Western Regional Press Secretary John Santos released the following statement in response to the Utah GOP’s efforts to curb voter-approved Medicaid expansion:

“Last November, Utah voters passed Prop 3 to increase access to affordable health care through Medicaid expansion. The ballot initiative was a victory for all Utahns because it expands access to quality health care to those who need it most. Unfortunately, Republican Governor Gary Herbert defied voter intent yesterday by signing legislation that limited Medicaid expansion to 60,000 fewer people. This shameless decision by Utah Republicans to defy the will of the people is nothing but a partisan move made at the expense of tens of thousands of Utahns. Democrats believe health care is a right, not a privilege. While Republicans use this blatant power grab to keep health care coverage away from thousands of Utahns, Democrats will continue to fight for access to quality and affordable health care.”