Idaho Adopts Health Exchange

Thanks to state lawmakers and Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter (R), roughly 278,000 Idahoans lacking health insurance—including nearly 48,000 people ages 50 to 64—will be able to find affordable coverage this fall through a state insurance exchange. AARP Idaho testified in support before legislators and gathered petition signatures, ran ads and hosted a telephone town hall with the state insurance director and over 6,000 participants.

An AARP-commissioned poll revealed broad Idaho support, even as 26 other states opted for federal exchanges.

AARP Idaho state director Mark Estess praised members’ advocacy work: “Without their voices and active participation, the state-based exchange in Idaho would not have been possible.”