One of the first steps to getting health insurance for kids that don’t have it, vetoed, even though both Republicans and Democrats supported it in Congress. Bush’s fourth veto in nearly 7 years in office.
"Of the over 43 million people nationwide who lack health insurance, 9 percent, or over 6 million, are under 18 years old."
"The Democrats who control Congress, with significant support from Republicans, passed the legislation to add $35 billion over five years to allow an additional 4 million children into the program. It would be funded by raising the federal cigarette tax by 61 cents to $1 per pack."
So basically this would of left "only" 2 millions children uninsured. Still not good of course but it would of been a start. Children deserve health care. They don’t have any way of trying to get it for themselves. Especially in the early years (but also true for ones whole life), having proper health services provided is key to future grow and development.
Only time will tell what will happen in the health care world of the US but something needs to be changed but while you wait for that, go watch Michael Moore’s new documentary Sicko.
EDIT: So I just got one in an email that this happened 2 days after "Child Health Day" on 10-1 which Bush issued presidential proclamation commemorating it.
"On this day it is also appropriate to recognize the important role the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) has played in helping poor children stay healthy . To preserve that role and ensure that poor children can get the coverage they need, SCHIP should be reauthorized."
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Bush vetoes child health insurance plan – President George W. Bush – MSNBC.com
