Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act of 2007 -- Veto Message From the President of the United States

Floor Speech

CHILDREN'S HEALTH INSURANCE PROGRAM REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2007--VETO MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES -- (Extensions of Remarks - October 23, 2007)

SPEECH OF HON. BETTY McCOLLUM OF MINNESOTA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2007

* Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of this effort to override the President's veto of the State Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act.

* This legislation would provide health care coverage for 10 million American children, at a cost of less than $3.50 a day per child. The State Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act is supported by individuals and organizations from across the political and ideological spectrum. It is supported by 81 percent of Americans, the majority of Congress, 43 Governors, and more than 270 organizations, including AARP, American Medical Association, and America's Health Insurance Plans.

* The arguments against this bill are at best distorted and at worst flat wrong. This legislation targets low-income children, it utilizes private health insurance, and it is paid for. H.R. 976 is also a bipartisan compromise bill created with cooperation of the House, Senate, health care providers, and consumers. Most importantly, ensuring our children have health care is the right thing to do.

* As a mom, it is unconscionable to me to choose not to provide health care for children in need. As a Member of Congress, I am disappointed, but not surprised, that this President has put politics before the health of America's families.

* Investing in our children's health care must be a priority. I urge my colleagues to join me in voting to override the President's misguided veto of H.R. 976.

Source