Search for “medicaid”
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Pandemic response drove increase in government assistance in Michigan
One-third of the state is on government assistance. COVID-19 response was the dividing line
… welfare checks, health care and Medicaid, one in three Michigan residents … categories went up.
The number of Medicaid recipients in Michigan grew 21% since … have to verify the eligibility of Medicaid recipients. That has changed. The … people were purged from Michigan’s Medicaid rolls just since the start of 2024. … more
One-third of Michigan residents receive government assistance
Number has grown 30% since Whitmer took office
… 2023 is 30% higher than the roughly 2.6 million served in 2019, when Whitmer took office.
State welfare assistance programs include the following: Medicaid, food stamps, State Emergency Relief, the Family Independence Program, State Disability Assistance and Child Development and Care.
The Michigan … more
Local governments in Michigan can’t keep extra cash from tax foreclosures, but state has other ways to claim money
An auction netted the county $260k, says an heir whose aunt’s property was taken by officials, but Medicaid administrators may take it all anyway
… Services asserted a claim of its own.
The department said that under the policy of estate recovery, it was due the surplus as repayment for funds its Medicaid program had spent on Bouford-Hiar’s behalf.
The circuit court agreed with the state, and in August 2021, put a pause on Litzner’s suit against the … more
Federal drug pricing program drives up drug prices
A bill in Michigan may make transparency harder in the 340B program
… 11.75% of its patients are in Medicaid. In the past decade, many … limits of those eligible for Medicaid, exploding the total number … improved, lawmakers expanded Medicaid, adding more than 800,000 … government health care rolls. Medicaid is now 27% of the Michigan … people became eligible for Medicaid, more hospitals and clinics … more
SEIU Healthcare Michigan is under trusteeship once again
Its second trusteeship in five years owes to ‘substantiated allegations of serious malpractice’
… the early 2000s, SEIU locals across the country, including its Michigan affiliate, took millions of dollars from people who were getting paid by Medicaid to care for their disabled family members in their own home. The union did this by enrolling these caregivers as members, usually without their consent, … more
The New Republic Says Unions Are Making a Comeback
But the ancient magazine of political insiders gives no evidence, and Michigan numbers indicate the opposite
… Employees International Union went from 47,805 to 16,486, a 65.5% decrease. The union was sued after it illegally diverted more than $6 million in Medicaid funds to itself, taking money meant for disabled individuals who had hired others, often their family members, to help them at home. Critics called … more
Hospitals Collect More Fed Drug Purchase Subsidies, Intended Beneficiaries Don’t Get More Care
Studies’ evidence suggest federal program is mostly padding hospitals’ bottom lines
… applies to drug makers that want to serve the markets funded by Medicare and Medicaid. Under it, the companies must sell certain drugs at a discount to hospitals … who lacked insurance coverage. The study noted also that enlarging the Medicaid program under the Affordable Care Act increased public spending costs. … more
Hospital Chain: ‘Patently False’ That Staffing Shortage Due To Its Vaccine Mandate
Henry Ford says just 1% of its workforce left; in January feds sent in Disaster Medical Assistant Team
… Nov. 4 the federal government would require COVID-19 vaccinations by Jan. 4 for all U.S. health care workers whose employers receive Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements. On Jan. 13, the U.S. Supreme Court let stand a federal vaccine mandate imposed on 17 million health care workers nationwide. more
Four Hospitals That Take Federal Money To Help Low-Income Patients Do Less To Help Than Those That Don't
… participating hospitals are more profitable than non-participating hospitals.
The 340B government program is designed to assist patients not eligible for Medicaid or Medicare but still are low income and help pay for prescription medications. Hospitals call this charity care which means they do not expect to … more
Auditors Find State Overpaid Medicaid Home Health Vendors $39.4 Million
Could be worse: A previous audit found a $160 million loss
… Michigan has delivered millions of dollars in overpayments to vendors under a Medicaid program meant to help needy people with daily activities such as bathing, … the first time the Office of the Auditor General found issues with the Medicaid Home Help Program. In an audit covering October 2010 through August 2013, … more
Report: Controversial Drug Rationing Scheme Eyed By Trump, Biden Administrations
Expert panels decide whether extra years added by certain treatments worth the cost
… considered using review panels to decide whether America’s Medicare and Medicaid programs should pay for certain treatments.
