Gov. Paterson Signs Health Bills in Rochester

By Peter Iglinski

Rochester, NY – Governor Paterson was in Rochester Wednesday to sign a package of health care bills.

One bill allows people who lose their jobs to buy coverage at a reduced cost for a longer period of time.

Paterson says the state is in a dire situation. Paterson says when people lose their jobs, they often lose their health insurance. Paterson says there are 2.5 million New Yorkers without insurance.

A second bill signed Wednesday allows young adults to be covered by their families' insurance plan. It applies to those up to the age of 29.

Dr. Mark Taubman, acting CEO of the University of Rochester Medical Center, says Wednesday was a monumental day for health care in New York State. He says all hospitals are stressed when they take care of the uninsured. Taubman says their goal is to provide the highest care for all New Yorkers.

Paterson signed the health bills in an afternoon ceremony at the University of Rochester Medical Center.
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Click the "Listen" link above to hear WXXI's Bob Smith's Wednesday interview with Governor Paterson.