Washington, DC –  Congressman Joe Baca (D-Rialto) released the following statement today, after the vote to override President Bush’s veto of the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) reauthorization fell short of the two-thirds majority needed for passage.  The bill would have extended health coverage to 10 million children across the nation, and more than 600,000 children in the state of California who are currently uninsured.

“Today is a sad day for working families in the Inland Empire and across our nation.  The President’s veto on December 12th denied extending health coverage to ten million children of lower-income families, just as the country began experiencing an economic downturn, with families increasingly struggling with the costs of heat, food, gas and health care.  And by voting to uphold this veto, Congressional Republicans have continued to block care for America’s most vulnerable citizens, our children.”

“This is particularly troubling in the Inland Empire, where the unemployment rate of 6.2% is well above the national average.  Sadly, there are already 33,000 uninsured children living in my district.  And as more parents face unemployment – more children will be left without insurance.   The American people deserve better from our President.”

“Democrats in Congress remain committed to health insurance for children whose parents cannot afford it.  I will continue to fight for SCHIP because it works.  The program saves lives, not only in the 43rd District but throughout our nation.  Every child, no matter how rich or poor, deserves the proper care to live a healthy, productive life. ”