Published in American Medical News, volume 40, number 20, May 26, 1997, page 2.

A coalition of about 150 health, anti-tobacco and child advocacy groups has launched an ad campaign in support of a bipartisan children's health insurance bill. The legislation, sponsored by Sens. Orrin Hatch (R. Utah) and Edward Kennedy (D. Mass.), would provide grants to states to reach uninsured children above Medicaid eligibility standards. A 43-cent-per-pack tobacco tax increase would fund the expansions. The coalition, Campaign for CHILD Health Now, says the measure is needed in addition to the $16 billion earmarked for expanded children's coverage in the budget agreement now before Congress. Broadcast ads will air in eight strategic states, including Mississippi, home of Senate GOP leader Trent Lott. Print ads will follow. The coalition includes the Children's Defense Fund, American Cancer Society, American Association of Retired Persons, the American Academy of Family Physicians and the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. The AMA supports the concept of expanding health insurance for children, but has not taken a position on this measure or any of the related bills now pending.