By Laura Weber, Michigan Public Radio Network
LANSING, MI –
Pieces of the national health care reform plan took effect this week. Governor Granholm used her weekly radio address to talk about the changes.
"No longer can insurance companies deny coverage for children under age 19 based on a preexisting medical condition," she said. "Also, in this tough economy, it's difficult for many young people to afford health insurance. Now insurers and employers who provide dependant coverage available to children up to age 26."
Granholm says there will be many more changes down the road, such as cheaper coverage options for the uninsured and those with individual health care plans.
Michigan is part of a multi-state lawsuit against the federal government to allow states to opt out of the national health care plan. Republican Attorney General Mike Cox added Michigan to the action over Granholm's objection.