Lawmakers have shared mixed opinions on the alternative Medicaid expansion plan proposed by Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam (R), according to The Washington Times.
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
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