Rhode Island: Gov. Raimondo signs Exec Order to protect ACA

via U.S. News & World Report:

Later Wednesday, [Democratic Governor Gina] Raimondo held her own news conference to sign an executive order that, among other steps, directs the state to seek to codify in state law protections for people with preexisting conditions, dependents up to age 26, prescription drug benefits and maternity coverage in case federal action is taken to weaken the Affordable Care Act.

Rhode Island has one of the highest insured rates in the country, and Raimondo said she was defending "Rhode Islanders' access to high-quality, affordable health coverage."

I'm not quite sure what an executive order has to do with codifying ACA protections into law, since that's really up to the state legislature to do, but I guess it at least kicks their butts into gear?

This is also refreshing to hear from a Republican challenger:

Asked what he would do to protect health coverage for those with pre-existing conditions, [Republican gubernatorial challenger Allan] Fung pointed out that he has a sister who is developmentally disabled.

"I would not make any changes to the existing exchange program, whether it's pre-existing condition, taking away coverage, especially for college students or anything else," Fung said. "I'm going to keep the exchange exactly how it is, our state exchange," adding "I would absolutely do whatever I can to protect Rhode Island residents."

He said he also would not support any changes to Medicaid eligibility.

Well, OK then. I guess Fung is planning on being a "Charlie Baker/Larry Hogan"-style "reasonable" Republican when it comes to healthcare policy if he manages to unseat Raimondo...or at least he wants Rhode Islanders to think he would be.