Nationally, it is known as the Children's Health Insurance Plan (CHIP). In Colorado, it is called the Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+). Both programs help families who make too much money to qualify for Medicaid, but not enough to afford private insurance.

Asthma medication that used to cost $77 per prescription is now only $1 for Lina Ortiz. Her mother says being enrolled in CHP+ has helped her family.

"We don't have medical bills anymore," said Catrina Ortiz. "We go to the emergency room, it's $3."

The CHIP program is set to expire next month. Lawmakers are urging President Bush and Congress to reauthorize the program and increase its budget.

"The senate's talking about a $35 billion increase. That's what the house talked about. We think that's the way to think about it," said Governor Bill Ritter (D-Colorado).

"That $25 billion increase we think probably does what it needs to keep up with medical inflation," said Ritter.

When CHIP was created 10 years ago, its budget was $5 billion. Some say a $35 billion increase is too steep.

"Here we have them (Democrats) asking for billions upon billions of dollars more in federal spending in health care. And it runs counter to what they were criticizing Republicans for," said Republican Party Chairman Dick Wadhams.

Instead, he suggests the governor seek the opinion of a group created to solve Colorado's health care problems.

"Colorado has this 208 Commission," said Wadhams. "Why don't we wait and see what that commission decides to recommend to the legislature, before we call on the federal government to dramatically expand the program?"

Members of congress have until September 20 to come up with a plan, including a budget. They will then present that plan to President Bush.