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Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) is calling for a pause in the state’s Medicaid work requirements to avoid coverage losses on Jan. 1, The Associated Press reported on Monday. Michigan’s work requirements for Medicaid recipients are set to take effect on New Year's Day. Whitmer’s call for a pause, however, would have to be agreed to by the Republican-controlled legislature, raising doubts about whether it will occur. (Sullivan, 12/2)

Whitmer called on Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey, R-Clarklake, to move a measure forward in the Legislature. She said she admired Shirkey’s work to expand Medicaid coverage under the Affordable Care Act in 2014. Shirkey also sponsored the bill requiring Medicaid recipients to work. The Trump administration opened the door for Medicaid work requirements by approving a handful of state waivers. Gov. Rick Snyder later signed a bill requiring able-bodied recipients of the state’s Healthy Michigan Medicaid program to work or risk losing health care coverage. (Barrett, 12/2)

Her administration will announce some actions related to the work rules in coming days. Whitmer and Democratic U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin held an event in Lansing Monday to encourage people to enroll for insurance under the federal health law. Enrollment ends Dec. 15. (12/2)