[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 161 (Tuesday, October 23, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2216]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 CHILDREN'S HEALTH INSURANCE PROGRAM REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2007--VETO 
            MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. BETTY McCOLLUM

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 18, 2007

  Ms. McCOLLUM of Minnesota. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong 
support of this effort to override the President's veto of the State 
Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act.
  This legislation would provide health care coverage for 10 million 
American children, at a cost of less than $3.50 a day per child. The 
State Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act is 
supported by individuals and organizations from across the political 
and ideological spectrum. It is supported by 81 percent of Americans, 
the majority of Congress, 43 Governors, and more than 270 
organizations, including AARP, American Medical Association, and 
America's Health Insurance Plans.
  The arguments against this bill are at best distorted and at worst 
flat wrong. This legislation targets low-income children, it utilizes 
private health insurance, and it is paid for. H.R. 976 is also a 
bipartisan compromise bill created with cooperation of the House, 
Senate, health care providers, and consumers. Most importantly, 
ensuring our children have health care is the right thing to do.
  As a mom, it is unconscionable to me to choose not to provide health 
care for children in need. As a Member of Congress, I am disappointed, 
but not surprised, that this President has put politics before the 
health of America's families.
  Investing in our children's health care must be a priority. I urge my 
colleagues to join me in voting to override the President's misguided 
veto of H.R. 976.

                          ____________________