Here are five lawmakers’ opinions of the plan.
1. Tennessee Senate Speaker Ron Ramsey (R-Blountville) said, “When a state has an opportunity to take power away from the federal government and institute real conservative reform, that is an opportunity that must be taken seriously. Governor Haslam has negotiated a deal which returns tax dollars back to Tennessee while using conservative principles to bring health insurance to more Tennesseans.”
2. Tennessee House Speaker Beth Harwell (R-Nashville) said, “The governor has proposed what appears to be a state-based, free market reform. My priorities will be ensuring the fiscal stability of the state, and protecting the taxpayers. I look forward to what I’m sure will be a thorough discussion with my colleagues in the Tennessee General Assembly.”
3. “Gov. Haslam’s announcement is a step in the right direction. Expanding health insurance to more Tennesseans is the right thing to do for patients, hospitals and businesses,” said U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper (D-Tenn.).
4. “I am reading through the governor’s proposal now. But I will say I am extremely apprehensive of any plan that relies on federal taxpayer dollars derived from ObamaCare,” said U.S. Rep. Scott DesJarlais (R-Tenn.).
5. House Minority Leader Craig Fitzhugh (D-Ripley) said, “Good things happen at Christmas time, and I think this is really good news. Now, we start having good conversations with the legislature to try to get it done.”
More articles on Medicaid expansion:
5 things to know about Tennessee’s proposed alternative Medicaid expansion plan
Medicaid expansion attracts support in Montana
Medicaid expansion update: 5 must-read stories
