Double coverage for the old, none for the young

Senator John Kerry is championing a bill to encourage states to ensure universal healthcare coverage for youths up to age 21, according to the Boston Globe. The bill would amend Medicaid and offer extra funding to states that provide coverage. Republicans are offering strong opposition.It's curious that there is such support for universal, non-means tested coverage for older people (Medicare) while even means tested coverage for youth is controversial. Many Medicare recipients already have access to retiree health benefits from their employers, although that's changing thanks to Medicare's generosity. I'd rather see Medicare be means tested and Medicaid (for youth) not.