Bill would use federal funds to help Missourians pay for COVID-19 tests
Federal funds would help cover costs for Missourians seeking a COVID-19 test under legislation approved by the state Senate on Thursday.
The plan, which still needs final approval in the House, directs the state Department of Health and Senior Services to use available federal funds for any portion of the cost of testing not covered by an individual’s health insurance.
The test must be ordered by a health care provider, and the cost is capped at $150.
Senate Minority Leader John Rizzo, D-Independence, attached the testing amendment to a sprawling health care bill Wednesday night.
He said the only way to truly reopen the state’s economy is for people to feel safe. And that is dependent on ensuring widespread testing is available.
“You can put an open for business sign on your front door,” Rizzo said, “but that doesn’t mean people will return.”
Rizzo has been highly critical of the legislature’s decision to return to session to debate and pass legislation that is not related to COVID-19.
During debate on his testing measure Wednesday night, he complained that there have been discussions of “brass knuckles and mud flaps and gerrymandering” but little focus on issues like access to testing.
“I thought if we were going to pass a health care bill,” he said, “it should address testing.”
Missouri Gov. Mike Parson has made expanded testing a pillar of relaxing the restrictions put on businesses to slow the spread of COVID-19.
The state expanded its testing criteria last month and is encouraging physicians to test more widely, especially within vulnerable and at-risk populations. Parson said Wednesday that between the Missouri State Public Health Laboratory, at least 15 private labs, and participating health care institutions, approximately 60,000 tests could be performed in Missouri each week if needed.
Rizzo said the purpose of his amendment is to ensure that if a doctor says someone needs a test they can get one at no cost.
“This will allow us to relieve pressure from people when they’re wondering if they should go get tested,” he said.
