Rep. Lujan Applauds Introduction of Medicaid Buy-In Legislation in New Mexico90

WASHINGTON, Jan. 30 -- Assistant Speaker Ben Ray Lujan, D-New Mexico, issued the following statement on the introduction of HB 416 in New Mexico, which calls on the Health and Human Services Department to create a Medicaid Buy-In program that would be ready for customers in 2021:

Congressman Lujan introduced federal Medicaid Buy-In legislation, The State Public Option Act, on the federal level with Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) last year, and plans to do so again this Congress. The bicameral legislation would allow states to create a Medicaid Buy-In program for all their residents regardless of income, giving everyone the option to buy into a state-driven Medicaid health insurance plan.

"Congratulations to all of the advocates, subject matter experts, and State Legislators for the introduction of The Medicaid Buy-In Act.

"HB416 is not only good for New Mexico, it raises the bar for the rest of the country. Introducing an option for individuals and families to purchase Medicaid will increase competition, give consumers choices, and provide an affordable coverage option for people struggling to pay premiums.

"We're one step closer to ensuring all New Mexicans have access to health care. I look forward to seeing this legislation signed into law in New Mexico, and introducing a version of it on the federal level later this year."