A bill in the Nebraska Legislature would extend Medicaid coverage under the Affordable Care Act.
Senator Kathy Campbell introduced the legislation Wednesday, saying the expansion would provide health care coverage to 54,000 Nebraskans who are currently uninsured.
Campbell says Medicaid expansion isn’t just a health care issue. "The growth of our state economy depends on a healthy workforce. Providing coverage will help keep Nebraska families secure, our businesses strong, our job market dynamic, and our economy growing. But a healthy workforce depends on access to health care."
Nebraskans at or less than 138 percent of the federal poverty level would be eligible. For a family of three, that’s an income of $26,344 dollars or less.
Governor Dave Heineman is opposed to expanding Medicaid coverage in Nebraska under the Affordable Care Act, citing cost concerns.