New stimulus package proposals unveiled with Medicaid increases

New stimulus package proposals unveiled with Medicaid increases
New stimulus package proposals unveiled with Medicaid increases
Democrats in the House and Senate last week released economic stimulus package proposals that would expand Medicaid funding to states.

The proposals were released amidst discussions of a $700 billion economic bailout plan for the financial sector. The Senate's $56.2 billion package would increase the Federal Medical Assistance Percentages (FMAP) by 4% and increase funding for the National Institutes of Health by $1.2 billion. A House version would provide an extra $13 billion for Medicaid, according to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

While the new packages would provide much-needed relief to states and healthcare agencies, many conservative lawmakers stand against it, according to the Associated Press. President Bush has also voiced his opposition to the proposals.

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