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Schneider Statement on House Passage of Bipartisan Funding, Avoiding Shutdown

September 23, 2020

Continuing Resolution Included Vital Relief for Health Care Providers from Schneider

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10) released the following statement on last night's passage of the Continuing Resolution to fund the government and avoid a government shutdown. The funding included language supporting Illinois health care providers.

"Last night, Members of the House from both sides of the aisle came together to avert a government shutdown and make sure that critical services are maintained through the fall. In this time of seemingly constant partisan division, we managed to navigate a major hurdle that has snared many previous Congresses. Not only did we fund the government, but we also provided $8 billion in nutrition assistance for hungry schoolchildren and families, and saved seniors from a $50 per month Part B premium hike.

"I am also very pleased that I was able to successfully include language in the bill that will help Illinois health care providers, as well as many others across the nation, navigate through this health care crisis. Hospitals and doctors should remain focused on providing high quality care as they continue their fight on the front lines of the pandemic, not worrying about paying back loans at exorbitant rates."

The language included in the C.R extends both the period before repayment begins and the period before the balance must be repaid in full, reduces the recoupment percentage, and lowers the interest rate for payments made under the Medicare Accelerated and Advance Payment Programs. Schneider had previously introduced similar legislation in the Medicare Accelerated and Advance Payments Improvement Act of 2020, as well as sent a letter to HHS requesting immediate relief from the harsh repayment terms.