BOISE, Idaho –– Despite hundreds of Idaho voters testifying in opposition today, Idaho House Bill 138, which would effectively repeal voter-initiated Medicaid expansion, was given a “do pass” recommendation by the House Health & Welfare Committee.
Advocates of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network hope the voices of Idahoans against this bill resonate more clearly to House members than the committee, which heard two hours of overwhelming testimony against a bill that will seismically alter health care in Idaho, yet still gave it a narrow 8-7 approval. The bill received bi-partisan opposition testimony from community members, business leaders and health care providers, professionals and advocates from across the spectrum of disciplines.
The following statement can be attributed in full or part to American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network Government Relations Director Randy Johnson:
“It’s disappointing that lawmakers are not clearly hearing the voices of their constituents. For the more than 11,000 Idaho residents who will be diagnosed with cancer this year alone, Medicaid expansion isn’t just a policy — it’s a lifeline. It ensures access to timely diagnoses, life-saving treatments and a fighting chance against this disease. If this bill is successful, many of our friends and loved ones will face a cruel reality of losing the care they need or facing financial devastation.
“If Medicaid expansion is repealed or restricted these individuals and their families could face degraded quality of life, inability to access treatment, and diminished hope for recovery. Idaho is a state built on the strength of our communities and a deep commitment to taking care of one another. Medicaid expansion reflects those values — it saves lives, strengthens families, and protects our health care system. Lawmakers must reject HB 138 and stand with Idahoans who need care.”