The Maine Legislature failed to pass an emergency budget aimed at closing a $118 million gap in the MaineCare program, which provides healthcare to over 400,000 Mainers. The budget also includes funds for other needs, such as fighting the spruce budworm infestation threatening Maine forests. Despite bipartisan support in committee, Republicans backed out at the last minute, citing concerns about the sustainability of MaineCare and wanting to see changes, including limits on general assistance programs. Democrats accused the GOP of playing political games and leaving healthcare facilities vulnerable to closure. The emergency budget needs Republican support to pass, with another round of voting scheduled for February 25.
Assistant Senate Minority Leader Matt Harrington (R-Sanford) argued that changes are necessary to address the unsustainable nature of MaineCare, while Democrats stressed the urgency of passing the budget to ensure timely payments to healthcare providers. Sen. Peggy Rotundo (D-Lewiston) emphasized that the emergency budget only addresses immediate needs and that larger policy issues will be addressed in the two-year budget discussions. Governor Janet Mills urged lawmakers to act swiftly to prevent disruptions in healthcare payments.
The budget not only covers the MaineCare shortfall but also addresses rising healthcare costs and reduced federal financial support for the program. The impact of delaying the budget’s passage could result in delayed payments to hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. The larger two-year budget is still under discussion, with public hearings scheduled through the end of the month.
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