Photo: Varmin/Wikimedia Commons
Governor Ralph Northam has welcomed the Republican-controlled House approval of a plan to extend Medicaid coverage for the low-income people in Virginia – reflecting compromise in a new political climate in Richmond in the backdrop of massive Democratic gains in 2017 elections.
The endorsement of the plan by the Appropriations Committee with an overwhelming majority on Sunday comes as Democrats supported Republican proposal that makes it mandatory for Medicaid recipients to seek work training and contribute to their coverage.
Northam had pitched Medicaid as a key promise to afford medical coverage to Virginians in need. In the past, Republicans had opposed the idea of any expansion in medicaid coverage but Democrats’ amazing run of victories which reduced the Republican majority to 51-49 in the House significantly altered the political balance in Richmond
Meanwhile, health coverage under the Obamacare also continues. Now the Senate has to endorse the proposal to finalize the plan.
In a statement, Governor Northam, whose election ensured continuity of Democratic leadereship in the state, welcomed the House Appropriations Committee’s amendments to the 2018-20 Biennial Budget.
“This budget proposal extends health coverage to hundreds of thousands of Virginians who need it. I want to thank Speaker Cox, Chairman Jones and delegates in both parties for the leadership they have demonstrated on this issue. I also want to thank Leader Toscano, his caucus and advocates in every corner of Virginia for the years of work on this issue that helped make this historic step possible.”
He also vowed to work on the Republicans’ proposal.
“I have long supported a simple and straightforward expansion of Medicaid. However, I respect the priorities of the House majority and I am encouraged by and supportive of our work together to bring about a new “Virginia Way” on Medicaid. We can and should expand coverage and provide significant training resources, counseling, and incentives to connect Virginians with employment opportunities.”
