Colorado Governor Ritter Statement On President's SCHIP Veto

Oct. 3, 2007 -- Colorado Governor Bill Ritter issued the following statement today regarding President Bush's SCHIP veto:

"At a time when the entire country is focused on finding ways to provide health coverage to the uninsured, and at a time when even Congress has come together and found bipartisan common ground over this issue, President Bush's priorities are just plain wrong.

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"States need maximum flexibility to determine how to address the particular needs of their most vulnerable populations, especially our children. With his veto, President Bush has put up a road block that interferes with our ability to improve health care in this country. The veto also undercuts our efforts to provide coverage to the 180,000 Colorado children who lack health insurance.

"Fortunately, the veto is not an insurmountable road block. I urge Congress to override the President's veto as quickly as possible.

"A budget - whether a state budget or a federal budget - should reflect our values. We should value our kids enough to invest in their health care and ensure a healthier future for our state and our nation.

Source: Colorado Governor