What's the state's role in enacting reform in the near future?

The state of Michigan has a large role in enacting reform.

It used available federal funding to meet the June 23, 2010 deadline to create a temporary high-risk pool for people with pre-existing conditions who've been without coverage for more than six months. This program helps people get coverage prior to 2014, when all insurers will be required to take everyone, regardless of health status.

The state of Michigan will also seek federal funds to set up a health insurance consumer assistance office or ombudsman program and work to connect consumers with the Health and Human Services Internet portal that will include information about health insurance coverage options available in Michigan.