The Governor And The Legislature Disagree Over Critical Health Care Issues

Governor Brian Schweitzer says republican cuts to health care for seniors, children, and people with disabilities, will force Montana to lower payments to hospitals, and other health care providers. Schweitzer says the cost of health care will go up for everyone.  Republicans in the house have cut one-hundred-thirty point eight million dollars  in Medicaid and the children's health insurance program. Payments to health care providers, called provider rates, would be reduced to make up for the shortfall, and those with health insurance will end up paying more, because of the cuts.

Federal law will not allow the state to refuse anyone eligible for Medicaid benefits and requires that a minimum level must be maintained for many services.