The House passed a controversial children’s healthcare bill, despite a veto threat by the president and strong opposition from Republicans. If passed, the measure would freeze Medicare Part A payments to skilled nursing facilities in fiscal year 2008.

“If the CHAMP Act becomes law in its present form, it would have severe repercussions to Medicare beneficiaries, their caregivers and nursing homes across the country,” said Alan Rosenbloom, president of the Alliance for Quality Nursing Home Care, in a news release.

The Children’s Health and Medicare Protection Act of 2007 would fund the State Children’s Health Insurance Program for five years and at the same time cut Medicare payments to skilled facilities. The Senate was expected to pass a similar but more modest bill before Congress’ August recess next week.