California Senate Approves Plan To Allow Immigrants In U.S. Illegally To Buy Obamacare Plans
The bill authorizes the state to seek a waiver to the federal rule that bars people living in the country without legal permission to get coverage under Covered California, the state's Affordable Care Act exchange. The measure now goes to Gov. Jerry Brown's desk.
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)