MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- Gov. Scott Walker's plan to reject federally funded Medicaid expansion is drawing criticism from Democrats on the Legislature's budget committee.

Walker's Medicaid plan is the centerpiece of his health care proposals, which were discussed Wednesday by the Legislature's Republican-controlled Joint Finance Committee.

Democratic state Rep. Jon Richards is one of the most vocal critics of Walker's decision to reject the expansion and $4.4 billion in federal money. He says it's not too late for the Republican-controlled Legislature to reverse that decision.

But Republicans have shown no desire to go against Walker's wishes on Medicaid.

Incoming Department of Health Services Secretary Kitty Rhoades defends Walker's plan, saying it will protect those in poverty and keep others covered through private insurance.