Fortenberry Comments on SCHIP Legislation

Washington D.C. - Congressman Jeff Fortenberry tonight commented on passage of the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP).

"Everyone agrees that children deserve proper health care. My hope was to vote on a bi-partisan bill that would prioritize coverage for our poorest and most vulnerable children. Rather, this bill expands the program to include those who may not need government health care coverage.

"I support SCHIP's renewal, but it must be done prudently. I co-sponsored separate legislation to extend the current SCHIP program for up to 18 months while increasing funding by 33%. With such an extension, Congress could have a reasonable, bi-partisan policy discussion about needed changes to strengthen the program while ensuring there is no lapse in coverage.

“Later this week, there will be a vote to provide a short-term extension of the expiring SCHIP program. This will guarantee that there is no disruption in health coverage for these vulnerable children. I support the extension.”

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