Incoming Senate President Mike Haridopolos’ increased focus on Medicaid and health-care issues is earning the praise of Sen. John Thrasher of Jacksonville, the chairman of the Republican Party of Florida.

"Medicaid reform needs to be a top priority of the Republican-led Legislature, and it is imperative that we listen to all sides of the issue and fully understand how the state can implement a cost-saving, patient-centered reform plan," said Thrasher. Haridopolos is making a tour of medical facilities next week across the state.

“Senator Haridopolos knows firsthand how important health care is to Floridians, with his wife, Stephanie, being a respected family practice doctor," said Thrasher, noting this was more important in light of a judge shooting down a Republican-led challenge to take on new federal health-care laws backed by President Barack Obama. "And with the recent decision to remove Amendment 9 from the ballot, it is up to Florida's current and future leaders to do their due diligence on this important issue facing our state."