Under this system, the panels … year.
Michigan does not use QALY for treatment decisions in the state’s Medicaid program, state officials told Michigan Capitol Confidential last year. … more
Less Road Funding from the Road-Fixing Governor
State spending up, but not for roads
… got in fiscal year 2018-19. The Department of Health and Human Services gets $554 million more, partially because there are more people covered by Medicaid in the pandemic. Michigan took a year off from its taxpayer-paid tourism advertising program, and reinstating it is more of a priority for lawmakers … more
State Budget Recovers From Pandemic
Weak case for additional federal coronavirus relief
… billion of that is fueled by federal revenue and $330 million comes in added state spending. In September, there were 228,000 more people receiving Medicaid, the biggest program of the department, than there were in February. One motivation for the federal relief efforts was to ensure people remained … more
State 'General Fund' Revenue Flat? Only Because Lawmakers Shifted Money Around
Over 10 years, total state revenues grew 16% faster than inflation
… on each pack of cigarettes. Instead of putting all of that money in the General Fund, the Legislature instead transferred 75% of it to the state Medicaid Trust Fund.
In 2015, state lawmakers chose to redirect $600 million in income tax revenue from the General Fund and moved it to the State Transportation … more
Defund Corporate Welfare Agency for Better Public Health
Higher taxes won't be as effective at eliminating smoking habits
… attorneys general from most American states settled lawsuits against large tobacco companies, having first asserted that governments needed to recoup Medicaid-related costs associated with the sale of tobacco products. The tobacco “Master Settlement Agreement” that resulted from the lawsuits came with a … more
Revisit Spending Priorities
Lawmakers won't have as much revenue to spend this year
… majority of its money on schools and Medicaid. This spending has steadily increased … tend to drive state spending on Medicaid. The state expanded its Medicaid coverage to more people above the … emergency, the state should require Medicaid enrollees to report changes in circumstances … more
Michigan’s State Government Can Afford to Operate With Less Revenue
Lawmakers should avoid taking on debt or raising taxes
… taxes or going into debt.
The state has over $1 billion saved for such an occasion. The federal government has also already provided some relief for Medicaid and education expenses, and it can loosen restrictions on some other assistance that has already been made available.
Even with extra cash, lawmakers … more
Michigan Lawmakers Ought to Consider Budget Savings Before Tax Hikes or Debt
They should look within the existing budget to address any fiscal shortfalls
… government to prevent some spending reductions. The federal government has already announced grants to state and local governments for education and Medicaid spending. There are further federal grants to state and local governments already approved, though they come with some restrictions we have argued … more
‘Senseless’ Elective Surgery Lockdown May Put Hillsdale Hospital Under
Testing, x-rays, blood draws, operating room, staff: ‘We lose everything’
… Hillsdale’s revenue comes from treating patients covered by social welfare programs: 70% of all it health care service reimbursements are from Medicare and Medicaid. Such programs typically pay less than private insurers do.
“We’re the third-largest employer in the county,” Hodshire said. “If we were to continue … more
Michigan’s Personal Income Tax During Pandemic
Pressure on tax revenues and the services the taxes pay for
… allocations are to prisons, Medicaid and state universities. … them may be eligible for Medicaid. The pandemic may also cause … for people to be covered by Medicaid, and it makes those groups … If the number of people in Medicaid needing treatment for COVID-19 … and physicians receive from Medicaid are less than the costs they … more
Michigan House Bill Package Increases Road Funding Without Raising Taxes
The state’s current budget debate is not about cuts
… the $10.6 billion income tax to schools, for instance, but other spending interests don’t call that spending — $2.9 billion worth — as a cut to Medicaid or whatever other spending item that could have received that money.
