SENATE MEMORIAL 16

48th legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - first session, 2007

INTRODUCED BY

Kent L. Cravens

A MEMORIAL

URGING CONGRESS TO REAUTHORIZE AND ADEQUATELY FUND THE STATE CHILDREN'S HEALTH INSURANCE PROGRAM.

     WHEREAS, the health of New Mexico's children is of paramount importance to families in the state; and

     WHEREAS, the poor health of children is a threat to the educational achievement and social and psychological well-being of the children of New Mexico; and

     WHEREAS, protecting the health of children is essential to the well-being of the youngest citizens and the quality of life in the state; and

      WHEREAS, the state children's health insurance program is an integral part of the arrangements for health benefits for the children of the state of New Mexico; and

     WHEREAS, the value of the state children's health insurance program in preserving child wellness, preventing and treating childhood disease, improving health outcomes and reducing overall health costs is well-recognized; and

     WHEREAS, federal funding available for the state children's health insurance program is indispensable to providing health benefits for children of modest means;

      NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that New Mexico's congressional delegation be urged to ensure the timely reauthorization and adequate funding of the state children's health insurance program; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the legislature urge the governor to use his best efforts to work with New Mexico's congressional delegation to ensure that the state children's health insurance program is reauthorized in a timely manner; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the legislature urge all components of state government to work together with educators, health care providers, social workers and parents to improve health benefits for uninsured children; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the legislature urge the governor to use his best efforts to provide meaningful assistance to help identify and enroll children who qualify for medicaid or the New Mexico state children's health insurance program; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this memorial be transmitted to the New Mexico congressional delegation and to the governor.

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