[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 144 (Wednesday, September 26, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1982]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    CHILDREN'S HEALTH INSURANCE PROGRAM REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2007

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                               speech of

                           HON. BOB ETHERIDGE

                           of north carolina

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 25, 2007

  Mr. ETHERIDGE. Mr. Speaker, I rise reluctantly in opposition to H.R. 
976. There is no doubt that the State Children's Health Insurance 
Program, or SCHIP, which expires at the end of this fiscal year, needs 
to be reauthorized. Millions of children across the country, including 
120,000 in North Carolina's Health Choice, depend on SCHIP to provide 
cost-effective and high-quality health services. This health care makes 
a difference to the development of at-risk children and to their 
leading healthy adult lives. Unfortunately, in its current form, this 
legislation will excessively burden the Second Congressional District 
of North Carolina.
  By singling out tobacco for a huge tax increase, the provisions of 
this bill will cost North Carolina's citizens a great deal in direct 
cost increases. Researchers at North Carolina State University estimate 
that North Carolina's economy would lose at least $540 million a year 
through the tax's indirect impact as well. North Carolina's tobacco 
farmers grow a legal crop. These hard-working farm families have 
suffered greatly from transformations in the global economy. Because my 
district is the second largest tobacco producing district in the 
country, this bill disproportionately affects my constituents who work 
hard to be able to pay their bills and provide a better life for their 
children. This just doesn't pass the fairness test.
  I have been a long-time supporter of SCHIP. As a member of the House 
Budget Committee, I am proud that we provided for an increase of $50 
billion for SCHIP, not just the $35 billion reflected in the compromise 
we are considering today. I support reauthorizing and strengthening 
SCHIP, but North Carolina's citizens pay more than their share for the 
benefits they receive in this bill.
  Mr. Speaker, I want children to receive the health care they need. 
However, as the bill stands, I must vote no today, and hope that we can 
come up with a better, more balanced plan in the future.

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