Here’s a summary of what voters approved in other states that link to public health policy. There are a few surprises in here- at least things that I found surprising.
Idaho, Nebraska, and Utah voted to expand their Medicaid programs (up to 138% of the federal poverty level). Idaho’s Proposition 2 was approved by 61% of voters and Nebraska’s passed with 53% approval (called Initiative 427 to expand Medicaid). Interestingly, neither of those states established a funding mechanism.
Utah’s Proposition 3 was approved by 54% of voters and funds the expansion with a 0.15% increase to the state’s sales tax. There are now 14 states left that haven’t expanded Medicaid. With gubernatorial party changes in Wisconsin & Kansas perhaps those states may be next.
Proposals related to marijuana were on the ballot in five states. Utah voters approved a medical marijuana initiative (Proposition 2) by a 53-47 percent margin. Interestingly, it will be a strictly “edibles” based program (prohibits the medical marijuana).
Missouri voters approved Amendment 2 (with 66% of the vote) that gives the Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services oversight of the state’s new medical marijuana program.
Michigan approved a measure to allowing adults to use marijuana for non-medical purposes and a retail sale program. Proposal 18-1 directs Michigan’s Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs to oversee the commercial production and retail sale of marijuana.