Local Leagues across the state are distributing this flyer  to inform residents about Medicaid Expansion. A distinguished panel shared the latest on Medicaid Expansion implementation and actions we can take to support meaningful health care outcomes at an Oct. 26 forum moderated by Louise Wilkerson. Click here to view the recording.

• Donna Checkett - current MO Foundation for Health board member and VP at Health Management Associates; past director of MO Medicaid 
• Amy Blouin - Founder, President & CEO Missouri Budget Project
• Senator Brian Williams - Dist. 14, Assistant Minority Floor Leader, serves on eleven committees including the Senate Appropriations Committee
• Representative LaDonna Applebaum - Dist. 71, Ranking Minority Member of the Health and Mental Health Policy committeee

Co-sponsors: St. Louis Metropolitan Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the League of Women Voters of Metro St. Louis. 

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April 2021

With the passage of the Medicaid Expansion referendum in August 2020, the Healthcare Committee has extended our research to a more in-depth study on how states have implemented Medicaid Expansion and the impact on the state budget as well as the health of the people. This year and the next, the state will be getting additional funds beyond the 90% match to help cover medical costs for persons on Medicaid. Also, President Biden opened a new enrollment period from February 15 to May 15, 2021 so people affected by COVID-19 can enroll. We are tracking the budget process for Medicaid Expansion through committees and General Assembly. The House Budget Committee recently denied the Medicaid Expansion Budget submitted by the Governor. The bill, however, was voted as a constitutional amendment and has a long way to go in the legislative process to final vote in the General Assembly. Members will be able to help by contacting representatives and senators.

This year the Healthcare Committee will also begin to address issues in two other areas: 1. Study and advocate for ways to address other health concerns including opioid abuse and prevention, access to behavioral health care, maternal health, and infant mortality and 2. Study issues of public health crisis, particularly those magnified by COVID-19, and advocate for equitable distribution of funding and other resources among people of color. If you have any questions or comments please feel free to contact me. Also, we welcome new members.

Contact Name: Irma Ruebling

Email: Health [at] lwvstl.org