Yes on 802 campaign ready to turn in signatures

OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) — Carly Putnam with the Oklahoma Policy Institute said many in the state struggle to get the healthcare they need. She said State Question 802, if passed, would expand access to Medicaid.

"A lot of Oklahomans right now can't see a doctor or fill a prescription and are dealing with a lot of untreated chronic illnesses," Putnam said. "By bringing our tax dollars home to get them the care they need, we'll have people that are better able to work and parent."

The Yes on 802 campaign said it will turn in signatures for the petition on Thursday.

Campaign manager Amber England said it's worked across the state to gather the signatures.

"Over the last 90 days we've had over 72 events and trained over 1,000 volunteers," England said. "We've collected signatures all over the state."

Putnam said this will provide health services needed by many Oklahomans. She said this is something they haven't been able to access in the past.

"By just helping people get that really basic access to treatment whether it's for asthma, whether it's for bipolar disorder or any other range of factors," Putnam said. "Or just helping people out if they step off a curb wrong and they hear a pop in their ankle."

England said she has a goal of keeping healthcare available across Oklahoma. She said putting the question on the ballot begins that process.

"This issue hits home and is so personal to so many people because everyone knows someone in their community or in their families who lacks access to care," England said.

The Yes on 802 campaign needs just over 177,000 signatures to be put for a vote on the ballot.