June 26, 2013
LANSING, Mich. - Gov. Rick Snyder on Thursday will continue a series of informational meetings on the urgent need for the state Senate to act on the proposed Healthy Michigan plan. The plan would expand health care coverage for nearly half-a-million Michigan residents while encouraging healthier lifestyles that reduce health care costs.
Called "A Conversation with the Governor," the meetings are being conducted with various audiences across the state. Thursday the governor will be at Genesys Health System in Grand Blanc. Other sessions will be announced as they are finalized.
On Wednesday, Snyder welcomed the creation of a Senate work group on the issue, describing that as "good progress," and called for the Senate to set a date for a vote on the legislation.
"My team and I are committed to helping this work group complete its task quickly. I'm also urging the Senate leadership to establish a specific date for a vote on this important legislation," he said. "This plan will save taxpayers money and reduce costs for Michigan's job providers. It will give consistent and cost-effective coverage to those who now rely on the emergency room as their primary source of medical care. Passing this bill is critical to the well-being of our citizens and the vitality of our economy."
The state is projected to save $206 million in the 2014 fiscal year by providing Healthy Michigan plan benefits to those now receiving services paid for with general fund dollars. Healthy Michigan would help alleviate some of the $820 million a year in uncompensated costs that are borne by hospitals and passed to individuals and businesses through higher premiums.
The legislation, House Bill 4714, has been approved by the Michigan House with bipartisan support. The Michigan Senate adjourned last week without taking action on the legislation.
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