TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) - The Florida House has set up a bill for a vote that would give $900,000 to an online marketplace where individuals and businesses can shop for health insurance.
House Democrat Elaine Schwartz questioned Tuesday why lawmakers should give more money to the struggling Florida Health Choices program. The program has received $1.5 million in the past five years but doesn't have any enrollees. The program is the brainchild of former House Speaker Marco Rubio.
The federal government will also run an online health insurance exchange under the Affordable Care Act. Schwartz questioned whether it was necessary for the state to have two similar programs.
Rep. Travis Cummings said this exchange will offer different plans and services and anticipates the volume of enrollees will encourage free marketplace and drive down surcharges.
