Speech #1100111742

Mr. Speaker. I believe that SCHIP should ensure that poor kids are covered first before providing massive tax increases and coverage for adults and illegal immigrants. The Democrats SCHIP bill before us today has a 5.900 percent tax increase. It provides coverage to 500.000 adults. And it costs Federal taxpayers $3.7 billion because of illegal immigration. Let me be specific. With respect to the 5.900 percent tax increase. it takes the tax on cigars from a nickel to $3. With respect to the adults. 500.000 adults whose children are In SCHIP will still be covered. With respect to illegal immigration. $3.7 billion was provided by CBO. Since Im against that. let me tell you what Im for. Im for H.R. 3888. which provides the coverage to kids first without having tax increases or coverage for adults and illegal immigrants. Thats what we need. I urge my colleagues to support that legislation. and not the bill before us today.