COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — South Carolina Democrats said Monday the state needs to expand Medicaid eligibility at least as long as the federal government promises to fully cover the cost. But Republicans contend that's unrealistic.
House Democrats will attempt this week to insert into the 2013-14 budget a one- to three-year temporary expansion of the government health care program for the poor and disabled. Debate on the spending plan for the fiscal year starting July 1 began on the floor Monday afternoon.
"We believe it's a moral obligation," said Rep. Gilda Cobb-Hunter, D-Orangeburg.
Gov. Nikki Haley and the House GOP Caucus adamantly oppose expanding eligibility as called for in the federal health care law, saying the state can't afford the eventual 10 percent match. They argue the state needs to focus on improving residents' health, not putting more money into a bloated, inefficient governmental program.
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