What's Happening
September 2008
(9/23/08)
Governor Schwarzenegger Signs State Budget with Serious Implications for Children's Health Coverage
The Legislature passed a state budget that rejected the Governor's proposed eligibility decreases for parents and lawful immigrants. However, they did establish mid-year renewals for children, which the state estimates will result in 175,000 children losing their coverage by 2010. In addition, premiums in Healthy Families were increased by $2 to $3 per child, per month.• Governor Schwarzenegger Signs State Budget with Budget Reform, Press Release, September 23, 2008
• Legislature Passes Budget that Reverses a Decade of Progress in Covering Uninsured California Children, 100% Campaign and PICO Press Release, September 16, 2008
(9/19/08)
CCF Report: Nineteen States Moved Forward in 2008
Many states are moving forward to cover children and some are closing in on the finish line, ensuring that all children have the health coverage they need. Efforts in 2008 to cover children occurred within a diverse group of states, including those in all regions of the country, in both urban and rural areas, and in states with leadership on both sides of the political aisle. This positive activity on behalf of children continues a four-year trend.• States Moving Forward: Children's Health Coverage in 2007-08
(9/4/08)
Kentucky Reaches Out to 35,000 Eligible but Unenrolled Children
On September 3, 2008, Governor Beshear (D) announced an initiative to reach an additional 35,000 eligible, but uninsured children in Kentucky. Starting November 1, 2008, the state will no longer require a face-to-face interview at enrollment, allowing families to apply by mail. The application itself will also be simplified and available online. The state will also implement measures designed to improve retention and outreach.• Op-Ed: Reversing Course on Children's Health, Louisville Courier-Journal, September 14, 2008
• Beshear Cuts Red Tape for Kids' Health Insurance, Lexington Herald-Leader, September 4, 2008
• Beshear Announces Plan to Enroll More Children in Health Insurance Program, Press Release, September 3, 2008
(9/3/08)
States Cover More Uninsured Children and Families
On September 1, 2008, two states, New York and New Jersey, implemented eligibility expansions for children and families. New York expanded eligibility in Child Health Plus (SCHIP in the state) from 250% to 400% of the FPL, using state-only funds. In New Jersey, parent eligibility was increased from 133% to 200% of the FPL in NJ FamilyCare.• New York Child Health Plus
• New Jersey FamilyCare
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