I am very interested in President Clinton's proposal to offer new options for health care coverage for people under the age of 65. I am always concerned about the health care for my constituents, particularly since there is a significant aging population in Florida. This new proposal will enable people age 62 to 65 years to buy into Medicare by paying a full premium. It also provides vulnerable, displaced workers over the age of 55 access to Medicare by offering them health care coverage through a similar, but higher premium buy-in option. Another initiative I support is the child care for working families proposal.
Child care is one of the most compelling issues that faces our country.
Working mothers and low-income families, and all families with children need to be able to access safe and affordable child care. This proposal would give tax credits to poor and working families for child care costs, as well as credits to businesses to help their employees with child care. Support from the employer can make a tremendous difference in an employee's life. One of the most important components in this proposal is Head Start, which would be enhanced through an early learning fund, as well as through enhanced support for parents. Investing in our children is the most cost-efficient use of our resources, because these are investments in our future.