TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) Republicans who support GOP Gov. Sam Brownback’s overhaul of the Kansas Medicaid program have brushed aside an attack on his efforts in the state House.
The House voted 69-54 Thursday to send back to its Appropriations Committee a bill creating a legislative oversight panel on Medicaid. The $2.9 billion-a-year program covers health care for the poor, elderly and disabled.
Brownback’s administration plans to issue contracts this summer to three private companies to manage the Medicaid program. Supporters argue the overhaul will lead to better coordination of care and save money.
The House’s move cut off debate and blocked a vote on a proposal from Democratic Rep. Jim Ward, of Wichita, to exempt developmentally disabled Kansans from the Medicaid overhaul.
Critics, including some Republicans, say the administration is moving too fast.
