Coleman, Klobuchar Vote to Expand Children’s Health Care

Minnesota’s two senators both voted Thursday to reauthorize the State Children’s Health Insurance Program, supporting a measure that would expand spending by $35 billion over five years.

The bill was passed by the Senate by a 68-31 vote in defiance of a threatened veto by President Bush.

Sen. Amy Klobuchar, DFL-Minn., was pleased with the vote.

“The Senate took an important step tonight by reauthorizing the Children’s Health Insurance Program, continuing coverage for more than 6 million of our nation’s children and expanding coverage to include more than 3.2 million more,” said Klobuchar in a statement.  “Our children deserve every chance to succeed, and the Children’s Health Insurance Program ensures not only their health, but their future.”

Sen. Norm Coleman, R-Minn., was more tempered in his support.  In a statement, he said that he was “pleased that the Senate has passed the reauthorization of the State Children’s Health Insurance Plan.”  But Coleman expressed concern about the version of the bill passed by the House of Representatives.

“I am concerned about the $90 billion House bill, which burdens taxpayers with a hefty price tag and leads the country towards a major expansion of government health. I disagree with those of my colleagues who seem to want the government to take control of the nation’s healthcare system and make decisions for you regarding your health. You should own and control your own health insurance, not the government,” Coleman said.