Washington, DC - Today, the Children's Leadership Council (CLC) expressed support for the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) and urged Congress to reauthorize the program. There is no question that the additional four million children being considered for inclusion within the program are in dire need of assistance, but much more work remains to be done to ensure that all children have access to affordable, comprehensive health care.

The CLC also reminded Congressional leaders that SCHIP is not the final solution to the problem, but the first step in what the group hopes will be a commitment by both Congress and President-elect Obama to prioritize children as one of the most important investments that can be made for our nation's future. The reauthorization of SCHIP is a solid first step, but bold action must taken to assure children's health care needs are addressed in the broader national health care reform debate.

"The fact that one in nine children does not have health care coverage is unacceptable. America must do better. The members of the CLC are encouraged that the House is moving quickly to decrease that number by almost half, and we urge the Senate to take similar swift action," said Bill Bentley, President and CEO of Voices for America's Children and a founding member of the CLC. "All children, regardless of economic status and race, must have the opportunity to grow up healthy. That means having access to affordable, quality, comprehensive health care - physical, dental, and mental health care - that addresses the unique health care needs of children. Investing in children's health care strengthens America by creating a healthy and productive workforce."

This initial investment must not only be part of a broader strategy of improving children's health, but must signal a dedication to invest in children and youth across the board. When we help children and youth grow and succeed, we are paving the way for our country's next generation of workers and leaders. For too long, programs that support America's most vulnerable children and youth have seen little or no federal investments, despite documented successes and compelling needs. Americans cannot afford to wait any longer. The CLC and its member organizations urge leaders to invest in children and youth both in the short - and long-term. It is not only the right thing to do; it is one of the smartest investments we can make for our nation's future.

The CLC is a coalition of child advocates representing 36 leading national policy and advocacy organizations, with members in every state in the nation. These groups are working everyday to improve the health, education and well-being of children and youth in order to prepare them for school, work, and life. For the first time, there is a strong, unified group of organizations speaking with one voice to achieve a singular mission - building the public awareness and creating the political will necessary to make greater federal investments in America's children and youth a reality.