Following in Oklahoma's footsteps of last April, Kansas has become the second state to return its Early Innovator grant to the federal government. Last February, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services distributed Early Innovator grants to seven states for the early implementation of some parts of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, ostensibly so these states could "lead the way" on ObamaCare and show everybody how great it is. But, on second thought, Kansas decided to decline on the overspent federal government's grant and hold off this crazy, damaging law as long as possible in favor of state-oriented solutions. Bravo - who knew Kansas could be so audacious?
"There is much uncertainty surrounding the ability of the federal government to meet it's already budgeted future spending obligations. Every state should be preparing for fewer federal resources, not more. To deal with that reality Kansas needs to maintain maximum flexibility. That requires freeing Kansas from the strings attached to the Early Innovator Grant," said Governor Brownback.
“Federal Medicaid mandates have cost Kansans over 400 million in the past 2 years alone. Full implementation of the mandates in the President’s health care law would cost billions more,” said [Lt. Governor] Dr. Colyer. “We will work to find innovative Kansas based solutions to Kansas challenges and be very selective in the federal funds the state applies for and receives. We look forward to working with legislative leaders and Insurance Commissioner Praeger as we develop Kansas solutions." ...
“The early innovator grant does not address the most important issue in health reform, which is slowing the rate of cost growth in health care. Through the statewide Medicaid reform meetings, Kansas is taking the opportunity to decide for ourselves how best to provide health care access, improve outcomes and reduce costs for our state,” said Dr. Robert Moser, Secretary for the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.
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