Health and Human Services Secretary Leavitt talked about the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP). The Senate began debate later in the day on a bill that will serve as the vehicle for language reauthorizing the program. The measure would expand the program by about $35 billion over five years through an increase in the federal tax on tobacco products. The expansion is estimated to provide coverage for an additional 10 million uninsured children in low-income families. It also would phase out coverage for adults by October 2009. The House may also take up similar legislation the next week before it leaves for the August break. Secretary Leavitt responded to telephone calls and electronic mail.