WASHINGTON, DC – This week, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) introduced a Resolution (S.Res.170) calling for Congress to ensure that all children benefit from national health reform. Specifically, the Resolution expresses the sense of the Senate that no child should be left worse off, particularly the most vulnerable low-income children and children with disabilities.
In addition, the legislation calls for a strengthening our nation’s Medicaid program so that that low-income children are not moved into a health care exchange system that could disrupt and diminish their benefits, access to supports, services, and safety-net providers.
“Senator Casey understands that children have special health care needs that must be addressed to ensure they grow up to lead healthy futures,” said Bruce Lesley, President of First Focus, a bipartisan children’s advocacy organization supporting the Resolution. “One size health care reform does not fit all. Children need different benefits, coverage levels, and they have special needs that may not be addressed in an adult health plan. Coverage needs to be comprehensive, age-appropriate and provide health care services that children need. The Senators introducing this important legislation should be applauded for ensuring policies written for the adult population do not limit benefits in the long run for children.”
The resolution was cosponsored by Senators Chris Dodd (D-CT), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Bernie Sanders (I-VT).