CONCORD - Gov. John Lynch today applauded the House’s strong support of the New Hampshire HealthFirst initiative, which is aimed at helping small businesses better afford health insurance for their workers.

The House passed the bill 259-93. It passed the Senate on a 21-3 vote.

Gov. Lynch unveiled the proposal during his State of the State Address.

“This legislation is an important step forward in helping small businesses better afford health insurance for their workers,” Gov. Lynch said. “I want thank the members of the House for recognizing the importance of keeping health insurance in reach of employers.”

New Hampshire HealthFirst was developed in conjunction with the state Insurance Department, lawmakers and other stakeholders. It will provide comparable coverage to existing health insurance plans, and reduce premiums by addressing the underlying cost drivers of health care increases through better prevention, better care management and more efficient use of health care services.

“This is a plan focused on the patient and on keeping the patient healthy. That translates into better, more cost-effective care,” Gov. Lynch said. “HealthFirst’s aim is to make it possible for workers and their employers to access more affordable, comprehensive coverage. But it also requires all of us to take more responsibility for our own health, to make sure we are taking preventative measures and doing what we can to stay healthy.”

Senate Bill 540 is sponsored by Sens. Kathy Sgambati, Joe Foster, Maggie Hassan, Iris Estabrook, Deb Reynolds, Bob Odell, John Gallus, Jack Barnes, Jackie Cilley, Martha Fuller Clark, Molly Kelly, Lou D'Allesandro, David Gottesman, Sylvia Larsen and Harold Janeway; Reps. Martha McLeod, Sharon Nordgren, Peter Bergin, James Pilliod and Ed Butler.