MN-02 : Kline Targeted to Support Colorectal Cancer Prevention

As the Healthcare Reform debate trudges on over 50,000 Americans are expected to die from colorectal cancer. These deaths occur because of the lack of early detection and treatment.

We have heard John Kline (R-MN-02) state 80% of healthcare reform has bi-partisan support … well, Mr. Kline, it’s time for you to weigh in on HR 1189 , The Colorectal Cancer Prevention, Early Detection and Treatment Act Sponsored by Representative Kay Granger (R-TX) and Representative Patrick Kennedy (D-RI). Prominent members of the Republican Study Committee are co-sponsors including Rodney Alexander (LA-5), Joe Barton (TX-06), Brian Bilbray (CA-50), Dan Burton (IN-05), Thaddeous McCotter (MI-11), Mac Thornberry (TX-13) and others … as well as Minnesotans Betty McCollum, Jim Oberstar, and Collin Peterson (all Democrats.)

Today, Mr. Kline heard a person appeal from advocates for this legislation asking for his support.

This is the type of legislation that should be a no-brainer. It’s limited in scope, it’s reasonable in dollar amount, and it requires participation by the states. This is not a give-away … this is not government takeover … in fact it conforms to the Preamble of the U.S. Constitution as it will "promote the general Welfare" of the citizens.

The bill would authorize $50 million in funding for grants to public and nonprofit organizations. The grants would be used to carry out programs that will provide vital colorectal cancer screenings, information and follow-up services to those ages 50-64, with a focus on those most at risk, such as poor, low-income, uninsured, underinsured and racial and ethnic minority men and women.
The investment could result in the savings of $15 billion in Medicare … a hefty payback.
The states would be required to provide 1/3 of the funding to get the federal dollars.

Please call (952-808-1213) or email Mr. Kline today and tell him to co-sponsor this legislation.