State Republicans back previously unsupported Medicaid provision
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State Republicans back previously unsupported Medicaid provision

Date: April 8, 2013
By: Taylor Beck
State Capitol Bureau
Links: HB 986

Intro: 
In a House committee Monday, lawmakers approved a bill expanding Medicaid to disabled workers, despite seeking its elimination last week.
RunTime:  0:40
OutCue:  SOC

Wrap: Republican Representative Jay Barnes' Medicaid expansion bill originally called for the elimination of the so-called "Ticket to Work" program.

But a week later, he pushed a bill extending the program until 2019 through his committee.

When asked why he now supports the program, Barnes said the newer bills serve as a back-up plan.

Actuality:  BARNEST2.WAV
Run Time:  00:07
Description: "Today's legislations were about ways we could improve the Medicaid system if nothing happens on Medicaid transformation."

The program would expand Medicaid eligibility for some disabled workers who would otherwise not qualify for the program.

Missouri and other states must decide whether or not to opt out of the feds plan for Medicaid expansion and remain eligible for full funding.

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Taylor Beck. 

Intro: 
A House panel Monday tried to extend a Medicaid program for disabled workers...this after voting to eliminate it last week.
RunTime:  0:42
OutCue:  SOC

Wrap: Republican Representative Jay Barnes first called for the elimination of the so-called Ticket to Work program in his Medicaid expansion bill.

But the following week he voted to restore the program as part of a set of bills meant to serve as a back-up should his original bill fail.

The Ticket to Work program expands Medicaid eligibility for some disabled workers who otherwise do not qualify.

Rehabilitation counselor Wayne Lee says it encourages people with disabilities to get jobs.

Actuality:  LEE2.WAV
Run Time:  00:10
Description: "There's a great myth that people with disabilities don't want to do anything. But it's actually just the opposite."

The most recent legislation would extend the program for another six years.

Reporting from the state Capitol, I'm Taylor Beck.