WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has released a revamped Republican health care bill, and it seeks out conservative support by letting insurers sell low-premium policies with skimpy coverage.
The bill is aimed at repealing much of President Barack Obama’s health law. But the GOP plan remains in deep jeopardy because of divisions within the party.
It’s unclear whether the measure will survive a showdown vote next week.
The revised legislation includes added money for states to help insurers curb consumers’ increasing premiums and out of pocket costs. And it has $45 billion to help states combat drug abuse.
But McConnell is retaining his plan to cut Medicaid, the health care program for the poor. GOP moderates have fought to ease those reductions.
Nevada Republican Gov. Brian Sandoval says the new Senate health care bill hasn’t changed much. His reaction: “great concern.”
Sandoval spoke Thursday in Providence, R.I., where the nation’s governors are holding their annual summer meeting.
He said his principal concern remains that the GOP bill would phase out financing for the Medicaid expansion passed under former President Barack Obama. It’s providing coverage to an estimated 11 million people nationally, mainly low-income adults. Thirty-one states including Nevada are covering more of their residents.
Sandoval said: “They’re living healthier and happier lives as a result of their receiving coverage. And for them to lose that … would be very hurtful for them.”
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