Mo. Legislators Attempt to Block Governor’s Health Care Plan

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A bipartisan House committee is seeking to block Missouri Gov. Matt Blunt’s “Insure Missouri” program from taking effect as scheduled.

Blunt’s plan would expand government-subsidized health insurance to thousands of low-income working parents. The Department of Social Services has filed an emergency rule that would start the program in mid-March.

But the House Special Committee on Healthcare Transformation has asked Secretary of State Robin Carnahan to reject the rule, essentially blocking the program from starting. All eight members signed a letter sent to Carnahan on Wednesday, Jan 30.

The lawmakers claim there is no emergency justifying a quick start to the program.

A Carnahan spokesman says the rule is undergoing a normal review process.