Does the definition of “Uninsured Missourian” lack a needed limitation?
Amendment 3 gives the definition of “Uninsured Missourian” as a citizen “who does not have health coverage through any private insurer, employer-sponsored self-insured plan, government health care program such as Medicaid, Medicare, or similar programs, or any other source.” What isn’t mentioned is whether health coverage is available. So even if someone can get health insurance for a reasonable amount from an employer, it would seem they would still be eligible for coverage. Fiscal summary: potential costs of Amendment 3 This is a listing of various potential costs for Amendment 3 from the state auditor’s fiscal note summary: ■ $1.2 billion annually in medical assistance payments to cover health care costs for all Missourians whose individual income is 200% or less of federal poverty guidelines. Amendment 3 would only provide about $425 million annually, so taxes would have to be increased or state services severely cut back if this cost has to be met. ■ $268 million annually if docto
