BOISE -- Idaho lawmakers have approved a plan to charge premiums to families who get government-covered health care that allows severely disabled children to be cared for at home rather than in an institution.
Under the plan the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare will start charging the monthly premium based on a family's income level. But lawmakers say paying the premium will be optional for all parents who take part in the Katie Beckett program.
The Post Register reports that the House Health and Welfare Committee approved the plan Wednesday as a state agency rule, meaning it becomes law without having to be approved by either the House or Senate.
The Katie Beckett program costs the state $37 million annually, and Health and Welfare estimates the premiums will save $210,000.
