Lawmakers in Republican-led Kansas vote to expand Medicaid

Kansas is in the national spotlight after lawmakers approved a bill Tuesday to expand Medicaid. 

Dr. John Eplee is a doctor and newly elected Republican Representative, bringing real-world experience into a contentious healthcare debate.

“It would help stimulate jobs, stabilize hospitals, and the bottom line is, it will help provide care to these Kansans who are hardworking individuals that just can't afford healthcare,” Dr. Eplee said.

The approval comes as somewhat surprising news for the red state, drawing national attention.

“I’ll admit there was bit of an internal conflict for a lot of Republicans, based on their philosophy versus a lot of the testimony they heard,” Dr. Eplee explained. “A lot of our legislators who voted for this are in districts where the hospitals are threatened."

If the bill passes, the state will receive millions of federal dollars. The expansion is projected to be budget neutral, so it shouldn’t cost taxpayers anything.

There is also a work provision in the bill. Individuals who qualify must work at least 20 hours a week or be actively searching for a job.

The federal match rate is 93 percent. Lawmakers added a provision so if it falls below 90 percent, Kansas can opt back out.

Dr. Eplee said he will be “pleasantly surprised” if the bill passes. Governor Sam Brownback has already said he is opposed to Medicaid expansion.

His spokeswoman, Melika Willoughby, tweeted a statement writing, “To expand Obamacare when the program is in a death spiral and is not responsible policy. Kansas must prioritize the care and service of vulnerable Kansans, addressing their healthcare needs in a sustainable way, not expanding a failing entitlement program to able-bodied adults.”

Governor Brownback is expected to receive the bill in the next day or two. He has 10 days to sign or veto it.

If he vetoes the bill, lawmakers will have the opportunity to vote and override his decision.