Gov. Corzine unveils health insurance plan for children

Gov. Jon Corzine announced Wednesday an initiative to help middle-income families get affordable health care for their children.
The health plan, called Healthy Kids ? Healthy New Jersey, is the result of a partnership between the state and Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey. Under the plan, families of four, whose income is more than $72,275 will be able to purchase affordable health care coverage for their children. Families will pay monthly premiums of $137 for one child, $274 for two children and $411 for three or more children.
According to Corzine, the plan will relieve any burden on taxpayers since their taxes will not be contributing to it.
Healthy Kids ? Healthy New Jersey is a branch of FamilyCare, the state?s current health insurance plan for lower income families. Under Healthy Kids ? Healthy New Jersey, children will have access to services like prescription medication, immunizations and hospitalization.
About 250,000 children in New Jersey are without health insurance. Corzine says up to 60,000 children will benefit under the plan.
The plan will be available to families in January.