Reconciliation Update
Earlier this week, the House Energy and Commerce (E&C) Committee released a legislative proposal that outlined its portion of the “big, beautiful” budget reconciliation package. Since the committee oversees Medicaid and had been tasked with finding $880 billion in savings, this is where AHCA/NCAL has been focusing advocacy efforts to protect programs that impact long term care, including Medicaid provider taxes.
E&C has been marking up – or formally considering – the draft legislation since yesterday afternoon. This process includes the offering of numerous amendments as committee members on both sides of the aisle volley priorities before voting on a final bill. As of Wednesday morning, May 14, no new amendments that are critical to long term care have been approved.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
While AHCA/NCAL is reviewing the details, there are several areas in the E&C’s legislation that are of critical importance to our profession:
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Freeze on Provider Taxes: This proposal puts a moratorium on current provider tax rates. Each state can keep its existing provider tax rate, but states will not be permitted to implement new increases to their current rates nor expand the categories of taxed entities to increase funds collected via these taxes.
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10-Year Delay of the Staffing Mandate: As expected, we are grateful that Congress has come to the same conclusion as the profession and determined that the unrealistic staffing mandate should not be implemented or enforced.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
It is important to note that there is still a lot of work to be done: this is just the first version of legislation in a long budget reconciliation process. It is possible that the language and policies may change as this process unfolds.
Once the marked-up legislation leaves E&C, it then must go through two more House committees before it can go to the House floor for consideration. Ultimately, both the House and Senate must agree on a final package. Until then, nothing should be considered final. There is still a long way to go, and our advocacy efforts remain critical.
COME TO CONGRESSIONAL BRIEFING
Join us in Washington, D.C. June 9-10 at Congressional Briefing for a unique opportunity to personally connect with elected members of Congress. With the support and guidance of AHCA/NCAL, you will be equipped with the tools and resources you need to effectively advocate for policies that directly impact our industry – including Medicaid.
In addition to gaining valuable insights into the latest legislative and policy developments, you'll have the opportunity to network with your colleagues, hear from prominent speakers, and earn Continuing Education credits. Don’t miss your chance to make your voice heard—register for Congressional Briefing today!
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