Pou & Sweeney Welcome Enactment of State Health Exchange Law

Trenton – Senator Nellie Pou and Senate President Steve Sweeney issued the following statements today on enactment of the law signed by Governor Phil Murphy creating a state-based health exchange that includes Medicaid eligibility:

“Health insurance is an American necessity. And yet, it is not a universal or guaranteed right in our country. The ACA was a major expansion of healthcare accessibility, and New Jersey is now taking the appropriate steps needed to make it permanent. I am proud to have sponsored the creation of this exchange because having a state-based exchange, integrated with Medicaid, is going to be an easy, one-stop process for those seeking affordable healthcare for themselves and their family. For those who have tried to search for insurance on their own, they know what a difference this will make.” Senator Nellie Pou (D-Bergen/Passaic).

“This is an important step forward that will put New Jersey in the forefront in addressing one of the top concerns of our residents: protecting and enhancing their access to affordable health care. I am glad that the Governor came to recognize the importance of including Medicaid eligibility by accepting our revision creating an integrated exchange that automatically enrolls those who qualify for Medicaid. This is significant improvement that will allow people to get the coverage they qualify for and need, that makes the process more consumer friendly by eliminating duplications and delays, and will generate federal funds to help offset operational costs. Our goal all along has been to ensure access to quality health care for everyone, especially those who are most in need and who struggle to afford health care.” Senate President Steve Sweeney (D-Gloucester/Salem/Cumberland).