AARP
Erin Knott, Assistant Director, Michigan Citizen Action
Jeff Breslin, President, Michigan Nurses Association
Eaton County residents

WHAT: Town hall meeting on the Affordable Health Care for America Act

WHEN: Friday, November 13, 2:00-3:30pm

WHERE: Days Inn (Formerly Best Western)
7711 W Saginaw Hwy, Lansing (Delta Twp)

WHY: Since June, Congressman Schauer has hosted 29 meetings with consumers, businesses and health care professionals on health insurance reform legislation. Last Saturday, Schauer supported a bill in the U.S. House of Representatives that will offer every single American access to quality, affordable health insurance, strengthen Medicare for seniors by closing the prescription drug donut hole, and lower health care costs for Michigan businesses to help them compete. At Friday’s town hall meeting, the Congressman will share information about what’s in the bill for Michigan and answer questions from local residents.

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