Panel Approves Bill Giving Lawmakers Say on Medicaid

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A Kentucky State Senate panel has approved two measures requiring legislative approval before the Commonwealth could expand Medicaid or operate a marketplace that sells insurance.  The bills passed along party lines in the Senate Health and Welfare Committee, which has a Republican majority.

The proposals now go to the Republican-controlled Senate for a full vote. The bills are expected to die in the mostly Democratic House.

Medicaid expansion and insurance exchanges are two components of the federal Affordable Care Act, which Kentucky Republicans have criticized as too costly. Democratic Gov. Steve Beshear has already ordered the state to create an exchange. He hasn't yet decided on Medicaid expansion. Republican lawmakers say both actions deserve legislative consideration.