In what may prove to be a critical indicator of the future of Medicaid funding, a bipartisan group of senators has introduced an amendment that would restore the $14 billion in Medicaid funding cuts in the President’s budget proposal. The senators expect a vote on the amendment tomorrow…
According to California HealthLine, 14 sponsors and co-sponsors:
“have introduced a bill that would create a commission of experts to evaluate Medicaid and recommend improvements before lawmakers cut funding or make changes to the program. The commission would be made of experts to be appointed by the president, Congress, governors, and state and local officials. Commission members would hold public meetings and deliver recommendations on how to improve Medicaid (American Health Line, 2/10).
The amendment’s sponsorship is important, as it indicates the Senators have listened to their states’ governors, who were all but unanimous in their protest over the cuts. Clearly, the Administration’s desire for a quick resolution to the Medicaid budget issue will not be satisfied. In fact, many governors are actually asking for additional funds, as Medicaid expenses continue to grow at rapid rates.
Mar
16
