Gov Endorses Elements of Insurance Exchange

Gov. Matt Mead has informed state lawmakers that he supports pursuing some elements of a state-run health insurance exchange.

The Casper Star-Tribune reports that Elizabeth Hoy, the governor's health care policy adviser, told lawmakers about the governor's position Monday at a legislative committee meeting in Casper.

Insurance exchanges allow small businesses and individuals to buy health coverage. Wyoming must submit a plan to open an exchange by Jan. 1, 2013 or the federal government will take steps to open one.

Hoy told lawmakers that Mead supports the recommendations of the Wyoming Health Benefits Exchange Steering Committee, which has endorsed the state-run option.