health insurance news

The Associated Press–Many expected a bill that would create a health insurance exchange to take up a lot of oxygen during Idaho’s 2012 Legislative session. But so far, the bill has not even gotten a hearing.

Healthcare Finance News – An AARP survey shows that Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter is now at odds with most Idaho voters ages 30-64, who want the state – not the federal government – to develop and administer a health insurance exchange with a strong state consumer voice.

Bloomberg Businessweek – The state has received a $20.4 million planning grant to set up a federally required health insurance exchange, but the Legislature has yet to decide whether to keep the funds.

The Spokesman-Review – Idaho Gov. Butch Otter opposes what he calls “Obamacare,” but he’s authorized the state to apply nearly $31 million in federal grants to start a state health insurance exchange.

The Salt Lake Tribune – The Idaho Department of Insurance is working to implement a major piece of a new health care law, even as the state seeks to overturn the reform in a federal lawsuit.

Canadian Business Online – Idaho House Republicans passed a bill Tuesday meant to scuttle proposed federal health care reforms that would require residents or companies to buy insurance.