Gov. McAuliffe Issues Statement on House GOP Rejection of Medicaid Expansion

RICHMOND, Va., April 5 -- Gov. Terry McAuliffe, D-Va., issued the following statement on House Republican rejection of Medicaid expansion:

"I am disappointed that Republicans in the General Assembly continue to put politics before the health of the people of Virginia. In light of President Trump's failed attempt to repeal the Affordable Care Act, the Commonwealth has no excuses left to hold out on Medicaid expansion. By refusing to expand the program, we've forfeited $10.4 billion and we will continue to forego $6.6 million every day we do not take action.

"Expanding Medicaid will not just make Virginians healthier by extending coverage to nearly 400,000 people, it will also strengthen our economy. We would create up to 30,000 jobs, save our budget $73 million annually, build a healthier workforce, and help struggling rural community hospitals.

"While Republicans continue to play politics with the health of our residents, we will continue to investigate every available option to expand Medicaid in Virginia. I will continue to fight to bring our taxpayer dollars home to save lives, create jobs, and make our Commonwealth stronger."