Rep. Sears Introduces Medicaid Reform Bill

As debate to expand Medicaid in Ohio continues, State Rep. Barbara Sears (R-Sylvania) has introduced HB 176. The bill requires the Medical Assistance Director to implement Medicaid reforms, permits the Medicaid program to cover an additional group under certain circumstances; revises the duties of the Joint Legislative Committee on Medicaid Technology and Reform; and provides funding for the initiative.

Meanwhile, the Ohio Senate passed their version of the Governor's Budget and removed House approved language that would have created  a study committee on Medicaid expansion.  The budget will now go to a Conference Committee to iron out differences in the two versions for concurrence and eventual signature by the Governor.  The Governor has the power of line item vetos.