Schools and roads aren’t the only things that lawmakers care about, either, … more
Michigan Should Move Forward With Medicaid Work Requirements
Work requirements empower people to become financially independent
… able-bodied adults receiving Medicaid benefits through the state’s … said that the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare, or CMS, had … we should recognize about Medicaid work and community engagement … issue with the Center for Medicaid and Medicare and its analysis. … it will continue to defend Medicaid work requirement waivers … more
Michigan Officials Skeptical of Controversial Drug Rationing Program
Who decides what another year of life is worth to a person?
… welfare programs, including Medicaid.
Researchers at the Pioneer … health systems like state Medicaid programs, use it, the researchers … Institute analysis, said Medicaid programs that use the assessments … perilous ground, because many Medicaid recipients are disabled. … analysis found.
Michigan’s Medicaid program does not use QALY, … more
10 Years Of Michigan Capitol Confidential Online
If CapCon doesn’t report it, who will?
… extensively – and, at first, exclusively — on how unions and state agencies entered a deal to “unionize” home caregivers and extract “dues” from the small Medicaid stipends the receive. Many of these caregivers were friends or family members of the disabled individuals they help. But the unions claimed they … more
CapCon’s Top 10 Stories For 2019
Road Fix That Wasn’t, Gun-Free Zones, 1,100 Windmills Won’t Replace This Coal Plant
… only, not federal or local dollars.
No. 4
Headline: Republicans Imposed Medicaid Work Requirements; Governor Wants To Undo Them
From the story: Michigan’s … predecessor to require childless, able-bodied beneficiaries of the Obamacare Medicaid expansion to meet work, training or community service requirements. In … more
The Bipartisan State Budget
Budgets generate a lot of conflict, but not a lot of partisan spending
…
Big policy decisions that impact the state budget are often made outside the annual budget process. For instance, lawmakers chose to expand its Medicaid services in 2013 which requires billions in additional taxpayer spending. Annual budgets only provide the money to pay for that decision rather than … more
Large Hospitals Want State Monopoly On New Cancer Treatment
And a state commission will give it to them unless legislature acts
… as a free-market conservative, “but health care is not a free market,” he said. “Half of all customers are covered by the government (Medicare and Medicaid).” While new cellular therapies using blood modified in a laboratory are promising, he said, they are also extremely expensive and perilous.
“The … more
Economic Growth Drives Budget Priorities
Largest gains were schools, roads and Medicaid
… Legislature’s top priorities: schools, roads and Medicaid.
The transportation budget increased from $5.0 …
The largest increases in state spending are on Medicaid. With federal transfers, the state is budgeted … human services department, up from $25.5 billion. Medicaid itself counts for the bulk of the increases, … more
The Michigan Budget Fight Is Not Over Roads – It’s Everything Else
Budgets should be in line with lawmakers' priorities
… spending across the board, with the two largest increases being $523 million more for schools and $446 million for health and human services, especially Medicaid. The House and Senate budgets increase spending in these areas as well, but more modestly.
Lawmakers should propose budgets in line with their priorities. … more
Whitmer Coy On ‘Medicare For All,’ But Went Extra Mile For Obamacare’s Medicaid
A parliamentary maneuver that raised eyebrows
… state up for the Obamacare Medicaid expansion. Whitmer joined … more people eligible for Medicaid and was expected to send … get that in the Senate. So, Medicaid expansion could not begin … immediately. That way, the Medicaid expansion would go into effect … (unrecorded) vote, and the Medicaid expansion went into effect … more
Growth Fuels Budget Priorities in House and Senate Budgets
Real Cuts to Corporate Welfare on the Table
… That’s good. Select spending to local projects is constitutionally dubious and generally wasteful.
All three recommend spending more state money on Medicaid as the federal government decreases its share. Overall, state spending on the health and human services budget increases by a low of $348 million … more
Worries Over Medicaid Costs No Reason to Oppose No-Fault Reform
Any increased costs would be dwarfed by the savings drivers will achieve
… increased costs for both Medicaid and private health insurance. … overall state spending on Medicaid.
