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Nebraska Medicaid bill dead, but debate not over

LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Nebraska's latest attempt to expand Medicaid may have died this year, but the issue is certain survive through the November elections and beyond.

Opponents succeeded last week in blocking the measure with a legislative filibuster. Supporters plan to regroup and look at other options.

Senator Kathy Campbell of Lincoln is the bill's the lead sponsor. She says she plans to talk with Nebraska's next governor about Medicaid proposals, as well as the new state senators who will replace 17 term-limited lawmakers in 2015.

Senator Jeremy Nordquist of Omaha says he believes pressure on lawmakers will increase once the state starts to experience the consequences of the decision, including possible hospital closures and federal tax penalties for small businesses.

Opponents say they'll continue to fight any expansion efforts in Nebraska.

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