Massachusetts lawmakers are considering an unusual funding source to help care for uninsured patients: bets on horse races that have already happened.
The proposal comes as federal coverage changes put residents at risk of losing health insurance, placing additional pressure on hospitals and community health centers.
Here's what to know
For low-income patients who lack sufficient insurance — or have none — the Health Safety Net Trust Fund helps cover treatment costs at hospitals and community health centers. The proposed gambling expansion would direct revenue to that fund, according to WBSM.
Anticipated losses in health coverage are driving Massachusetts House Speaker Ron Mariano's support for directing the additional gambling revenue to the fund. According to State House News Service, he expects federal budget changes to create a need for that money as they take effect.
The proposal would not, however, replace the insurance residents stand to lose. Instead, it would help reimburse providers for treating people without adequate coverage.
More background
Under new federal rules, non-disabled adults between 19 and 64 must document 80 hours of employment, education, or community service each month to keep their taxpayer-funded MassHealth coverage, according to WBSM.
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Approximately 200,000 people could lose those benefits for failing to meet the requirements.
Approximately 100,000 more people could lose subsidized Massachusetts Health Connector coverage because pandemic-era extensions of federal tax credits are expiring and new rules restrict those credits for certain immigrants who are legally present.
Higher coverage contributions also await ratepayers not at risk of losing insurance.
What's being done?
Suffolk Downs and Raynham Park could use simulcast licenses to accept bets on "historical horse races" and other games under an amendment the Massachusetts House unanimously approved in June, according to WBSM. Wagers would be placed through "terminals that resemble slot machines."
The Mashpee Wampanoag's First Light Casino in Taunton is among the existing gaming operators pushing back against the proposal's added competition.
The House vote does not mean the expanded gambling options are in operation.
"The amount of uninsured are estimated to be about 300,000 people," Mariano said, per State House News Service. "That means these people will have no healthcare, and where are they going to go?"
Where can I learn more?
The proposal to fund care with gambling revenue comes as Massachusetts residents face changes in insurance coverage and costs.
• Massachusetts Health Connector users face double-digit premium increases and dropped plans as enrollment opens.
• Massachusetts plans to end full Medicaid coverage for 7,300 immigrants who are legally present.
• Massachusetts moves to offer free postpartum home visits to every new parent, alongside earlier screening.
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