June 17, 2022
Letter of Support for OMIG Reform Legislation
The Arc New York sent a letter of support to Governor Hochul, strongly endorsing S.4486-A (Harckham) and A.7889 (Gottfried), which have both passed their respective houses and await Governor Hochul’s signature. This bill would amend the public health law regarding the functions of the Office of Medicaid Inspector General (OMIG) with respect to audit and review of medical assistance program funds and requiring notice of certain investigations.

Specifically, S.4486-A/A.7889 requires the OMIG to follow common-sense procedures and practices in provider audit or reviews, including the following:

  • Recoveries of overpayments may not be collected until 60 days after the issuance of a final audit report or final notice of agency action. The OMIG must provide a minimum of 10 days written notice to the provider.
  • Contracts, cost reports, claims, bills, or expenditures that were the subject of a previous audit or review within the last 3 years may not be used for a new audit, unless there is new information, for good cause that the previous audit or review was in error, or the new audit or review is significantly different in scope.
  • In conducting audits or reviews, the OMIG shall apply the laws, regulations, policies, guidelines, etc. of the appropriate agency, including those that were in effect on a temporary or emergency basis, that were in place at the time the subject claim arose, or other conduct took place.

The Arc New York will advance a number of similar letters in the coming weeks and will keep you updated on the results.

The Arc New York Joins National Providers to Support HCBS
This week, American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR) and The Arc New York joined over 460 disability service providers and associations to send a unified message to Senators Chuck Schumer and Mitch McConnell. The letter expresses support for the inclusion of an $150 billion investment to expand access to Medicaid home and community-based services (HCBS) and recruitment and retention of direct care workers.

We have been advocating for this investment consistently over the past year, and must continue our efforts in every form available. This most recent letter demonstrates solidarity with providers from across the nation. To add your voice, you can send your own personalized letter to our representatives through our one-click campaign.
Advocacy & Resource Center to Host OPWDD Regional Forum
The first in-person regional forum for The Office for People with Developmental Disabilities’ (OPWDD) 2023-2027 Draft Strategic Plan will be held next Wednesday, June 22 from 2-4:00 PM, hosted by The Advocacy and Resource Center, the Clinton County Chapter of The Arc New York.

Registration is not required, but is encouraged. More information can be found in the event flyer, and registration can be completed here.
Want to do More?
Visit The Arc New York Advocacy Center for more ways to take action, including campaigns to support federal funding, employment opportunities, and our dedicated workforce. You can also find tools and resources to help you be a stronger advocate for New Yorkers with disabilities.

This and all advocacy updates are archived on The Arc New York website for future reference. Please contact us if you have questions regarding any of this information.
Contact: Philip Aydinian, Director of Governmental Affairs 
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