Newly Sworn in Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards Orders Medicaid Expansion Just 24 Hours into His New Administration

Washington, D.C. – Newly sworn in Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards fulfilled his campaign promise and issued an executive order expanding Medicaid on the second day of his new administration. About 300,000 Louisianans, who earn too much to qualify for traditional Medicaid, but not enough to qualify for subsidies on the insurance exchange, are expected to be eligible for health insurance under the expansion. Louisiana will the 31st state, plus the District of Columbia, to enact Medicaid expansion. Following is the statement of Ron Pollack, executive director of Families USA, on the Governor’s action:

“We commend Governor Edwards for setting an ambitious deadline to bring health insurance to about 300,000 Louisianans – many who will receive it for the first time. This is in stark contrast to former Governor Bobby Jindal, who rejected Medicaid expansion and focused singularly on the health of his own political ambitions as he unsuccessfully sought his party’s presidential nomination.

“The state legislature has been supportive of Medicaid expansion in the past. And the expansion has the support of the state’s hospitals, medical providers, and business community. If the parties all work together, Gov. Edwards’ deadline can be met, and that will be a big win for tens of thousands of Louisianans and the Louisiana economy.”