Congressman Ed Perlmutter’s Statement Regarding President’s Veto of CHIP

October 3, 2007

Today, Rep. Ed Perlmutter released the following statement after the President’s veto of legislation reauthorizing the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

“I continue to be disappointed by President Bush and his unwillingness to prioritize critical domestic issues like providing health insurance to millions of uninsured, low-income children throughout this nation.

“Last week, I voted with an overwhelming bipartisan majority in both the House and the Senate to approve of a plan reauthorizing CHIP, a plan that would allow 60,000 more uninsured, low-income children in Colorado to receive health insurance. Our children represent the future of this country, and it is our duty to provide them with healthcare.

“Despite the backing of an overwhelming majority of the American public, by vetoing this bill, the President continues to play politics, this time with our children’s health. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in the House and Senate to vote to override President Bush’s veto, and provide access to healthcare for millions of children across this nation”.