A new commission has been established in Georgia to address the health care coverage needs of low-income and uninsured residents. The commission, led by Senator Raphael Warnock, will examine various options, including the possibility of expanding Medicaid. Its first meeting is scheduled for later this month, and it is expected to present a report to the governor and state lawmakers in December 2024 [8ca63016].
Senator Warnock has also introduced a bill called the 'Bridge to Medicaid' Act, which proposes using tax credits to create a new health care option for Georgians in the coverage gap. This program would begin in 2026 and last for three years. Warnock's proposal is considered a temporary solution while the state continues to work on its limited expansion program, known as Georgia Pathways to Coverage. The current program is set to expire in September 2025. The governor has defended the limited expansion program and criticized traditional Medicaid as an 'ineffective bureaucracy' [8ca63016].
The newly formed commission will play a crucial role in shaping the future of health care coverage in Georgia. It will explore different approaches to address the needs of low-income and uninsured individuals, with a particular focus on expanding access to Medicaid. The commission's report, expected in December 2024, will provide recommendations to state lawmakers and the governor. This initiative reflects ongoing efforts to improve health care coverage in Georgia and ensure that more residents have access to affordable and comprehensive care [8ca63016].
In addition to the commission's work, Senator Warnock has introduced the 'Bridge to Medicaid' Act, a stopgap measure to provide temporary federal subsidies to Georgians with incomes between 100% and 138% of the federal poverty level. The subsidies would allow these individuals to purchase health coverage in the private market. The proposed subsidies would replace federal tax credits that are set to expire in 2026 and would continue for three years. This timeframe would provide an opportunity for debate on Medicaid expansion. The bill is co-sponsored by four other Senate Democrats, including Georgia Senator Jon Ossoff [4af5d002].