The Latest: Legislature passes Medicaid expansion bill

HELENA, Mont. – The Latest on Montana’s Medicaid expansion bill (all times local):

1:45 p.m.

The Montana Legislature has passed a bill to continue a program that provides health care for about 96,000 low-income residents for another six years.

The House passed the Medicaid expansion bill 61-35 Thursday.

It now goes to Gov. Steve Bullock, who has made the program a priority. Supporters touted its positive effect on the state’s economy and the health of residents.

The bill by Republican Rep. Ed Buttrey adds work requirements, strengthens an asset test, increases premiums for people who remain on the program for more than two years, and requires Hutterite colonies to pay the state’s share of coverage for their members.

It also adds a tax on hospitals to leverage more federal funding and sets a June 2025 expiration date.

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9:55 a.m.

Montana’s Medicaid expansion program is one state House vote away from continuing for another six years.

The House voted 87-13 Thursday to accept the Senate’s amendments to the bill that would keep alive the program that provides health care for about 96,000 low-income Montanans.

It needs a final vote before going to Gov. Steve Bullock, who is expected to sign it.

The bill by Republican Rep. Ed Buttrey adds work requirements, strengthens an asset test, increases premiums for people who remain on the program for more than two years and requires Hutterite colonies to pay the state’s share of coverage for their members.

It also adds a tax on hospitals to leverage more federal funding and sets a June 2025 expiration date.