AARP JOINS GOVERNOR AND LT. GOVERNOR TO PROMOTE
PRESCRIPTION DRUG PROGRAM SIGN-UP

	KANSAS CITY, MO - AARP Missouri has joined forces with Governor Bob Holden and Lt. Governor Joe Maxwell in staging three news conferences to announce the enrollment period to encourage eligible older citizens to sign up for the Missouri SenioRx Program. AARP Missouri is sponsoring the news conferences because it was instrumental in getting prescription drug legislation passed that gives financial assistance to older adults needing medications. 
	
	According to Bob Schmalfeld, AARP volunteer state advocacy coordinator, the informational tour is necessary because there is a window of only two months for eligible Missourians to apply for the SenioRx Program.  "There are certain requirements that must be met by applicants and their applications are accepted only from January 1 through February 28," Schmalfeld states. "We are also concerned that not everyone is apprised of this program that will give peace of mind to many."
	
	Both Gov. Holden and Lt. Gov. Maxwell are supportive of the SenioRx Program and will participate in the statewide news conferences. Lt. Gov. Maxwell will make remarks at the news conferences in Kansas City and Jefferson City, and Gov. Holden will be present at the St. Louis news conference.
	
	"We are delighted that not only will our top government officials be a part of these activities, but so will members of the Missouri SenioRx Commission, program administrators, and beneficiaries of the 2002 program," says Norma Collins, AARP associate state director for advocacy. "We have also invited representatives of the Governor's Advisory Council on Aging, Silver Haired Legislature and other organizations to join us as we promote this vital program."
	
	In 2001, AARP joined with the Coalition for Affordable Prescriptions for Seniors (CAPS) to support the Governor's Senior Prescription Drug Task Force Report that proposed a comprehensive prescription coverage program for seniors in the state. During a special session of the Missouri General Assembly, the legislation was passed on September 11, 2001. The program became law in 2002 and more than 30,000 eligible participated. "It is our goal to considerably increase the number of participants in 2003 by getting the word out earlier and the news conferences are integral to that plan," Schmalfeld explained.