Governor-elect Pat McCrory and the newly elected state legislature should support Gov. Bev Perdue’s decision to set up a joint state-federal exchange for health insurance.
Earlier this month, Perdue announced her desire to set up the joint exchange for the state’s health insurance market starting in 2014. She made the announcement in time to meet the deadline to apply for federal funding for exchange-related expenses.
The exchange would enable individuals and small businesses to compare health insurance plans and discern eligibility for tax credits in order to lower the cost of health insurance.
Additionally, the joint structure would enable the state to control the exchange, instead of the federal government.
Supporters of the joint system for the exchange argue that it will provide greater control and flexibility over the decision-making process. They argue it is important for state residents to be a part of the conversation about their own health insurance.
Opponents to the joint system and to Perdue’s declaration of intent argue McCrory should be the one to make this decision when he takes office in January.
Regardless, having a joint state-federal exchange for the state’s health insurance is in the interests of the state’s residents — it allows the state to collaborate with the federal government on certain logistical issues, while also maintaining control of the decision-making process.
McCrory should not bow to some of the political pressures he might face from members of his party, who might be uncomfortable with what they perceive as Perdue’s pre-emption of his decision.
When McCrory and the Republican-dominated General Assembly take office next year, they should vote to set up a joint state-federal exchange.
