| VETO MESSAGE ON E2SHB 2782 |
| March 29, 2010 |
| To the Honorable Speaker and Members, |
| The House of Representatives of the State of Washington |
| Ladies and Gentlemen: |
| I am returning herewith, without my approval as to Section 9, Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 2782 entitled: |
"AN ACT Relating to establishing the security lifeline act." |
| This bill reforms one of the oldest safety net programs in Washington State for better efficiency and fiscal management. Section 9 would require the Health Care Authority to prioritize ineligible disability lifeline recipients for enrollment in the subsidized Basic Health Plan. The Health Care Authority would be required to continue to process these applications, even if subsidized enrollment is limited or closed due to lack of funding. Prioritizing ineligible disability lifeline recipients is counter to the reform actions exemplified within the security lifeline bill. Section 9 would limit the Health Care Authority's ability to efficiently manage enrollment to the appropriated budget, maintain a balanced risk pool, and is detrimental to the long-term viability of the Basic Health Plan. |
| We must preserve a viable safety net and access to health care for all Washington residents. |
| For these reasons, I have vetoed Section 9 of Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 2782. |
| With the exception of Section 9, Engrossed Second Substitute House Bill 2782 is approved. |
| Respectfully submitted, |
| Christine Gregoire |
| Governor |