The Michigan Senate Fiscal … potential increased cost of Medicaid from these no-fault reforms … amount the state spends on Medicaid and overall. In fiscal 2017, … spent about $16.8 billion on Medicaid. Even if the state had to … more
No-Fault Reform Plans Will Save Drivers Money
Both Senate and House bills empower Michigan drivers to reduce their insurance premiums
… insurers. Large private health insurers and government programs like Medicare, Medicaid and workers’ compensation establish a set fee for each service that they … a no-fault policy can cost significantly more than an MRI paid for by Medicaid — sometimes 10 times as much.
Both SB 1 and HB 4397 would establish a … more
Dues Skimming Meets Its Demise
Federal rule ends a union's ability to involuntarily take money from home health care givers
… health care dues skim, whereby Medicaid grants meant to fund the … been skimmed off the top of Medicaid payments meant to provide … Eventually the dues skim ended, Medicaid recipients got their full … divert around $200 million in Medicaid funds. The new federal rule … than the care provider or Medicaid recipient. The unions will … more
Republicans Imposed Medicaid Work Requirements; Governor Wants to Undo Them
Gov. Whitmer wants U-turn on making able-bodied medical welfare recipients get a job
… beneficiaries of the Obamacare Medicaid expansion to meet work, training … predicted that Michigan’s new Medicaid work requirements would cause … according to national experts on Medicaid and health care policy, many … may explain why people left Medicaid after that state implemented … said in an interview that Medicaid and any work requirements … more
Bill Aims At Teen Vaping, Hits Adult Smokers
$1.50-per-pack cigarette tax hike would bring in more for general fund and medical welfare
… statement published on the House Democratic Caucus website that the increased cigarette tax revenue would help support spending on public schools and Medicaid. She also said that expanding the tax to alternative nicotine-delivery systems was prompted by concerns that minors were using them.
“E-cigarettes … more
State Licensing Didn’t Stop Funeral Home Horror Shows
Policymakers should review areas where licenses are required
… state. The remains of 63 infants were found in the home, the vast majority possessed without authorization. The funeral home allegedly also billed Medicaid and the Detroit Medical Center for burying the remains, which it obviously did not do.
The Cantrell Funeral Home also was the target of state and … more
Medical Welfare Programs Look To Price Another Year Of Life
Is a beneficiary’s ‘quality-adjusted life year’ worth the cost of a drug?
Medicaid and other medical welfare entitlement programs have created expectations that are bigger than … would primarily affect low-income individuals in Medicaid, a means-tested program. Almost all U.S. seniors, … the British public if a disabled child in the Medicaid program were denied a lifesaving or life-altering … more
State Revenue Looks Stagnant If Only Some Funds Are Excluded
Spending interests imply taxpayers not contributing enough
… state accounts. For example, 75 percent of the revenue from a 75 cent per pack cigarette tax increase enacted in 2004 was earmarked to the state Medicaid Trust Fund rather than the General Fund. Lawmakers can also make the General Fund larger or smaller by allocating less or more annual revenue to … more
Up 10 Percent And $3.2 Billion, State Still ‘Starved For Revenue’
Long-time budget analysts stuck on half-empty
… email seeking comment. Bean responded to an email, but he claimed the Senate Fiscal Agency numbers that it cited included federal dollars including Medicaid expansion money. They did not. more
Media, Left Blame Deficit On People Keeping More Of What They Earn
They don’t like tax cuts but do like government spending
… debt problem is that the major entitlement programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, grow faster than the government can bring in revenue regardless of what … years because of the growth in spending on Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid.”
James Wallner, a senior fellow at the R Street Institute, told Michigan … more
Granholm: Income Tax Would Be Lower If GOP Left It Alone
Republicans repealed scheduled reductions in former Democratic governor’s 2007 tax hike
… because government has become accustomed to the revenue,” he said.
Pavlov pointed to special interests, including those focused on the 2013 Obamacare Medicaid expansion, and a steady increase in funding for public schools. His explanation for the initial 2007 vote to increase rates was that “the tax eaters … more
Happy New (Fiscal) Year; State Spending Up But Not By Much
Inflation-adjusted figures show Snyder mostly held the line on spending
Spurred by the Obamacare Medicaid expansion and increases in the state gas tax and vehicle registration tax, overall spending by Michigan’s state government … due to the Legislature and governor accepting the Affordable Care Act Medicaid expansion in 2013.
