Idaho senators start debating insurance exchange
BOISE, Idaho (AP) -- Senators are debating one of the 2013 session's top issues: Should Idaho adopt a state-based insurance exchange or allow the federal government to establish one instead.
Gov. C.L. "Butch" Otter has proposed a state exchange, calling it less expensive and friendlier to Idaho insurers and agents than what Washington, D.C. will come up with.
Republican Sen. John Tippets of Montpelier said during debate Thursday he's among those who oppose President Obama's 2010 health insurance overhaul, which includes such exchanges.
However, given an insurance exchange is a certainty come 2014, Tippets argued Idaho was better off if it was in control, not the federal government.
Foes including Sen. Steve Thayn from Emmett argued costs of a state-based exchange are unknown and that lawmakers will have too little oversight over its operations.
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