Tennessee has forfeited nearly $4 billion of our own tax money that instead has gone to other states because the General Assembly refuses to expand Medicaid.
Their refusal was a political move that had real-world consequences not only for Tennesseans who couldn’t afford life-saving care, but for our economy. If the General Assembly had moved to expand Medicaid, rural and urban hospitals across Tennessee would still be open.
On my first day as governor, I will move to expand Medicaid, make sure our fellow Tennesseans receive the care they need, and accept the federal funds that the legislature has rejected for many years. But we shouldn’t have to wait until after Election Day.
It’s time to use common sense and invest in Tennessee. Tell Tennessee legislators: “Expand Medicaid now!”
Failure to expand Medicaid has already caused ripple effects throughout our economy.
Our rural hospitals provide more than lifesaving care; they are economic engines in distressed areas, often as the largest employer. A closed hospital means nurses, doctors and healthcare workers will lose their jobs — and our fellow Tennesseans will have access to fewer services, have to travel farther and wait longer for healthcare.
As the House Democratic Leader, my office keeps a tally of the expansion money Tennessee has forfeited by refusing to expand Medicaid — and every day it continues to grow while our neighbors struggle to find the care they need.
We need to do better for Team Tennessee.
Will you join me in telling my colleagues in the Tennessee General Assembly to expand Medicaid now? Add your name.
Thanks for your support,
Fitz
