H 4089 Concurrent Resolution, By Mack, Cobb-Hunter, Fleming, Gourdine, Hayes, 
M. Hines, Howard, Keegan, Kennedy, Lee, Littlejohn, McLeod, Ott, Parks, Rhoad, 
Simrill and Talley
 A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION TO MEMORIALIZE THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES TO
 KEEP D. C. GENERAL HOSPITAL OPEN AS A PUBLIC INSTITUTION.

   05/09/01  House  Introduced HJ-36
   05/09/01  House  Referred to Committee on Invitations and Memorial
                     Resolutions HJ-36

TO MEMORIALIZE THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES TO KEEP D. C. GENERAL HOSPITAL OPEN AS A PUBLIC INSTITUTION.

Whereas, without swift action, D. C. General Hospital in our nation's capital will close as a public entity very soon. This move has generated opposition from many observers in Washington and elsewhere, including prominent medical organizations; and

Whereas, D. C. General Hospital is noted for providing life-saving services to the city's poor. The hospital stands as a symbol of the struggles and commitment of America's urban hospitals; and

Whereas, concerns over the possible closing of D. C. General Hospital have been expressed across the country. Many city health officials and policymakers see this venerable institution, which was opened in 1806, as representing the nation's commitment to providing appropriate health care services to population groups that include many patients who are minorities and many who are poor and uninsured. The thought of this hospital -- which serves as a safety net for thousands with nowhere else to turn -- shutting its doors is most disturbing to those dedicated to America's inner cities; and

Whereas, how a country treats its disadvantaged people is a significant reflection on the country's character and priorities. This is why so many people in other parts of the nation, including South Carolina, feel Congress should take actions to halt the closing of D. C. General Hospital as a public entity. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:

That the members of the South Carolina General Assembly, by this resolution, memorialize the Congress of the United States to keep D. C. General Hospital open as a public institution.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the President of the United States Senate, the Speaker of the Untied States House of Representatives, and the members of the South Carolina congressional delegation.