The House Health and Human Services Committee has recommended the Medicaid Forward Program, HB 186, with a do-pass vote of 6-4. The decision saw Democrats in favor and Republicans opposed. The program aims to extend Medicaid health care coverage to nearly all New Mexicans, expanding beyond its original intent to assist low-income citizens.

Terri Cole, President and CEO of the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce, expressed concerns about the financial implications, stating, “This could be the budget buster of all time.”

The proposed expansion is estimated to cost $1.2 billion. Funding might come from a sliding scale of premiums, but any shortfalls could require support from the general fund or a payroll tax on employers. The bill does not provide detailed plans for implementation and grants significant authority to the Health Care Agency for further development. Currently, Medicaid represents the second largest expense for the general fund after public education, accounting for 30% of the budget.

Further updates are expected in tonight’s Legislative RoundUp.