New Bill Looks to Give , All US Children Medicaid.
'Newsweek' reports that a new bill introduced in the Senate looks to extend Medicaid coverage to all children in the United States.
The draft measure would reportedly enroll children in the federal health insurance program automatically.
As Americans, it is our solemn obligation to ensure every child has the support they need to reach their full potential, Bob Casey, Senior Democratic senator for Pennsylvania, via 'Newsweek'.
Currently, minors are only eligible if their family's income is 138% of the federal poverty level.
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The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) says that approximately 4.2% of children in the U.S. are currently uninsured.
'Newsweek' reports that this equates to an estimated 3.12 million minors without health insurance.
Too many of our kids are struggling to stay healthy because their families can't afford the care they need, Bob Casey, Senior Democratic senator for Pennsylvania, via 'Newsweek'.
The proposed bill would give all children health insurance until the age of 18, while giving parents the ability to opt out.
However, 'Newsweek' reports that the bill is likely to face firm opposition in the House, where GOP lawmakers have pushed to limit government spending.
The bill comes as the government faces a looming shutdown over the federal budget.