The Michigan Department of Transportation’s spending … more
Medicaid Dues Skim May Come To An End, After All
Friends, relatives of disabled individuals among those swept into public sector unions
… health aides employed by Medicaid beneficiaries. This in-home … union dues was skimmed from Medicaid checks.
In Michigan, the … to skim $34.4 million from Medicaid checks between November 2006 … unions to take a share of Medicaid money that was meant to pay … the court held that these Medicaid home health care providers … more
Gov. Rick Snyder’s Fiscal Policy Legacy
A review
…
The Snyder administration pressed legislators to accept the Obamacare Medicaid expansion that made families and childless adults with incomes of up to … shaped where state government is today: There is more money for roads, Medicaid, schools and for a rainy day, too.
There were both tax increases and … more
Policy Proposed for Medicaid Workers Too Broad, Harms Patients and Consumers
… would severely limit people who have criminal backgrounds from working as Medicaid providers. It makes sense in many cases to impose restrictions, but blanket … abuse counselors and peer coaches. Not only is this a needless change to Medicaid policy, it is likely to negatively impact public safety by taking away … more
Bill Schuette Talks State Government
‘The growth is in states that have lower taxes and fewer regulations’
… paychecks and lower taxes. We’ve talked about that; I think that helps people who are low income.
Also, I think requiring a work requirement for Medicaid for able-bodied adults who are not seniors are important. Because this element of work is an ethic and in a culture we need to reinforce all the … more
Reverse Course on Restricting Medicaid Workers With Criminal Backgrounds
Michigan Department of Health and Human Services pushing new rules
… would severely limit people who have criminal backgrounds from working as Medicaid providers. It makes sense in many cases to impose restrictions, but blanket … abuse counselors and peer coaches. Not only is this a needless change to Medicaid policy, it is likely to negatively impact public safety by taking away … more
Dr. Jim Hines Talks State Government
‘If renewable energies are so good ... then why not get rid of the subsidies and the mandates?’
…
HINES: Cash bonds.
CARTER: Yes, okay.
HINES: Cash bonds. And you know I could pay the thousand dollars —
CARTER: Sure.
HINES: — but someone on Medicaid, or something with a low income is not going to be able to pay that, and they’re going to end up spending time in jail. And then there’s the driver’s … more
Sen. Patrick Colbeck Talks State Government
‘You got to sometimes swing for the fences,’ says gubernatorial candidate
… the Michigan budget, and that’s Medicaid. That’s coming in at $18 billion … care. I’ve got a pilot going on in Medicaid right now for Medicaid enrollment; it’s to get access to … welfare, you’re taking them off of Medicaid, you save about $6,000 per person … more
Michigan Economy Rebounds, But Medicaid Enrollment Soars
Republicans drove increase in Medicaid spending while food stamps decline
… receiving either food stamps or Medicaid assistance increased by over … in the number collecting Medicaid benefits.
The number of … 2009. But the number getting Medicaid benefits grew by 815,714 … received either food stamps or Medicaid. Roughly 215,000 people received … largely driven by the Obamacare Medicaid expansion championed by Gov. … more
The Great Lakes Trough Truce
Spending interest groups only ask for more money
… progress at cost-effective rates.
Of course, these groups are not the only ones to engage in such a tactic. State universities don’t complain about Medicaid. The prison union doesn’t complain about road funding. Environmental cleanup contractors don’t complain about Pure Michigan advertising. Instead, … more
Sponsor Of Medicaid Work Requirements: They’re The ‘Right Thing To Do’
Able-bodied beneficiaries would have to get a job, get training, go to school or do community service
… as a condition of getting Medicaid health benefits.
These bills … Michigan’s acceptance of the Medicaid expansion under the Affordable … requirements a condition of getting Medicaid health coverage from the … specified requirements to get Medicaid. The requirements differ … authorizing the Obamacare Medicaid expansion also required the … more
As Medicaid Costs Skyrocket, States Have a New Opportunity to Innovate
New guidance on work requirements indicates potential for reforms
States have seen Medicaid costs skyrocket over the last decade … comes from the Center for Medicaid Services, which last week … federal guidance for the Medicaid program, which includes giving … greater flexibility in their Medicaid programs.
