Gov. Snyder reviving Blue Cross overhaul plan

LANSING, Mich. (AP) -  Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder has revived his support for overhauling Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan after vetoing legislation last month over an anti-abortion rider.

In his State of the State address Wednesday night, the Republican governor repeated his call for easing regulations on the big insurer and requiring it to pay taxes after it transforms from a charitable trust to a customer-owned nonprofit.

He vetoed the measure in late December because of abortion language added to secure support from Republican legislators.

Blue Cross Vice President Andrew Hetzel says he's encouraged Snyder is making the overhaul a priority.

Supporters say the change is necessary to level the playing field for the industry and prepare for the federal health care law. Critics say it's unnecessary deregulation that short-shrifts the elderly.