After two years debate and months closed-door negotiations, Utah’s Republican governor and state legislature have agreed on a deal to expand in that state, covering about 126,000 residents.
Adoption the plan would make Utah the first state led by a Republican governor and legislature to expand through a market-driven system.
Some details are still being negotiated with federal regulators, but the broad outlines the plan call for hospitals, doctors and drug companies to pay a or fee to help cover the costs the expanded . Colorado and Arizona impose similar fees on.
RyLee Curtis, an analyst with the Utah Policy Project, said hospitals in Utah would benefit financially from an expansion even after paying the proposed, because they would be reimbursed for they now provide free to individuals.
The plan still requires approval by the Utah legislature, the Obama administration and healthcare , but observers in the state do not regard these as serious obstacles
Gov. Gary Herbert said, “There is still work to be done, but I believe we now have a framework in place that will provide for Utah's most in need while being responsible with taxpayer funds.”
“This agreement holds out hope that Utah's compassion can harmonize with her common sense and be fiscally sustainable over the long term,” said Senate President Wayne Niederhauser.