Sen. Ridgeway Proposes Constitutional Amendment To Scare Local Governments Away From Public Option

Here's a pretty incredible constitutional amendment, introduced yesterday by Sen. Luann Ridgeway (R-Clay County).  She wants to disqualify any political subdivision from receiving state funds if they choose to participate in a still-undefined-federal-public option.

SJR 23 - Prohibits a political subdivision from receiving state funding if it provides health insurance to its employees through a public health insurance option plan

Upon voter approval, this constitutional amendment provides for a penalty for political subdivisions participating in a public health insurance option sponsored by the federal government. If a political subdivision does so, such political subdivision shall be ineligible to receive any state funds, including any state funds otherwise constitutionally dedicated toward such political subdivision.

Beginning the first calendar quarter following adoption of this amendment, and annually thereafter, each political subdivision that provides health insurance to its employees shall verify with the commissioner of the office of administration whether or not it participates in the public option. The commissioner shall collect and compile the information and make it available to the public.

Why is Sen. Ridgeway so concerned that local governments might avail themselves to a program that could cost less and provide better service?  Wouldn't that be a good thing for taxpayers?

Based on the way she wants to amend the state constitution, it looks like it would still be okay for a state-based public insurance option like the Missouri Consolidated Health Care Plan to continue to exist.

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