Child advocates also cheer his commitment to overhauling child welfare system and reducing teen smoking.

LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families lauds Gov. Mike Beebe’s call in his State of the State address for the Legislature to expand ARKids First, the state health insurance program for children.

We’re delighted that the governor agrees with the Arkansas Finish Line Coalition that ARKids First is critical to supporting vulnerable families during this economic recession.

With strong signs from Washington that there is substantial federal help headed our way to protect coverage through Medicaid and the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP), strong leadership from Gov. Beebe and our state legislators will help Arkansas children and families weather the financial storm.

Now is time to support our families and take full advantage of increased federal assistance.

AACF also supports Gov. Beebe’s call to reduce smoking rates and prevent teens from starting by raising the tobacco tax. The tax would also raise money for crucial health priorities including ARKids First, substance abuse treatment and health programs in schools.

We’re also pleased that the governor is still committed to reforming the child welfare and child mental health systems, as well as ease the financial burden on working families by further reducing the sales tax on groceries.