The final meeting for the Governor’s Council on Medicaid Expansion concluded this afternoon. The group studied Medicaid expansion strategies from the 36 other states that have already expanded to determine the best version for Kansas. The Council is composed of a bipartisan group of legislators, policy experts, advocates and stakeholders.

Today the Council participated in discussion regarding potential guideposts or goals for responsible, sustainable expansion in Kansas for the Legislature to consider in the upcoming session. The Council’s guideposts will supplement the legislative work that is already underway.

“I appreciate the Council’s thorough study of other states’ Medicaid expansion practices and its commitment to engaging in a thoughtful, bipartisan discussion this fall,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Today’s discussion reflects my vision for a form of Medicaid expansion that works for Kansas.

During today’s discussion, there was widespread agreement among Council members that Medicaid expansion is necessary for Kansas. Members also agreed that the months-long study of other states’ expansion practices – covering topics from coverage to efficiency – offered valuable insight as to the best model for Kansas as a final plan takes shape.

Official guideposts or goals will be outlined in the Council’s final report, which will be submitted to Governor Kelly in early January. 

For more on Governor Kelly’s executive order establishing the Council, its membership and presentation materials:

https://governor.kansas.gov/council-on-medicaid-expansion/