WASHINGTON - Congressman Paul E. Kanjorski (PA-11) provided the below statement on the House of Representatives' passage of H.R. 2., the State Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization, also known as SCHIP.  The bill passed by a vote of 289-139.

"This is a very promising day for American children," said Congressman Kanjorski.  "We are in tough times as people throughout the country are struggling from financial hardships.  But, during such times it is especially important to ensure the safety and well being of our children, including guaranteeing that they have health insurance.  This bill will improve health care for 11 million American children, enabling the future of our country to receive needed care at lower costs.

"While President Bush refused to extend the children's health insurance program twice in the last Congress, I have great faith that after the Senate hopefully passes the bill, that President-elect Obama will do the right thing and sign it into law."

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