Little committed to Medicaid expansion, but sees problems

Gov.-elect Brad Little says he’s committed to implementing a voter-approved expansion of Medicaid coverage but wants to make sure the state doesn’t create an incentive for people not to work.

The Republican made the comments at The Associated Press Legislative Preview on Thursday, a day before he’s sworn in as Idaho’s 33rd governor.

Little didn’t specify whether he wanted work or other requirements for the estimated 60,000 low-income adults across the state that might receive coverage if Medicaid is expanded.

After Little’s remarks, Republican House Speaker Scott Bedke of Oakley, Democratic House Minority Leader Mat Erpelding of Boise, Republican Senate President Pro-Tem Brent Hill of Rexburg and Democratic Senate Minority Leader Michelle Stennett of Ketchum are scheduled to speak and answer reporter’s questions.

The Idaho Legislature begins work on Monday.