Alcee Hastings: “for over a decade the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) saved millions of America's low-income families…”

“for over a decade the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) saved millions of America's low-income families from suffering the consequences of living without healthcare insurance, and exemplified our nation's commitment to equal opportunity. Former President Bush twice prevented this critically important program from benefiting people who fell through the cracks of America's flawed healthcare system. Thankfully, the new Congress and Administration exercised the power and political will to make a different choice. Finally, the American people can rest assured that Congress' vote to provide healthcare coverage to 11 million low-income children will not be in vain. The Senate-amended SCHIP bill authorizes 32.8 billion dollars over 4 years to cover the 7 million children who currently rely on SCHIP, and extends coverage to more than 4 million low-income children who are currently living without healthcare. The bill also offers comprehensive and wide ranging care that includes mental, dental, prenatal and maternal health services, increases health insurance enrollment, and fights geographical health disparities by offering additional support to under-funded states.”