Take Michigan, … conversations about Michigan’s rising Medicaid expansion costs, which will … more
Michigan Legislature’s 10 Most Revealing Votes of 2017
Which side were your lawmakers on?
… state’s hospital lobby. Big Hospital perhaps became the state’s most powerful special interest after the 2013 Legislature voted to accept the Obamacare Medicaid expansion. That move brought approximately $4 billion in annual “free” federal dollars that now flow to Michigan hospitals.
Senate Bill 335, Accommodate … more
State Ends Fiscal Year With Surplus After 12 House Republicans Defeat Tax Cut
Tax cut proponent: It shows Michigan government can afford to take less
… authorized by the Legislature in annual budget bills. That’s what happened in the fiscal year that ended on Sept. 30, 2017, due to lower-than-anticipated Medicaid spending, Bean told MIRS News.
The estimated $260 million in unspent revenue is more than the $195 million taxpayers would have been allowed to … more
How Right-to-Work and the End of the 'Dues Skim' Killed the SEIU in Michigan
Membership, revenue and political spending plummet
… allowing them to skim “dues” money directly from the Medicaid checks paid out to disabled residents. The vast … unionized were friends or relatives of these Medicaid recipients, but were improperly classified as … scheme, which was taking $6 million annually from Medicaid recipients. SEIU Healthcare-Michigan then tried … more
Update: D.C.’s Tax Reform Sausage Making May Still Work Out
Tax Foundation Calculates $2,500 gain per Michigan family
… a repeal of the controversial individual mandate that is part of the Affordable Care Act. It is estimated this change will lead to a decrease in Medicaid costs and Obamacare subsidies paid out for insurance and thus, a decrease in the federal deficit of $338 billion over 10 years.
This late move has … more
Half Of Able-Bodied Michigan Medicaid Expansion Enrollees Don’t Work
More than 600,000 enrolled, while total state unemployment down to just 218,000
… voted to accept the Obamacare Medicaid expansion in 2013, it was … poverty level would enroll in Medicaid. The actual number turned … people in the able-bodied Medicaid expansion population do not … the number of able-bodied Medicaid expansion clients who are … 4,641,000.
Traditionally, Medicaid has provided health care … more
New Analysis: Auto Insurance Costs Out of Control
Costs on the rise, will get worse if nothing is done
… and procedures. Similar types of fee schedules are used for Michigan’s workers’ compensation program and government-run insurance programs, such as Medicaid and Medicare. The bill would also allow drivers to choose a policy that limits their total benefits, resulting in a reduced-priced premium.
Opponents … more
Michigan Auto Insurance Reform Would Mandate Nation’s Richest Injury Coverage
Even if bill becomes law, the state would still be highest in the country for personal injury protection
… he says, costs will be shifted to the taxpayers through the state-run Medicaid system. He compared the proposal to “the Great Train Robbery.” Patterson … called for in the proposal could result in $150 million in extra annual Medicaid costs in 10 years, according to an analysis by the House Fiscal Agency. … more
Auto Insurance Reforms Worth Supporting
Bill isn’t perfect, but it’s a significant move in the right direction
… proposed fee schedule also melt away in the proper context. Every other government-mandated or government-run insurance scheme use fee schedules: Medicaid, Medicare, workers’ compensation and others. The proposed fee schedule is even largely based on an existing one: Most charges would be based on 125 … more
Did You Know? Post-Water Crisis, Fed and State Money Pours Into Flint
$347 million so far — nearly five times the city’s annual budget — delivered for infrastructure and more
… bottled water to residences, running social welfare programs, administering food and nutrition programs and more.
