Democrats in the House and Senate last week released economic stimulus package proposals that would expand Medicaid funding to states.
The proposals were released amidst discussions of a $700 billion economic bailout plan for the financial sector. The Senate’s $56.2 billion package would increase the Federal Medical Assistance Percentages (FMAP) by 4% and increase funding for the National Institutes of Health by $1.2 billion. A House version would provide an extra $13 billion for Medicaid, according to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
While the new packages would provide much-needed relief to states and healthcare agencies, many conservative lawmakers stand against it, according to the Associated Press. President Bush has also voiced his opposition to the proposals.
