Maine Governor Highlights the Importance of SCHIP

August 13, 2007 -- PORTLAND - Maine Governor John E. Baldacci today reinforced his strong support for re-authorization of the federal State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). At a press conference at Maine Medical Center, the Governor praised the tireless work of Maine’s Congressional Delegation, the Maine Department of Health and Human Services and state Legislature to ensure that all Mainer’s get health care coverage.

“There is nothing more important than protecting the health and welfare of the people of Maine,” said Governor Baldacci. “Since becoming law 10 years ago, SCHIP has made a difference in millions of children’s lives across the country, and has been an important tool in Maine to expand health coverage. With programs like Dirigo and SCHIP, Maine has made great strides toward increasing access to health care for everyone. We are proud that the number of uninsured children in our state is below the national average. But we can do better on our goal making Maine the healthiest state in the nation.”

The Governor was joined at the event by representatives from the State Legislature, the Maine Children's Alliance, the American Academy of Family Physicians, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and Maine Medical Center.

Since taking office in 2003, the Governor has made access to quality health care for all Mainers a priority. He worked with legislators and stakeholders to pass Dirigo Health Reform, which expands access to affordable, high-quality health care.

More than 14,500 Maine children have health care because of SCHIP. The Governor said that without adequate funding for this valuable federal program, we are in danger of going backward in coverage. He believes this is necessary to maintain the current levels of enrollment.

The Governor urged Congress to reach a consensus on this important issue before SCHIP expires on Sept. 30.

“The current SCHIP legislation, much like the Dirigo legislation here in Maine, was the product of a very significant bipartisan agreement,” said Governor Baldacci. “As we have learned here in Maine, the noble goal of providing access to health care for those who need it most is an extremely difficult challenge, even with bipartisan support. I urge the President to recognize the effort that has gone into reaching this consensus, and sign the legislation when it reaches his desk.

“There is still a lot of hard work that needs to be done on pending SCHIP legislation. The citizens in Maine and around the country deserve quality health care. I hope that once this legislation is approved that all the children of Maine continue to receive the health care services they need.”

Source: Maine Governor

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