States brace for SCOTUS ruling: Calif. exchange marches on, Texas considers its next steps

In California, the state health insurance exchange is starting its work no matter the outcome of the Supreme Court decision while Texas officials consider their post-decision steps.

California Healthline: Exchange Looks At Outreach, Focus Groups, By-Laws
The Supreme Court decision on the fate of the national health care reform law, expected this week or next, could have a significant impact on the work and purpose of the California Health Benefit Exchange. But that isn't slowing the project one bit. Today, the exchange board meets to discuss some big agenda items: outreach, marketing, insurance coverage assisters and agents, the second phase of its establishment grant and yet another look at its bylaws (Gorn, 6/19).

Texas Tribune: Texans Brace For Supreme Court's Health Care Verdict
As the U.S. Supreme Court prepares to rule on the Affordable Care Act, Texas officials, insurers and physicians are looking at potential outcomes that could keep health care reform in the spotlight for months to come. … No matter which decision is made, the state will continue to be involved in health care debates, said Attorney General Greg Abbott. If the law is upheld, Abbott said, there will probably be new lawsuits -- both at the state and federal levels -- concerning its other components. And if the law is completely struck down, both Congress and Texas will look for other legislation to address health care reform (Luthra, 6/18).