IL governor floats universal coverage plan

Illinois governor Rod Blagojevich (D) has released his plans to extend health coverage to the state's 1.4 million residents. The linchpin of his proposal is the "Illinois Covered Choice" health plan--privately issued health insurance made affordable by pooling members across the state. Uninsured individuals without access to coverage would be able to buy in regardless of health status--and families who buy in could save more than $10,000 per year, state officials said. In addition, Blagojevich would also like to offer a tax rebate for low-income families and a Medicaid-style program for childless adults. The governor's office said that his proposal will cost the state $280 million during the first year of its implementation. He contends that the state's projected revenue growth--along with increased corporate taxes--would cover the additional costs.

To get detailed information on Blagojevich's plans:
- see the governor's press release [1]
- read this United Press International article [2]
- review the governor's site [3] pitching his plan

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