Some of the money has been spent on Medicaid coverage for Flint residents, outreach to non-English speaking residents, child care subsidies, support for food banks and grocery market feasibility … more
Tax Feeders Declare a Truce at the Trough
… we don’t see that. School superintendents don’t complain about business subsidies, mayors don’t criticize the cash paid to state universities, and Medicaid advocates don’t denounce state-paid agriculture marketing. The people who receive government money in one area simply don’t complain about other … more
Michigan Medicaid Patient Can't Find Care, So She Pays For Innovative Alternative
Direct Primary Care: 'You pay a flat fee ... and it's amazing'
When Michigan expanded Medicaid in 2013, one person who was … this state's version of the Medicaid expansion component of the … doctors included under a state Medicaid managed care contract in … any insurance, let alone Medicaid.
She thought there was no … of lawmakers, not just for Medicaid, which costs taxpayers billions, … more
Give Michigan Drivers Relief from High Auto Insurance Premiums
… treatment possible. What’s worse: While private insurance, Medicare and Medicaid have fee schedules that limit what medical providers can charge, there … auto insurers significantly more than they charge medical insurers or Medicaid and Medicare for exactly the same service.
The generous benefits available … more
Time for Labor Unions to Collect their Own Dues
The on-going SEIU dues skim must end
… receives a modest monthly Medicaid stipend to care for her disabled … estimated $200 million in Medicaid funds from more than 500,000 … skimmed a portion of the Medicaid reimbursement for its own … Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services within the Department … appropriations rider that prohibits Medicaid funds from being skimmed … more
Where did the Money from Higher Transportation Taxes Go?
A bigger budget means more money for programs beyond road repair
… be higher spending on schools and Medicaid, not road repairs.
The 7.3-cent-per-gallon … for roads is now mostly paying for Medicaid and public schools.
Specifically, … and the state agency that manages Medicaid is getting $132.6 million more. … was to spend more on schools and Medicaid. Taxpayers should pay closer attention … more
The Hypocrisy of 'Public' Education Rhetoric
What’s being protected here: The Constitution or union dues?
… education. These children often already benefit from health care vouchers (Medicaid) and food vouchers (Bridge Card, SNAP and WIC) that can be used at private … expressed concern with educational voucher programs broadly support both Medicaid expansion and federal food aid expansion, without constitutional concerns … more
Where the Money from Higher Transportation Taxes Goes
A bigger budget means more money for programs beyond road repair
… be higher spending on schools and Medicaid, not road repairs.
The 7.3-cent-per-gallon … for roads is now mostly paying for Medicaid and public schools.
Specifically, … and the state agency that manages Medicaid is getting $132.6 million more. … was to spend more on schools and Medicaid. Taxpayers should pay closer attention … more
Obamacare in Michigan: 32 Percent More Than Projected Take Medicaid Expansion
State’s free ride about to end on free coverage for able-bodied adults
… adoption of the Obamacare Medicaid expansion could cost state … Agency, Michigan’s share of the Medicaid expansion costs are projected … Projections,” says that Michigan’s Medicaid enrollment spike is part … Michigan) that expanded their Medicaid programs, the data shows … encourages states to expand Medicaid coverage to able-bodied a … more
State Health Policy Toolkit
10 reforms state lawmakers can implement now
… is repealed.
3. Verifying Medicaid Eligibility
Problem: The number of Medicaid enrollees is skyrocketing, … other things, cross-matches Medicaid enrollees against other welfare … eligibility.
4. Unwind the Medicaid Expansion
Problem: This … programs at the same rate. The Medicaid expansion did not increase … more
The Most Important State Election This November: Michigan's Next House Speaker
Three representatives face off for the top spot
… (VerHeulen “yes” with Greimel and Leonard “no”), accepting the Obamacare Medicaid expansion (VerHeulen and Leonard "no" with Greimel "yes"), and a few votes … because “doing so would push more Michiganders onto government programs like Medicaid and Medicare.”
VerHeulen defended his vote on the internet sales tax, … more
Hopeful Medicaid 'Direct Primary Care' Pilot Embraced by Senate, Gutted by House
Special interests prefer status quo
Rising costs in Medicaid, Michigan's medical welfare program, … more people to sign up for Medicaid — encouraged by President … calls for bringing it to Medicaid on a trial basis. Direct … receiving benefits from Michigan Medicaid are enrolled in what amounts … 1980s and 1990s exist and Medicaid patients have no say in any … more
Three Reforms to Bring Down Michigan Health Care Costs
Panel explains how special interest protectionism hurts patients and economy
… working to open the door wider with a new bill that would permit a direct primary care option to be included in the state’s medical welfare system (Medicaid). And federal legislation is being considered that would allow it for Medicare services.
