Missouri House Speaker Tim Jones (R, Eureka) has been touring the state this week, promoting the so-called three “E’s” that House Republicans say they’ll focus on next year – the economy, energy, and education – but their agenda still likely won’t include a fourth “E,” expansion of Medicaid.

Jones told a group of reporters in Jefferson City today that House budget writers start off every year looking for $150-$200 million for the state’s Medicaid needs.

“To expand that entitlement even further, I think, is reckless,” Jones said. “I think it’s economically reckless…I think it unsustainable into the far future.”