Nixon reauthorizes tax that funds Missouri Medicaid services

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- A Missouri tax on medical service providers that helps fund the state Medicaid program has been reauthorized by the governor.

Democratic Gov. Jay Nixon on Wednesday signed legislation to continue the tax for another year.

The measure extends taxes on medical providers including hospitals, nursing homes and ambulances. The revenue brings in roughly $3.6 billion for health care through the state's Medicaid services, a significant chunk of the program's funding.

The legislation passed on the final day of the legislative session in May after Senate Democrats broke a filibuster on an unrelated bill to allow a vote on the tax.

The tax would have expired in September if lawmakers took no action.