Medicaid expansion has become the latest battlefield over the Affordable Care Act ever since the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that states are not bound to follow through on that ACA provision.
Some Republicans in Michigan fought hard to keep the state from enacting Medicaid expansion. But they lost.
Republican Gov. Rick Snyder signed Medicaid expansion into law today - his office then sent this tweet:
"Congratulations to all of you for your hard work, this is a true achievement." Gov Snyder signs #HealthyMichigan:...
— Rick Snyder (@onetoughnerd) September 16, 2013
So Michigan is colored blue in this map of states that have passed Medicaid expansion vs. those states that have not (red states):
In a press release, Gov. Snyder said the legislation is part of the state's "continued comeback."
“Today, we’re reaching out to nearly a half-million Michiganders with a message that help is there for them and their families to lead healthier, more productive lives. And this innovative approach will make our recovering economy stronger, too, saving money for taxpayers and job providers.”
He signed HB 4714 into law at an event at Oakwood Hospital and Medical Center in Dearborn this morning.
Expanded Medicaid will cover an estimated 320,000 people in its first year -- and an estimated 470,000 in total in following years.
The federal government will pay 100% of the cost of the program through 2017 and will step down their support to 90% by the year 2020.
The program will cover those below 133% of the federal poverty level. Gov. Snyder's office says the expanded program will cover "most [people] working but earning about $15,000 a year."
To find out if you're eligible, follow the links on this healthcare.gov website.
