Hoyer defends vetoed healthcare bill

House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer defended the U.S. Congress' Children's Health Insurance Program bill President George Bush vetoed this week.

The Maryland Democrat Saturday said the president's criticisms were invalid and the legislation would have strengthened the healthcare program.

"The president claims -- wrongly -- that this bill is fiscally irresponsible," Hoyer said of Bush's veto on Wednesday during the Democrats' response to the president's weekly radio address.

"The truth is, this legislation is fully paid for. It does not add one nickel to the deficit or to the debt."

Hoyer identified Bush as the lone person standing between children from poor families and health insurance.

The Democratic leader called on fellow members of Congress and U.S. citizens to take action to ensure the congressional bill has new life.

"I urge all of you: Contact your member of Congress," he said. "Ask them to support our children."  // Copyright 2007 by United Press International

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