One of the key features of Obamacare is the establishment in each state of a health insurance “exchange” (now known by the abbreviation HIX) where customers would be able to purchase insurance policies eligible for federal subsidies. Much to the surprise of the administration 32 states have declined to participate. The reasons for a majority of states to refuse to participate has less to do with opposition to Obamacare than practical politics.
Predictably, the Obama regime and it enablers are bleating in dismay and accusing Republican governors of betraying their own ideals by refusing to participate in developing state HIX.
New Jersey Governor Chis Christie gave the best reasons for why a state would not participate:
In short, I will not ask New Jerseyans to commit today to a State-based Exchange when the federal government cannot tell us what it will cost, how that cost compares to our other options, and how much control they will give the states over this state-financed option. We will comply with the “Affordable Care Act,” but only in the most efficient and cost effective way for New Jersey taxpayers. Until the federal government gives us all the necessary information, any other action than this would be fiscally irresponsible.
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