Two updates (so far) on 2 April 2013. Here’s a summary report on Medicaid expansion legislation as the legislature’s Easter break begins (legislative calendar, PDF). Action resumes when the legislature reconvenes on Tuesday, 2 April.
HB-548. Straightforward implementation of expanded Medicaid by Rep. Pat Noonan. Tabled in committee on 28 March. Fiscal note available.
HB-590. Gov. Bullock’s Medicaid expansion plan, carried by Rep. Chuck Hunter (D-Helena). Tabled in Committee on 28 March. Fiscal note available.
Update 2 April 2013. The bill was stripped down to a shell. See Mike Dennison’s story, Republicans on House panel vote to kill Medicaid expansion bills.HB-604. Two-year interim study of Medicaid expansion. Approved 50-49 on 28 March, transmitted to senate. There is no need for further study. People are hurting and need help. This is a coward’s way of saying “screw you, you’re on your own" (otherwise known as personal responsibility). Rep. Cary Smith (R-Billings) is sponsoring HB-604. Fiscal note available.
HB-623. The GOP Vouchercaid scheme, carried by Rep. Liz Bangerter (R-Helena). Approved by committee on 10-6 party line vote. Second reading in House schedule for 2 April. Fiscal note available.
Legislator | District | Town | Vote |
---|---|---|---|
Bennett, Jerry | 1 | Libby | N |
Hollandsworth, Roy | 28 | Brady | N |
O'neil, Jerry | 3 | Columbia Falls | N |
Smith, Cary | 55 | Billings | N |
SB-393. Senate version of HB-458, carried by Sen. Christine Kaufmann (D-Helena). Heard in committee on 27 March, awaiting further action. Fiscal note available.
SB-395. Montana Hospital Association bill carried by Sen. Dave Wanzenreid (D-Missoula). Heard in committee on 27 March, awaiting further action. Fiscal note available.