Lawmakers calling for special session on children's health care

June 08, 2010

by Channel 2 News staff
Tuesday, June 8, 2010

ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- Four state senators are asking Gov. Sean Parnell to call a special session to address Denali Kid Care.

Parnell vetoed an expansion to the program last Thursday, saying he had just recently learned that Denali Kid Care pays for abortions.

Tuesday, Sens. Hollis French, Bettye Davis, Johnny Ellis and Bill Wielechowski asked Parnell to reconsider his decision and call a special session where lawmakers could pass the legislation again.

The lawmakers say Parnell is playing politics with children's and pregnant women's health, and say that 1,300 children and more than 200 pregnant women will not be eligible for Denali Kid Care because of his decision.

"I don't believe Governor Parnell when he says that he didn't understand the legislation," said French in a release. "I think he needs to explain the real reason he vetoed Senate Bill 13, which he supported."

Parnell's office says he will not call a special session, but lawmakers are able to call one on their own.

This is a developing story. Check back at KTUU.com and watch the News Hour for more information.

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