New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson has announced a proposal to provide health insurance to 59,000 residents while state officials evaluate the feasibility of adopting a universal coverage program similar to the one legislated in Massachusetts. The proposal will expand Medicaid coverage for low-income adults, require companies that do business with the state to offer health insurance, do outreach to state employees who turn down health insurance, and expand the State Coverage Insurance program to give small businesses affordable insurance options. Richardson, who may be considering a presidential bid in 2008, said his proposal will cost $77 million per year and will ultimately cover 70% of the state’s low-income uninsured adult residents, according to The New Mexican.
