BILLINGS - In the last 5 years the percentage of uninsured children in Montana has risen from 19% to nearly 30%. Initiative 155, also known as the Healthy Montana Kids Plan, would expand coverage to more Montana kids.

Right now Montana children whose families can't afford health insurance can be covered under CHIP if their parents make 175 % or less of the federal poverty level. That calculates out to around $37,000 a year for a family of four. But if I-155 passes on Tuesday, the income level will be raised to 250 %, or $53,000 a year for a family of 4. "Unfortunately Montana has the highest percentage of uninsured kids in the US. It's bad for their health, it's bad for everyone's pocket book." says a supporter of the plan, state auditor John Morrison.

I-155 will also provide premium assistance for families making 200 to 350% of the poverty level, making it possible for families earning $74,000 a year to get government help. And that's where its critics have a problem. "The original version of I-155 was for low income kids that couldn't get insurance, now that they've raised the income level parents with kids that already have insurance can take their kids off and put them on the government insurance." says state senator Roy Brown who opposes the initiative.

Experts estimate the new program would cost 22 million in state dollars every year . However the program would receive matching federal funds. "It will also introduce tens of millions of federal money into the Montana economy from matching funds." says Morrison.

The Healthy Montana Kids Plan would also establish a program to identify kids who are eligible but not already enrolled. The initiative is not a new program, but would unify CHIP and Children's Medicaid while expanding eligibility.