Another Waiver Delay

There is no deal yet between the state and federal government on a multi-billion dollar Medicaid spending plan. Today the state asked for another two week extension of the agreement that was to expire June 30th. Governor Deval Patrick said last week that state and federal negotiators are close to reaching a deal. This Medicaid waiver is a critical part of funding the state's health coverage law and many parts of the health care system. Even a small decrease would be difficult to absorb when the state already expects a one billion dollar budget shortfall this year.