State Senate President Pro Temp Darrell Steinberg has laid out a funding plan to expand coverage to all of California's uninsured children. Steinberg says it won't require additional state funds. KPBS Reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.
Steinberg wants to get 50 million dollars from the state's largest health foundation, the California Endowment. He's asking for the same amount from the commission that distributes proceeds from the voter-approved 50-cents-a-pack cigarette tax.
The Obama Administration could contribute additional funds.
Wendy Lazarus is with an advocacy group called The Children's Partnership . She thinks Steinberg's plan just might work.
Wendy Lazarus: We're all optimistic that this is one of those rare, public-private partnerships that really has legs, and would make a huge difference for families who are really struggling right now.
The cost to cover all of California's uninsured kids could top 500-million dollars.
Kenny Goldberg, KPBS News.
