Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire signed into law a measure to provide health insurance coverage to an additional 38,000 of the state’s low-income children by expanding access to health insurance for children who live at or below 250% of the federal poverty level. Beginning in 2009, access will be expanded to include children who live at 300% of the federal poverty level. The bill will make health insurance easier to get with one standard application and targeted outreach to inform parents and find children who are eligible. “This bill is not just about getting children insurance,” said Gregoire. “We are making sure children have a medical home and that we tie our dollars to performance measures and pay for quality care.” Gregoire has said she wants to provide health insurance access to all Washington children by 2010.
