Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett has at least temporarily closed the door to the Medicaid expansion envisioned in the Affordable Care Act.
On the same day that he presented his proposed state budget for the 2014 fiscal year, Mr. Corbett wrote to U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, explaining that
At this time, and without serious reforms, it would be financially unsustainable for Pennsylvania taxpayers, and I cannot recommend a dramatic Medicaid expansion.
See Governor Corbett’s letter to Secretary Sebelius here.
At the same time, however, the governor did not rule out the possibility of a change of heart sometime in the future. His proposed budget document explains that
At this time, analysis continues on the financial sustainability related to potential expansion of the Medicaid program. The Department of Public Welfare continues to have a dialogue with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) in an effort to obtain clarification and answers on a number of issues, including whether essential reforms of the Medicaid program can be accomplished to improve the health of our citizens and the effectiveness of the program. The department is currently reviewing the recently released proposed regulations on eligibility and benefits from HHS. While due diligence continues, no decision has been made at this time.
The administration intends to engage in an informed dialogue with the public and the legislature on whether expansion of the Medicaid program is prudent, affordable and the right choice for the commonwealth. When a final decision is made, it will be done in consultation with the Legislature and it may require modifications to be made and accounted for in the budget.
The Safety-Net Association of Pennsylvania (SNAP) supports Medicaid expansion in the state.