Initiated Amendment D would raise Medicaid eligibility to well above the federal poverty line, and offer health insurance to an estimated 42,5000 South Dakotans. Opponents say the program would likely run into higher enrollment and costs, which would be permanent.
South Dakota healthcare, business and labor organizations contend Medicaid expansion could prevent rural hospital closures while allowing providers to expand services.
The move could extend healthcare benefits to an additional 42,500 low-income residents but critics worry it could cost South Dakota more than anticipated.
Expanding health insurance for low-income families is on the ballot in November. Measure would increase the maximum income to qualify to 133 percent of the federal poverty level. That portion of the population grew between 2018 and 2020.
Expanding health insurance for low-income families is on the ballot in November. Measure would increase the maximum income to qualify to 133 percent of the federal poverty level. That portion of the population grew between 2018 and 2020.