PIERRE, S.D. (SDBA) — A bill that could change South Dakota’s Medicaid expansion program is moving forward at the state Capitol.
The House State Affairs Committee voted 11-2 (today) Friday to potentially put the measure on the ballot for voters to decide.
South Dakota’s constitution requires the state to provide expanded Medicaid coverage to low-income residents. The federal government pays 90% of the costs, while South Dakota pays 10%.
Rep. Tony Venhuizen, R-Sioux Falls, who introduced the bill, is worried the federal government might reduce its funding share in the future.
His proposal would remove the requirement from the state constitution if federal funding drops below 90%.
Supporters say this would protect South Dakota’s budget from potentially substantial cost increases.
However, opponents, including hospital representatives and healthcare advocates, argue the change could threaten healthcare access for nearly 30,000 South Dakotans who currently rely on the program.
“The voters made it clear they want people to have access to affordable health care,” said Rep. Erin Healy, D-Sioux Falls, who voted against the measure.
The issue will now go to the full House for consideration.
