U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello 12th District of Illinois

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For Release: Friday, December 15th, 2000
Contact: David Gillies, (202) 225-5661

COSTELLO SUPPORTS BUDGET PACKAGE, INCLUDING FUNDS FOR AREA HOSPITALS, SCHOOLS AND SENIOR CENTER

WASHINGTON - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) today voted for a final Fiscal Year 2001 budget package, the passage of which marked the conclusion of the 106th Congress. While he noted that it is not a perfect agreement, Costello stressed the inclusion of money for hospitals hurt by reimbursement reductions in the 1997 Balanced Budget Act and $935,000 for construction of a senior center in St. Clair County as keys to his support.

"I would rather consider the various parts of this measure separately, as the Republican Leadership promised. However, this omnibus bill was our only choice, and on balance, it is good legislation. We have added more money for hospitals instead of Health Maintenance Organizations, which will have a positive impact on many local facilities. The new senior center will provide a variety of services, with health care assistance being a primary function. Both endeavors reflect my ongoing commitment to improve the quality of life for seniors in the 12th District," said Costello.

Included in the bill is $935,000 to help the Programs and Services for Older Persons through Southwestern Illinois College move to a new senior center. The new center will allow area seniors to receive health screenings, mental health services and general medical information, as well as legal assistance and computer and other job training.

The budget includes increased funding for class size reduction, school construction and modernization, and other education initiatives. In addition, it provides for the authorization of a cost-share agreement between the City of Alton and the Army Corps of Engineers that will allow for local reimbursement for completed riverfront improvements.

Costello noted that he hopes this will be the last omnibus bill the House will consider. That, he believes, would be a step towards bipartisan achievements in the 107th Congress.

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