President George W. Bush has sent to Congress a four-year plan to offer temporary prescription drug coverage for the nation's poorest seniors until Medicare can be overhauled. This program, called Immediate Helping Hand, is based on the $48 billion proposal Bush promoted while campaigning, and he said he was willing to see the proposal integrated into broader Medicare reform if lawmakers acted quickly. "If they're going to drag their feet, then I feel that it's very important for us to have Immediate Helping Hand."

The $48 billion would be given to states, which must match the funds, over four years to cover prescription drug costs for low income elderly—singles with incomes of less than $11,300 per year and couples with incomes of less than $14,600. Seniors in a slightly higher income bracket—$14,600 for singles and $19,700 for couples—would be eligible for partial coverage.