SACRAMENTO – Supported by children’s advocates, pediatricians, children and community and faith-based leaders during a Capitol press conference, Speaker Fabian Núñez (D-Los Angeles) today urged the Governor and Legislature to continue working toward comprehensive health reform.

“As a kid who grew up without healthcare, I know that reality – and I want it to be non-existent for the children of California,” said Speaker Núñez. “As a dad, to me that means all children. I’ve said before when it comes to kids, the only document I care about is a clean bill of health.”

Health care reform legislation covering all children and extending coverage to more than two million adults was introduced by Speaker Núñez in December. Assembly Bill 8, now co-authored by Senate President Pro Tem Don Perata, awaits action in the Senate Appropriations Committee.

“I got to thinking if parents can conceive, develop and deliver a child in nine months the three of us should at least be able to agree on a health care plan that covers the kids,” said Núñez. “Yesterday we learned there are even more uninsured children in California – and in the country – than ever before. That’s unacceptable. Agreeing to insure all kids is a great starting point. If we don’t want insurers cherry picking who they cover, we shouldn’t follow the same practice. That’s why AB 8 not only covers all kids, but extends coverage to more than two million adults as well.”

Audio Links:

Speaker Fabian Núñez says he wants California’s children today to have what he didn’t when he was child.

http://democrats.assembly.ca.gov/Newsline/Audio/20070829AB8Nunez1.mp3

Speaker Fabian Núñez says all parents should have the peace of mind that comes with health care coverage for their children.

http://democrats.assembly.ca.gov/Newsline/Audio/20070829AB8Nunez2.mp3

Speaker Fabian Núñez says all children, regardless of their status in society, should be healthy.

http://democrats.assembly.ca.gov/Newsline/Audio/20070829AB8Nunez3.mp3

Speaker Fabian Núñez says the health care crisis is getting worse and it’s unacceptable to end the legislative session without health care reform.

http://democrats.assembly.ca.gov/Newsline/Audio/20070829AB8Nunez4.mp3

Speaker Fabian Núñez says paying for health care should be a budget priority.

http://democrats.assembly.ca.gov/Newsline/Audio/20070829AB8Nunez5.mp3

Speaker Fabian Núñez says AB 8 reforms will save enough money in the system to cover the children who are currently uninsured.

http://democrats.assembly.ca.gov/Newsline/Audio/20070829AB8Nunez6.mp3