Casey Urges Passage of FMAP Funding
WASHINGTON, DC— U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) today again urged leaders in the Senate to move to pass increased federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) funding for states to avoid state budget cuts and layoffs. In a letter urging that the measure be added to the next available legislative vehicle, Senator Casey highlighted the urgency of the measure to Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania’s budget has assumed the state would receive $850 million from increased FMAP assistance. “In the current economic climate where states are struggling with severe state budget deficits, it is imperative that the Senate approve an extension of FMAP funding through June 30, 2011,” wrote Senator Casey. “Without the extended FMAP funding, Governors in several states will be forced to make drastic cuts that will result in the loss of jobs and a reduction in social service programs. These actions will harm the economic recovery and hurt some of the most vulnerable adults and children who depend on the servic...