ace....I've never claimed to be an expert on SCHIP, but I've taken the time to learn about the program in light of the ongoing debate between Congress and the WH because I think its an important public policy issue.
I'm sorry you are not interested in doing same and learning how the program works, including the safeguards to minimize (not prevent completely) cheats, frauds and abusers.
Using your NJ example, do you really believe that a person would quit a $60,000 job because the insurance premiums are $3,000/year in order to take a job at a lower salary with a company that offers no insurance....simply to quality for SCHIP? If the new job paid less than $57,000...it would be a net loss for that worker.
BTW, I know there are cheats and abusers of most government programs. Bu t there is no evidence that these cheats represent even a sizable minority of the participants.
I have to admit....this one from the floor of the House yesterday made me laugh:
Congress and the WH will negotiate a compromise SCHIP bill in the next few weeks, because the program, despite its shortcomings, has demonstrated proven success recognized by both sides of the aisle and by all those who have some personal connection with the program.
It will probably be in the range of $14-$15 billion, the amount the non-partisan CBO reported was necessary to maintain current level of program eligibility.