Bill Providing Health Care Coverage For Millions Of Children Becomes Law Today

Today, legislation that will provide 11 million American children with the health insurance they need and deserve will be signed into law. Congressman Altmire has been a strong supporter of the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) Reauthorization Act (H.R. 2), which provides health care coverage to four million uninsured children while also extending coverage for the seven million kids currently enrolled in SCHIP. This legislation is fully paid for and will add nothing to the national debt.

"Today is a truly great day for America's children. Because of this new law, thousands of Pennsylvania families will now be able to provide their children with the quality health insurance they deserve," Altmire said. "For families struggling to make ends meet, this new law will make the difference and will ensure their children can continue to get their yearly check-ups. All children deserve to have the health care they need to grow into strong, healthy adults."

A report released by Families USA in January found that 220,000 children in Pennsylvania are currently uninsured. Under this new legislation, Families USA estimates that an additional 129,000 children could be covered, reducing the number of uninsured children in Pennsylvania by 59 percent.

In Pennsylvania, any child who has gone without health insurance for more than six months can obtain health insurance through SCHIP. Families can visit http://www.chipcoverspakids.com for information on how to apply or call 1-800-986-KIDS to talk to a CHIP counselor.

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