Statement from Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich

CHICAGO - "I applaud members of Congress for not giving up on the fight to save SCHIP, and for coming together across party lines to approve a plan that supports state efforts to make sure children have access to the healthcare they need.  In Illinois, we became the first state in the nation to ensure that all kids have access to affordable health coverage. We'll continue to make sure all children can get healthcare, but the federal government needs to do its part as well. 

 

"Healthcare should not be a luxury available only to the wealthy, and this legislation will mean millions of low and moderate-income children nationwide will have access to better quality healthcare, dental coverage and mental health services.  In Illinois alone, SCHIP has helped to provide healthcare to over 316,000 children.  I would like to thank members of Congress for putting children first and supporting the SCHIP legislation and I urge the Senate to do the same.  I'm disappointed that President Bush has announced that he plans to veto this bill.  It's time for him to join the overwhelming bipartisan majority and help us provide healthcare to uninsured children."