SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Gov. Jerry Brown says he's firmly committed to making national health care reform work in California, but he also is wary of potential costs that could affect state spending for years to come.
In releasing his budget for the coming fiscal year last week, Brown pledged to be a reliable partner in implementing the federal Affordable Care Act by expanding Medicaid coverage for low-income Californians. Brown said he wants to move cautiously so the state can run a sustainable program that will not burden taxpayers with new expenses.
He set aside $350 million for the Medicaid expansion, but even his top health care aide said the true cost is not yet known.
"We're committed to bringing more people to the health care system, but we recognize there are big costs out there, there are big unknowns," Brown said. "We're going to move carefully, but we're going to move with commitment because I do believe people do need decent health care."
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