Idaho lawmakers fundamentally opposed to the federal health care law made a final effort to convince their colleagues to reject a state-based health insurance exchange, but to no avail. The bill which will create a state-based online insurance marketplace passed the Senate 23-12, sending the measure to Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter who is sure to sign it into law.
Senators who debated against the bill include Russ Fulcher (R-Meridian), Sheryl Nuxoll (R-Cottonwood), Bob Nonini (R-Coeur d’Alene), Steve Vick (R-Dalton Gardens), Monty Pearce (R-New Plymouth) and Jim Rice (R-Caldwell). Each took turns reiterating their disdain for the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare. Most said a vote in favor of a state-based health exchange is a vote in favor of the federal law.
Sen. Nonini said he put on the darkest clothes he could find today because passing the exchange bill is like mourning. “I believe this is a dark day for Idaho,” Sen. Nonini said. Click here to continue reading...