Statement of Congressman John D. Dingell, Chairman
Committee on Energy and Commerce

FLOOR STATEMENT OF THE HONORABLE JOHN D. DINGELL ON VETO OVERRIDE OF H.R. 976 THE “CHILDREN’S HEALTH INSURANCE REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2007”

October 18, 2007

Today we confront an awesome responsibility to do what is right for America’s children. This debate is, and has been, about one thing: health care for kids.

Some have tried to change the subject, obfuscating this debate with misconceptions, half-truths, and outright lies. Whether this is ignorance or malfeasance, allow me to help them understand the legislation.

First, this bill terminates the coverage of adults under the CHIP program. Terminates.

Second, this bill prohibits the use of Federal funds for illegal aliens. Section 605 plainly states, “No Federal Funding for Illegal Aliens.

Third, this bill is fully paid for and will not increase the national debt. In fact, CBO estimates this bill, if enacted, will return money to the Treasury.

The legislation before us would provide health insurance coverage for 10 million needy children. It provides funding for States to enroll millions of low-income children who are already eligible for benefits yet remain uninsured. Under current law, these boys and girls are entitled to their benefits. Continuing to not provide them with coverage is a travesty.

I am not alone in this view. Former Surgeons General for Presidents Carter, Reagan, Bush, Clinton, and the current President, recently wrote in support of this legislation, the following:

"We . . . implore you to not put off the health needs of our nation’s children. Please act today."

This legislation has the strong backing of the entire medical community and children’s advocates. Educators, school administrators, and school boards across the Nation want CHIP enacted because they know children cannot learn if they are not well. More than 300 organizations and a long list of distinguished individuals, including two-thirds of the United States Senate, support this bipartisan bill.

I urge my colleagues to act today to provide a healthy future for America’s children. Vote to override this misguided veto.