I want to commend Senator Baucus for his leadership in moving the debate forward on health reform. As unemployment rises and more and more families lose access to affordable healthcare coverage, it is essential that the federal government take action.

Senator Baucus’s proposal wisely builds upon key public programs such as Medicaid and the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). These vital programs serve as the cornerstone of our health care system. During this economic turmoil, it is essential that we maintain and strengthen these important lifelines to our nation’s children.