Last month, I wrote a Letter to Governor Kay Ivey Regarding Medicaid Expansion in Alabama. In it, I requested a response in writing in the mail. Today, I received it, and in the interest of transparency, I’m releasing it publicly (with my address information redacted, of course).
Plain text version:
[Office of the Governor, Kay Ivey, State of Alabama letterhead with state seal]
[Redacted address information covered with a “COPY” stamp]
June 6, 2024
Dear Mr. Schmitz:
Thank you for contacting me regarding Medicaid expansion. As Governor, ensuring all Alabamians have access to quality health care is top priority of mine, and to this end, your input on the matter is very important to me.
As you likely know, the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), which became law in 2010, contains a provision that authorizes states to expand the number of individuals who are eligible for Medicaid and to pay for their coverage. Since being elected Governor, one of my primary considerations while evaluating Medicaid expansion has been – and remains – our state’s long-term ability to pay for the program.
Please know that Medicaid expansion in Alabama will continue to be a serious consideration of mine. Your taking the time to contact me about this important issue is greatly appreciated, and I will remain mindful of your comments.
Sincerely,
[Kay Ivey wet signature]
Kay Ivey
Governor
KI/hs
Do I believe she will be making any changes to her policies anytime soon? No. There’s still a lot more work to be done to fully convince her of the dire need to make a change.
But it was cool to see her (or, her typist, at least) acknowledge that I know what I’m talking about.
As always when I discuss this topic, I will again encourage donations to Alabama Arise, the organizers behind the Cover Alabama Coalition.
Derek I. Schmitz 