Frank Pallone: “Democrats have been active in trying to provide health care coverage for uninsured children, and since the last Congress…”

“Democrats have been active in trying to provide health care coverage for uninsured children, and since the last Congress Democrats developed the Families First Agenda that basically puts families first and insists that there be, as part of our legislative agenda in this Congress, a kids' health care initiative. The initiative that we have put forward was basically developed by the Democratic Health Care Task Force, which I happen to one of the co-chairs. I wanted to mention, Mr. Speaker, that our task force has held numerous meetings and hearings on the issue of kids' health insurance. Testimony has been submitted from child advocacy groups, health care providers and actual families. In addition, discussions have been held with the Health Care Financing Administration, representatives from the insurance industry and some of our Nation's Governors. Democrats have been dedicated, basically, and shown a commitment to developing a workable plan that will first build upon the foundation of Medicaid; second, provide States with additional resources to meet the health care needs of children in working families; and, third, enact private insurance reforms to make it easier for families to purchase children only policies. I have to say, Mr. Speaker, that if it were not for Democrats leading the charge on children's health care, it probably would not have been included in the budget resolution that we will be considering tomorrow in conference.”