Oklahoma Health Care Authority

Senate President Pro Tem Lonnie Paxton said lawmakers need more time to meet with health care leaders.

The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network says two measures that would clear a path for adjusting or reversing Medicaid expansion could threaten access to preventive care and screenings.

If approved, the measures could remove Medicaid expansion from the state constitution or allow the Legislature to not fully cover its costs if federal support changes.

Oklahoma officials are proposing major structural changes to the state's health care system, including privatizing some mental health facilities or shifting them to new agency control.

The bill author said he could not quantify how frequently this is occurring in Oklahoma, as he didn't review that with the state Medicaid agency.

Drummond alleges that agency staff changed its language twice after it was published for a public comment period from Dec. 15 to Jan. 15.

Gov. Kevin Stitt called on the legislature to send a question to voters that would allow for “adjustments” to Medicaid expansion during his State of the State address Monday.

This followed concerns from Oklahoma Health Care Authority Board members related to the order’s legality and impact on providers.

This comes after the agency’s board requested clarity on the executive order driving the policy.

Board members are seeking clarity on the executive order that encouraged the proposed rule.