Signs Of Movement In Medicaid Expansion Talks In Kansas, Utah
Analysts said that the softening of Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback's opposition and the consideration of a more restrictive plan in Utah might spur those states to expand Medicaid on a limited basis. Meanwhile, Wyoming lawmakers gut funding for critical access hospitals.
The Kansas Health Institute News Service:
Brownback Softens Stance On Medicaid Expansion
News that Gov. Sam Brownback has softened his position on Medicaid expansion wasn’t exactly racing through the Statehouse on Thursday. But it certainly had some legislators buzzing. In remarks Wednesday to conservative lawmakers in Missouri, Brownback said if the Kansas Legislature presented him with a budget-neutral expansion bill, he would likely sign it. (McLean, 3/5)
The Associated Press:
Hundreds Rally In Support Of Utah Governor's Medicaid Plan
Several hundred people gathered at the state capitol Thursday to protest a decision by lawmakers to reject the governor's Medicaid expansion plan. A slate of lawmakers, religious leaders and people with chronic health issues spoke during rally that lasted two hours. The speakers insisted that the plan introduced by Utah Republican Gov. Gary Herbert to help low-income people who don't have access to health insurance go to the House floor for a vote. (Catalfamo, 3/6)
Politico Pro:
Utah Mulls More Restrictive Expansion Compromise
Utah officials are weighing a Medicaid expansion plan that would freeze enrollment under the alternative program championed by Republican Gov. Gary Herbert and allow for a less generous program to be implemented after Healthy Utah runs its initial two-year course. (Pradhan, 3/5)
The Salt Lake Tribune:
Dems Force Healthy Utah Vote In House, Igniting Fight With GOP
House Democrats made a bold but unsuccessful move Thursday night to revive Gov. Gary Herbert's "Healthy Utah" plan to expand Medicaid for the poor — and ignited a small war with infuriated House Republicans. While the attempt failed, Democrats did manage to get a recorded vote that put all House members on the record as essentially a friend or foe of Healthy Utah. The attempt died 16-56. Rep. Justin Miller, D-Salt Lake City, made a motion to bring a Senate-passed bill, SB164, promoting the governor's plan, to the House floor even though it had been defeated in committee on Wednesday. (Davidson, 3/5)
Healthcare Finance:
Wyoming Lawmakers Gut Millions From Bill To Fund Critical Access Hospitals
The Wyoming House of Representatives this week passed a bill reducing funding for critical access hospitals treating uninsured patients from $5 million — as a Senate bill allocated — to $1 million. The measure comes as Wyoming hospitals are struggling with uncompensated care while lawmakers balk at the idea of Medicaid expansion and other financial options. (Brino, 3/5)