Union Chief Stumps for Kids’ Health Insurance Program

"Until we achieve" the "overall goal" of universal health insurance in the U.S., "we must look for ways to expand health care coverage wherever possible," such as the reauthorization and expansion of the State Children's Health Insurance Program, United Auto Workers President Ron Gettelfinger writes in a Detroit News opinion piece.

According to Gettelfinger, "Congress should provide sufficient funding so all states can enroll all children who are eligible for the federal program," and "states should be given the option to enroll pregnant women who meet the program's income guidelines." In addition, Congress should expand SCHIP to allow "children with special medical needs but limited private insurance coverage" to enroll in the program to obtain more comprehensive coverage, Gettelfinger writes.

SCHIP "is working," Gettelfinger writes, adding, "It's an effective, practical partnership between the federal government and the states, giving America's children a chance for a healthier future. Congress should renew and expand this successful program" (Gettelfinger, Detroit News, 5/4).