Fischer v. United States, 529 U.S. 667, 27 (2000)

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Cite as: 529 U. S. 667 (2000)

Thomas, J., dissenting

operation, and purpose" of Medicare, ibid., the consequences of the Court's reasoning are far reaching. In fact, the Court candidly acknowledges that its interpretation is expansive when it reads 18 U. S. C. § 666(b) to suggest that "Congress viewed many federal assistance programs as providing benefits to participating organizations." Ante, at 678 (emphasis added). In contrast, I think that the plain language of § 666(b) reflects a congressional intent to reach only those organizations that are themselves the beneficiaries of "useful aid" or "financial help in time of sickness, old age, or unemployment," rather than organizations that merely receive funds as part of a market transaction for goods or services.

* * *

For the foregoing reasons, I respectfully dissent.

693

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