Murkowski still studying new ObamaCare repeal bill

Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), who could be the deciding vote on a new ObamaCare repeal bill, says she is still studying the measure and its effects on Alaska.

“I need to figure out how all the numbers work with regards to Alaska,” she told a small group of reporters Monday.

She did indicate she would have to make sure there would be enough money for Alaska in the new block grants in the bill.

“We understand what block grants do, but if you get more flexibility, but with not enough money to utilize the flexibility, that makes a difference,” she said.

She said she met with Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.), one of the main sponsors of the bill, last week to go over numbers.

Asked if the bill is better than the Senate’s repeal and replace measure in July, which she voted against, Murkowski said, “I still have to figure that out.”

Murkowski also indicated she would prefer a bipartisan process, and pointed to a separate effort currently in the Senate health committee aimed at stabilizing ObamaCare. 

“We’re now having bipartisan hearings; I have applauded those,” she said.

“I always think that when you can get support for whatever the initiative from across the spectrum, it’s just better legislation,” she added.

Democrats are warning that Alaska and other states would face funding cuts under the block grants in the bill.

The left-leaning Center on Budget and Policy Priorities estimates that Alaska would face a $255 million cut in 2026 under the bill.