Pennsylvania extends kids’ health program for two years

    Pennsylvania lawmakers are sending a bill to the governor that would extend the Children’s Health Insurance Program for two more years, and move the program from the Insurance Department to the Department of Human Services.

    The House voted unanimously Thursday to renew the program covering more than 150,000 Pennsylvania children who aren’t eligible for Medicaid. Monthly premiums are based on their family’s income.

    The change in state agencies is designed to save money and comply with federal regulations, and shouldn’t affect eligibility, co-payments, benefits or coverage.

    The federal government is expected to pay 90 percent of the cost to shift CHIP into Human Services.

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    Gov. Tom Wolf’s spokesman said he’ll sign the bill.

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