Republicans use their majority in the House to push through a bill that scales back Medicaid. State Representatives wrapped up seven hours of debate on the bill, sending it to Governor Matt Blunt on a 89-69 vote. Reductions in who will be eligible for Medicaid and making many services subject to appropriations troubled Democrats. In fact, no Democrat voted for the bill. Some called it cruel. Others pleaded for Republicans to consider other ways to cut Medicaid’s cost. Republicans argued, though, that Medicaid has grown too large and takes up too much of the state budget. They contend the changes in the bill will rein in the costs while still protecting the most vulnerable in Missouri.
