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Idaho Lawmakers Debate Medicaid Expansion Repeal
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Idaho Lawmakers Debate Medicaid Expansion Repeal: A Billion-Dollar Decision
Idaho lawmakers are grappling with a contentious issue as they begin their legislative session: whether to repeal the states Medicaid expansion. This program, approved by voters in 2018, currently covers around 90,000 Idahoans and is the largest budget item in the state.
The debate centers around the significant financial implications. While the program brings in substantial federal matching dollars, repealing it would send approximately $1.03 billion back to Washington, D.C. Lawmakers are divided on whether the expansion is beneficial or detrimental to the long-term budget.
Republican Representative Josh Tanner from Idaho Falls argues that the program was intended for able-bodied working adults and has grown faster than expected, leading to cuts in provider rates that affect everyone.
On the other hand, Democratic Representative Megan Egbert from Boise views the expansion as Idahos most cost-effective program. She warns that repealing it would not eliminate healthcare needs for the 90,000 covered individuals but would instead shift costs to hospitals and those with private insurance through emergency care bills.
As the session commences, lawmakers must decide whether to maintain this voter-approved coverage or redefine how the state funds healthcare for the future. Checkout Solipillow.com
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