Congress is moving very quickly to pass health care reform legislation. The Senate HELP Committee has already voted its version out of committee; however, we are still waiting for the Senate Finance Committee to share its part of the reform measures, which will be a major portion as it has jurisdiction over Medicaid and Medicare. On the House side, two of the three committees have finished with their portion of the America's Affordable Health Choice Act (H.R. 3200); the Energy and Commerce committee is marking up the bill this week.

We especially commend the actions of the House Committee on Ways and Means for including the home visitation program and the Education and Labor Committee for including Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Testing (EPSDT) services in each of their respective bills.

Michigan's children are losing health care insurance at significant rates: 6.2 percent in 2007 compared to 4.7 percent in 2006 were uninsured. With the continued job loss, economic recession, and rising health care costs this trend will continue. Health care reform is increasingly important for Michiganders.

It is certain that Congress is going to pass measures around health care. We must not miss our opportunity to ensure that children-and everyone-have access to high-quality, affordable coverage, including the approximately 160,000 uninsured Michigan children and the many others who are not receiving the care they need to grow and thrive.

There are no do-overs for childhood. Let's make sure Congress gets health care reform right the first time. It is urgent that you contact our Congressional delegation now, especially members of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. Find out more in our July 21 Action Alert.