Otter may take another month on exchange decision

Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter will spend up to another month deciding whether Idaho will build its own health insurance exchange – or opt for an exchange created by the federal government.

Otter made the delay announcement on Friday, the day the U.S. Department of Health and Human services had previously given as the deadline for states to make a decision.

But on Thursday, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius gave governors like Otter until Dec. 14 to decide.

Otter says Sebelius’ extension gives Idaho more time to get answers about the program.

Previously, a governor-appointed panel told Otter to adopt a state-based exchange.

A health insurance exchange is part of President Obama’s overhaul where individuals and small businesses will be able to shop for insurance via an Internet portal.