Kids First!

There are 137,000 uninsured children in the state of Maryland.  90,000 of them qualify for health insurance today.  As the wealthiest state in America, we should be first in the nation at ensuring coverage for our kids.  Instead, we rank thirty-first among our fifty states.  There is no excuse for nearly ten percent of our children to remain uninsured.  Sadly, this is the situation that faces us now, but with the passage of the Kids First Act (HB 1391) we can change this, and put the state on the road towards health insurance for all of our children. 

Sample Letter for Campaign

Subject: Kids First Act (HB 1391)

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

I am writing you today to urge your strong support of Delegate Heather Mizeur's Kids First Act (HB 1391). I understand that there is limited time in this year's General Assembly Session, but it is imperative that this legislation pass the Senate before April 7, as we simply cannot wait.

There are over 137,000 uninsured children in our state and this legislation will make make huge strides to cover the already eligible 90,000 kids, but also look at solutions to cover the other 50,000 uninsured children. By matching family responsibility with renewed state commitment, the Kids First Act creates a road map for reaching universal child care coverage.

The House of Delegates passed this bill with huge bipartisan support out of the House with a 128-10 vote. We urge the Senate to do the same. Thank you for your time and support.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
March 26, 2008


Background Information

Sadly, there are 137,000 children in our state that lack health insurance.  As the wealthiest state in the United States of America, we should be the first in the nation at ensuring coverage for our kids.  Although we are one of the best states for eligibility, this is far from the case for enrollment.  Sadly, we rank thirty-first among our fifty states.  This is unconscionable, and we must do better.  There is no excuse for nearly ten percent of our children to remain uninsured, especially when 90,000 of our uninsured kids are already eligible, yet unenrolled.