Hilda L. Solis: “today I rise very proudly in strong support of H.R. 3162, the CHAMP Act. As policymakers, we have an obligation to make…”

“today I rise very proudly in strong support of H.R. 3162, the CHAMP Act. As policymakers, we have an obligation to make sure that children who are in the program do not lose their coverage and that those who are eligible for coverage but are not enrolled receive that care. Millions of low-income children and seniors are depending on us to pass a bill so they can receive health care. The CHAMP Act will provide health care to 11 million poor children, reduce health care disparities in communities of color, and protect senior citizens who rightfully need access to their physicians. Insured children are more likely to receive cost-effective, preventative services and are healthier, which leads to greater success in school and later on in life. Although programs such as SCHIP and Medicaid have decreased the number of uninsured children, the lack of funding over the last 10 years and outreach efforts have left millions of children who are eligible from receiving this care. More than 80 percent of uninsured African American and 70 percent of uninsured Latino children are eligible currently for public coverage but are not currently enrolled. In my district alone, 18,000 children go uninsured. The bill ensures that these children will receive that health care coverage. Some would argue that this bill is a vote on immigration. I'm sorry, but they are absolutely wrong.”