Dayton Says Medicaid Delay ‘Totally Unacceptable’

ST. PAUL (AP) -- Gov.-elect Mark Dayton is calling a nine-month delay to expand Medicaid health care for the poor "totally unacceptable."

Dayton responded Thursday to testimony by the state Medicaid director that it would take until October to implement the expansion because of computer conversions and staff training.

The incoming Democratic governor has promised to order the expansion when he takes office Jan. 3. Minnesota is eligible for federal aid to cover more generous health coverage for low-income adults.

Dayton says he was surprised when another human services official told lawmakers the state would break even on the Medicaid expansion, after predictions from departing Gov. Tim Pawlenty's administration that it would cost the state. Pawlenty's administration stands by its numbers.

Dayton says he will meet with Human Services Commissioner Cal Ludeman on Monday.