Idaho's Misguided Plan: Medicaid Expansion in the Crosshairs

Idaho's DOGE Task Force is making waves, and not in a good way. This group, inspired by Elon Musk's government efficiency department, is aiming to repeal Medicaid expansion in the state. If they succeed, it could lead to higher taxes, a weaker economy, and worse health outcomes for many Idahoans. The task force has some powerful allies in the Idaho Legislature. Earlier this year, a bill to repeal Medicaid expansion passed the House and nearly made it through the Senate. With strong support, it could become law next year. In 2018, Idaho voters approved Medicaid expansion by a large margin. This program provides health coverage to around 87, 000 low-income working adults. But some lawmakers, like Josh Tanner, argue that the program has turned into a "handout. " However, a recent poll shows that 73% of Idahoans want to keep the program. Medicaid expansion is not a budget buster. The federal government covers 90% of the costs, and Idaho's share has grown by only 19. 6% over five years. That's less than the growth in other state spending areas. Plus, expansion brings in $913. 4 million in federal funds and creates thousands of jobs. Without Medicaid expansion, hospitals, especially in rural areas, will struggle. People without insurance will delay care until it's an emergency, and hospitals will have to absorb the costs. This could lead to closures or cuts in services like labor and delivery. Repealing expansion could also hurt Idaho's economy. The federal funds bring in millions in taxes, and without them, the state will have to find other ways to cover health care costs. This could mean higher taxes for everyone.