Colorado's Medicaid program is growing at an alarming rate, outpacing the state's budget and leaving lawmakers scrambling to find ways to pay for it. The program's growth has been so rapid that it's now consuming nearly 41% of the state's operating budget, up from just 27% in 2013. But what's behind this surge in spending, and what does it mean for the state's future?

In this episode, the speaker delves into the numbers behind Colorado's Medicaid program, revealing some surprising insights. From the state's decision to expand coverage and add new benefits, to the federal funding that's been pouring in, the speaker examines the factors driving the program's growth. Along the way, they uncover some eye-opening examples of how the state's estimates have been consistently underestimated, leaving taxpayers footing the bill.

One of the key issues is the state's decision to expand coverage and add new benefits, which has led to a significant increase in spending. The speaker highlights some specific examples, including the "Cover All Coloradans" program, which was estimated to cost $9.5 million but is now costing $87.7 million. They also discuss the impact of the federal funding that's been pouring in, and how it's contributing to the program's growth.

As the state grapples with the implications of its Medicaid program, the speaker argues that it's time for a change. They propose a new approach, one that involves transparency and accountability, where the state publishes every program's actual costs and the sponsors' names. By doing so, they believe the state can make more informed decisions about which programs to keep and which to cut. If you're interested in understanding the complexities of Colorado's Medicaid program and the challenges it poses, tune in to this episode to hear the speaker's insightful analysis.