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N.H. Panel Urges Action On Health Overhaul Funding

A committee advising New Hampshire on implementing the federal health overhaul law is urging state lawmakers to move quickly in accepting federal money intended for consumer assistance and outreach.

The Health Exchange Advisory Board, whose members represent consumers, health care providers, insurers and businesses, drafted a letter Friday saying that timely, effective outreach will be impossible unless the Legislature accepts the money.

The Legislature's fiscal committee has delayed action on accepting $340,000 to start setting up a program to help consumers explore their options under the new law, and another $5 million in grant funding is in the Insurance Department's budget request.

Committee members said they worry that consumers will struggle next year when a mix of government programs and tax credits for private insurance kicks in.

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