Bill Seeking To Extend Covered California Access To Those In Country Illegally Sent To Governor
The measure dictates that the state ask for a federal waiver to allow those in the country illegally to buy plans off the health law exchange in California. They would not be able to qualify for subsidies, though.
Los Angeles Times:
Immigrants Here Illegally Could Have Chance To Buy Health Coverage If Brown Signs Legislation
The state Senate on Thursday sent Gov. Jerry Brown a measure that would ask for federal approval to allow immigrants in the country illegally to purchase their own health insurance through the Covered California exchange. State Sen. Ricardo Lara (D-Bell Gardens) said his bill may lead to an estimated 390,000 immigrants who earn an income too high to qualify for Medi-Cal to fully pay for healthcare coverage through the state exchange under the Affordable Care Act. (McGreevy, 6/2)
KPCC:
California Takes Step To Extend Obamacare To Immigrants Without Legal Status
On Thursday, the state Senate voted 27-8 to approve SB 10, a bill that directs the state to seek a federal waiver to an existing rule barring unauthorized immigrants from purchasing coverage through Covered California, the state health exchange. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Ricardo Lara (D-Bell Gardens), cleared the state Assembly earlier this week. (Berestein Ropas, 6/2)
San Jose Mercury News:
Insuring Illegal Immigrants: California Legislature Approves Bill Allowing Families To Buy Plans Through State Exchange
"Covered California should be able to live up to its name and serve all Californians regardless of immigration status," said Anthony Wright, director of Health Access California, which lobbied to pass the legislation. It cleared the Senate 27-8 and the Assembly 55-20. SB 10 was one of almost 500 pieces of legislation the Senate and Assembly considered this week during several days of back-to-back, marathon floor sessions. (Calefati, 6/2)