Frank Pallone: “December is a month of holidays, holidays about families; Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights; Kwanzaa about family…”

“December is a month of holidays, holidays about families; Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights; Kwanzaa about family traditions. At this time of year I always think about my children when they were little, their beautiful faces staring into the creche at the baby Jesus. But during this special time, the very best present we could give 4 million children in this country is the gift of health care. Every parent knows that quality health care is the foundation for a happy and successful life. Sadly, at this special time, Congress is denying this gift to 4 million children who are eligible right now under the SCHIP program but are not enrolled. Although the House and Senate passed great legislation that would have expanded the coverage to these children, the President has vetoed it twice. And so, reluctantly, I stand here today in full support of current law. The current SCHIP program is a great one that has worked for 10 years, one that we should all stand up for and be proud of. It will guarantee that the 6 million kids currently enrolled will not lose their health insurance until March 2009. As the new year draws close though, Madam Speaker, we must recommit ourselves to ensuring that every child in this country who is eligible for SCHIP is enrolled.”