McCrory backs bill to stop Medicaid expansion

y Mark Binker and Matthew Burns

Posted: 8:55 a.m. today
Updated: 51 minutes ago

Raleigh, N.C. — Gov. Pat McCrory is backing a move by the legislature to block the state from expanding its Medicaid program or participating in the state health insurance exchanges created by the federal Affordable Care Act.

McCrory has held back his thoughts on the issue during his first weeks in office, although he did express concern that the Medicaid portion of the bill could keep North Carolina from drawing down federal funding to improve a key computer system. That concern seems to have taken a less central role in deliberations as the bill has gained momentum in the legislative process.

"Throughout our first few weeks in office, we have done a thorough review of the advantages and disadvantages of expanding Medicaid in North Carolina and determining the right exchange option for our state," McCrory said in a news release Tuesday. "The results of our findings make it abundantly clear that North Carolina is not ready to expand the Medicaid system and that we should utilize a federal exchange."

McCrory faced a Friday deadline to declare North Carolina's intent, but the General Assembly took the decision out of his hands to some extent. The Senate has already passed the bill, and House Speaker Thom Tillis said his chamber could vote on it as soon as Thursday ...

http://www.wral.com/mccrory-backs-bill-to-stop-medicaid-expansion/12095491/