(KLIX) – The controversial Medicaid expansion bill will take effect in January in Idaho, but open enrollment begins a week from Friday, on Nov. 1.

In case you don’t remember, Medicaid expansion aims to provide Medicaid coverage for individuals with incomes of 138 percent of the federal poverty level, or about $12,500 annually for one person or $26,000 for a family of four.

Voters approved Medicaid expansion by 61 percent in Idaho last November, but those opposed to the measure were quite vocal about their concerns earlier this year when some legislators tried to nullify the bill after its passing.

News Radio 1310’s own Bill Colley wrote an opinion piece about the expansion, in part writing that one of the controversies has been about that green-eyed monster – not jealousy, but money:

The $10 million is the share of Medicaid expansion some state legislators would like county governments to carry. If Medicaid costs climb, which is entirely possible, then the tab for counties grows.

You can read his full post here.

Still, as enrollment approaches for the passed bill, the question may be asked: who is eligible? According to information from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, qualifications include:

  • Be a citizen or legal resident. Be a resident of the State of Idaho.
  • Be between 0 and 138% of the Federal Poverty Level. See household income limits
  • Be between the ages of 19 and 64 years old.
  • Not be receiving Medicare. (If you don't qualify for expanded Medicaid, you may still qualify for pre-expanded Medicaid or government tax credits.  
  • See household income limits for the Children's Health Insurance Program, and Medicaid for the Aged, Blind, or Disabled.)

What do you believe about this measure? Ready or not, it's coming. Do you believe the bill is negative for Idaho or positive for the Gem State?  Leave your comments below.

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