Vision Care for Kids Act of 2007

Press Release

VISION CARE FOR KIDS ACT OF 2007 -- (House of Representatives - October 15, 2007)

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Mr. MURPHY of Connecticut. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 507, the Vision Care for Kids Act of 2007.

This issue is simple, Madam Speaker, kids can't learn if they can't see. Providing early vision screening for our nation's children will make sure they are all ready to learn when they enter school and the Vision Care for Kids Act will help provide states with the means to offer this important care.

When I was in the Connecticut State Senate, I championed an initiative which made school-based vision screening a priority through the mandated reporting of pediatric vision screening on school health assessment forms. The passage of today's legislation will enhance my state's ability to enhance vision programs for children by providing a much needed federal stream of funding. Importantly, it will allow Connecticut's children to receive followup care when uninsured children are identified through my state's existing vision screening program.

The passage of today's legislation is another example of how this Congress is actively working to provide health services to our nation's children. This week, as the House contemplates whether we should provide 10 million American children with health insurance through the SCHIP program, we should take today as an opportunity to affirm our commitment to comprehensive health screening and coverage for all American children.

Madam Speaker, I urge all my colleagues to support H.R. 507 and yield back the balance of my time.

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