Local Republicans Show Support for Reform’s Medi-Cal Expansion
Local Republicans are working to roll out the expansion of Medi-Cal under the federal health reform law even though many congressional GOP members oppose the law, Kaiser Health News/NPR reports. Medi-Cal is California's Medicaid program.
All 58 counties in California, except Fresno, have begun to expand health insurance coverage to more low-income residents.
Kern County Example
For example, the all-Republican Kern County Board of Supervisors earlier this year voted to accept federal funds to expand coverage for low-income adults.
County Supervisor Ray Watson said it was necessary to accept the funds because California law requires counties to offer low-income residents basic health care and emergency care. Watson noted that he does not support the health reform law but that taxpayers should not be required to pay for indigent care.
Supervisor Karen Goh said that she opposes some provisions of the reform law but that it is important for individuals with chronic conditions to have regular access to care.
Republican Voters' Response
Some conservative voters in Kern County view the Republican supervisors' support of the Medi-Cal expansion as an endorsement of the health reform law (Varney, Kaiser Health News/NPR, 11/21).
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