Medicaid expansion initiative meets deadline

Supporters of an initiative drive aimed at addressing Idaho’s Medicaid funding gap say they have enough signatures to put the issue on the November ballot.

The proposal would expand affordable health care to approximately 62,000 Idahoans, according to supporters.

The “gap” refers to residents who earn too much money to qualify for Medicaid and too little to be eligible for financial assistance so they can afford coverage through Idaho’s health insurance exchange.

“I feel so strongly that people in our state need quality and affordable health care,” said Leslie Smith from Idaho Falls. “That’s what moved me and hundreds of other people all over Idaho to get out into our communities and collect signatures from our families, friends and neighbors. I’m really proud of what we’ve accomplished, and I can’t wait to vote for this in November.”

Supporters plan to turn in more than 60,000 valid signatures from all 44 counties and all 35 legislative districts to qualify the initiative for the ballot. The state requires 56,192 valid signatures, including signatures from 6 percent of registered voters in at least 18 legislative districts by May 1.

Clerks have until June 30 to validate the signatures and all petitions must be submitted to the Secretary of State on July 6.