House debate on health exchange stretches into sixth hour
BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Debate continues in the House of Representatives on the merits of Idaho adopting a state-based, nonprofit insurance exchange, a provision of President Barack Obama's 2010 health care overhaul that's inflamed the passions of lawmakers.
At stake Wednesday is the future of Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter's plan to use about $30 million in federal funding to build Idaho's own insurance exchange, rather than follow the route of about 25 GOP governors.
They have opted instead to shun a state exchange and default to a federal version.
Otter's allies on the issue say Idaho should build its own marketplace to sell insurance to individuals and small businesses because it keeps the state in control.
Foes say Idaho should reject the plan, to stand up to federal tyranny.
Debate on a similar Senate bill lasted six hours.
At stake Wednesday is the future of Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter's plan to use about $30 million in federal funding to build Idaho's own insurance exchange, rather than follow the route of about 25 GOP governors.
They have opted instead to shun a state exchange and default to a federal version.
Otter's allies on the issue say Idaho should build its own marketplace to sell insurance to individuals and small businesses because it keeps the state in control.
Foes say Idaho should reject the plan, to stand up to federal tyranny.
Debate on a similar Senate bill lasted six hours.
