State to stick with partnership exchange, Beebe says

— Gov. Mike Beebe says Arkansas will move forward with its plans to partner with the federal government on an insurance exchange under the health-care law, but says he believes the state could always revisit that decision.

Beebe said Wednesday he doesn’t plan on opting for a state-run exchange since he hasn’t seen support from lawmakers for that model. An exchange would allow households and small businesses to shop for private coverage.

Beebe had left open the possibility of a state-run exchange after the deadline to decide was extended to Friday. Beebe said last month he would rely on legislative leaders to measure support for a state exchange.

Beebe said he believes the state could opt for a state-run model after Friday’s deadline if lawmakers change their minds.

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