Republicans said a plan to offer health insurance coverage to individuals on the waiting list for the state BadgerCare Plus Core plan raise the cost of health insurance for everyone else, and end up costing taxpayers money when federal subsidies run dry.
Despite those objections, the plan was approved on a partisan 12-4 vote today by the JFC.
The plan, BadgerCare Plus Basic, would be paid for entirely by a $130 monthly premium paid by enrollees.
Rep. Robin Vos, R-Caledonia, said the program is another example of a "brand new taxpayer entitlement" that "someone in the future will have to figure out how to pay for."
But Sen. Judy Robson, D-Beloit, countered that the program is merely meant as a stopgap for the 25,000 people on the waiting list for the Core plan, and that because it is paid for via premiums "it is not subsidized by the taxpayers."
Rep. Phil Montgomery, R-Ashwaubenon, said the reason the plan is able to provide service at the rate is because the plan excludes government mandates like coverage of autism treatment or mental health conditions. He said given a level playing field, private sector insurance companies could provide a better service for cheaper.
"Let's give them the chance to create jobs," Montgomery said.
But Rep. Pedro Colon, D-Milwaukee, said those who would enroll in the program are being denied coverage by provide providers.
"It hasn't been done by the private market, which is why we're here today," Colon said.
Rep. Robin Vos, R-Caledonia, said the plan "is not a panacea," pointing to a provision that allows for one hospital stay per year to be covered by the program, while a second stay has a co-pay of $7,500.
Colon responded with a rhetorical question. "If you're really sick is it better to be covered for one hospital stay or no hospital stays?"
Rep. Cory Mason, D-Racine, said what Montgomery proposed sounds a lot like the public option Democrats are trying to pass in Washington.
"When socialization of medicine is put before me I will stand up for the employers in my district," Montgomery responded. He decided not to offer an amendment to the bill to open up the program to proposals from private sector companies, saying he will do so when the legislation comes to the Assembly floor.
-- By Greg Bump