Rep. Johnson Votes to Override SCHIP Veto Again

Press Release

Rep. Johnson Votes to Override SCHIP Veto Again

Economic slump may render more uninsured Georgia children at risk

Rep. Hank Johnson voted yesterday to again support the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) and to override the President's veto which threatens 10 million uninsured children. SCHIP funds Georgia's PeachCare program.

"The President is blocking 3.8 million children who need the insurance coverage provided by this bill from enrolling," said Rep. Johnson. "His second veto is placing an additional strain on the hardworking families who are struggling to pay for heat, food, gas and health care. Yet, he has no problem spending $10 billion per month to fund his war in Iraq."

The legislation vetoed by the President provided a $35 billion expansion of the SCHIP program and would have provided health care coverage to 10 million children. The existing program was extended until March 2009 but, without this legislation, 3.8 million eligible, low-income children will not be covered.

"In this failing economy, more parents are having difficulty finding health insurance for their children. When jobs are lost, typically so are the family medical benefits. The SCHIP program is more critical than ever and I am committed to insuring every child who needs it," said Johnson.

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