Congressmen urged to reconsider CHIP

The Clarion-Ledger, 10/12/7

Children’s advocates urged Mississippi congressmen Thursday to reconsider their opposition to a bill that would expand health insurance.

Their pleas came one week before lawmakers decide whether to override a veto.

All of the state’s congressional delegation except 2nd District U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson, a Democrat, voted against expanding the state Children’s Health Insurance Program. Gov. Haley Barbour also opposes it. The program provides health coverage for children who live above the poverty level but whose families cannot afford private insurance.