Representative Reksten supports Medicaid HELP Act

This session I’m supporting HB 245, which allows us to continue to provide important investments in rural healthcare. If we don’t renew the HELP Act, Montana will miss out on a significant investment of federal dollars in our healthcare system (without adding to the federal deficit).

Saying “no” to this resource puts our rural hospitals at risk of closure, ensures cuts to critical services like addiction treatment, and places a greater financial burden on our small businesses.

I have personally met with both St Joseph’s Medical Center and St Luke’s Hospital administrators regarding Medicaid renewal and they have both indicated that potential cuts would hurt healthcare in Lake County. Also, it is important to realize the benefits our hospitals bring to Lake County in addition to the citizens of Lake County.

Montana has one of the most fiscally conservative Medicaid programs in the nation, and HB 245 expands investments in job services for Medicaid recipients so we can help those receiving funds find jobs. Strict work requirements also prevent individuals from receiving benefits without doing their part to seek stable employment.

Our Medicaid program reflects Montana values of hard work and helping each other.

We must pass HB 245 so we don’t forfeit resources that will ensure rural Montanans have access to quality healthcare services without putting financial strain on small businesses and Montana taxpayers.