An editorial from the Kalamazoo Gazette

"Come Back from Vacation and Take a Vote"

Last week, despite overwhelming support and advocacy from hospital leaders, physicians, insurers, business leaders, consumers and Gov. Rick Snyder, legislation to significantly reform and expand Michigan's Medicaid program was not taken up for a vote by the state Senate. The legislation, House Bill (HB) 4714, passed the state House in the second week of June on 76-31 bipartisan vote and advanced to the Senate for consideration. When legislative progress began to slow, Snyder returned early from an overseas trip to personally lobby lawmakers to put the bill to a vote, but to no avail.

It is disappointing that the Senate failed to pass or even vote on this legislation, which is supported by so many people and groups. It would reduce the hidden tax of uncompensated care cost shifting  and bring health coverage and more personal responsibilities to almost 500,000 working citizens in Michigan. Different results were expected because of the strong bipartisan vote for the legislation in the House and polls showing widespread support for the legislation from Michigan voters. 

Nevertheless, we agree with Gov. Rick Snyder when he said the Senate should "take a vote, not a vacation" and pass the bill. 

Check out this Kalamazoo Gazette Article on Medicaid 

Faces: A Collection of Personal Stories from Medicare and Medicaid Recipients