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Nevada governor first Republican to support Medicaid expansion under Obamacare
CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP) — Gov. Brian Sandoval said Tuesday he’ll support expanding Medicaid eligibility in Nevada as called for under the federal health care law to provide coverage for the state’s neediest residents.
In an exclusive interview with The Associated Press, Sandoval said expanding coverage will add 78,000 residents to the state’s Medicaid rolls, but save the state $16 million in mental health programs that otherwise would be paid for out of the state general fund.
The first-term Republican governor said while he opposed the health care law, his decision will help tens of thousands of people. About 22 percent, or 604,000 Nevadans, are uninsured.
He added that his budget to be released to lawmakers in January will propose reducing taxes paid by small businesses to help them afford insurance coverage for their employees. He will also ask the Legislature to support a “cost-sharing” copayment for recipients who receive Medicaid services.
“I don’t think it’s any secret I’ve never been an advocate for the Affordable Care Act,” Sandoval said.
But after weighing the options, he said it was in the state’s best interest to expand coverage for the poor.
“It would cost the state $16 million more not to opt in,” he said.
U.S. Sen. Harry Reid, who helped usher the health care law through Congress, commended Sandoval “for taking this bipartisan step.”
Stranded in Sonoma
December 13th, 2012
When the cost rises to $160 million every year, you’ll look just like every other GOP idiot that caves to the socialists — like shit.
Edith McCrotch
December 13th, 2012
“but save the state $16 million in mental health programs that otherwise would be paid for out of the state general fund.”
Which be covered by the federal government (somebody else’s money).
Pass your problems and the costs down the line to your grandchildren and neighbors….Obamanorm.
This is S.O.P. for politicians of ALL pedigrees.
Buck Ofama
December 13th, 2012
Sandoval? That’s a Mexican name. May as well be a Democrat.
Brown Eyed Girl
December 13th, 2012
My governor. I’m ashamed.
joe6pak
December 13th, 2012
It looks like he is crossed-eyed, he is not seeing things right.
Ohio Dan
December 13th, 2012
And the Dominoes begin to fall. Crap.
grayjohn
December 13th, 2012
Another RINO rears his ugly head. Shitbag traitor.