The American Health Care Association Monday called upon members of Congress to include a temporary increase to states’ Federal Medical Assistance Percentages (FMAP) in any stimulus package that may be passed this year.

As the U.S. Treasury Monday was hammering out details of a $700 billion bailout for the ailing financial services industry, many lawmakers were calling for an accompanying economic stimulus package. AHCA claims that temporarily increasing the FMAP will ensure seniors’ services during the current economic crisis. The association also reminded lawmakers about the success of a similar 2003 effort.

U.S. Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D-WV) and U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ) both introduced legislation earlier this year that would allow for a temporary increase in states’ FMAP. The bills were not considered in time for the year’s first economic stimulus package in June, but healthcare advocacy groups remain hopeful the bills will receive consideration should another stimulus package be considered.