Get rid of CON
Finally, the panel addressed certificate … more
Michigan Budget on Course for $7 Billion Rise Under Republicans
From $47.6 billion in 2011 to $55 billion
… $47.6 billion to $55 billion. Much of this 16 percent increase will have been due to more federal money flowing into the state under the Obamacare Medicaid expansion.
When federal dollars are excluded, state spending from state sources will have increased from $27.9 billion to $32.3 billion, a rise … more
How to Ease the Coming Physician Shortage
Changing licensing restrictions and expanding services would help
… growing demand, there has not been a corresponding rise in residency positions.
Taxpayers pay for most residency positions through their Medicare and Medicaid dollars, but in 1997, Congress froze the number it funds at 100,000. The Association of American Medical Colleges has lobbied Congress to fund 15,000 … more
It's Time for Scope of Practice Reform
Current laws increase health care costs and limit access
… restrictions on nurse practitioners and physician assistants raise health care costs. Expanding the scope of their practices reduces the cost of Medicaid outpatient claims by 11 percent, and improves patients’ access to health care with little effect on quality.
Access to affordable care will improve … more
Legislation Would Prevent State From Advertising to Get More People on Medicaid
Program expanded 30 percent beyond projections
… Committee for more than four months.
“Healthy Michigan,” is the title the administration of Gov. Rick Snyder gave to its adoption of the Obamacare Medicaid expansion. During the expansion debate in 2013, it was estimated that somewhat more than 400,000 people in Michigan would eventually enroll in the … more
Governor’s Budget Pays for Medicaid Expansion with a Gas Tax
Michigan's revenue growth is set to continue
… by a tax hike for roads to pay for the state’s Medicaid expansion.
Normally, roads are paid by vehicle … new home in the executive budget: the state’s Medicaid program.
The state is required to pick up some … of its decision to let more people sign up for Medicaid, part of a deal made under Obamacare. The state … more
Legislature Hoping for Improbable Federal Rescue of Medicaid Expansion
Without waiver, it's back to the drawing board
The Obamacare Medicaid expansion approved by the Michigan Legislature … Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services grants Michigan … of HMO-like managed care Medicaid coverage provided by hospitals … that Michigan accept the Medicaid expansion, he relied on projections … legislators accepted the Medicaid expansion after a bitter … more
Beware Claims of State Budget Cuts
… corporate welfare deals made in the past has come due and will continue to cost hundreds of millions. Health care costs keep on increasing, making Medicaid and prisons more expensive. And of course, the roads need more work.
State policymakers recognized these trends, devoting a portion of income tax … more
Beware Claims of State Budget Cuts
Revenues are increasing
… corporate welfare deals made in the past has come due and will continue to cost hundreds of millions. Health care costs keep on increasing, making Medicaid and prison more expensive. And of course, the roads need more work.
The state government should also re-examine its expenditures. The state is still … more
Bill Would Ban Advertising to Get More People on Medicaid
State Senator: This 'just encourages more people to become dependent on government'
… adoption of the Obamacare Medicaid expansion.
The current state … million annually to promote the Medicaid expansion to potential enrollees. … Legislature to accept the Medicaid expansion, after the U.S. … loosen eligibility rules on Medicaid. That summer, amid rancor … funding. In 2013, the state Medicaid agency estimated that the … more
Michigan’s Obamacare Medicaid Expansion
Incentives gone awry
… Legislature passed a bill expanding Medicaid, a core component of the … managed care services under Medicaid to offer “healthy behavior” … or copay requirements on Medicaid beneficiaries, so Michigan … $50 Wal-Mart gift cards for Medicaid clients who, in essence, … hospitals that provide almost all Medicaid services in Michigan. While … more
Politicians Misrepresent Road Funding Bills to Promote Tax Hike
Slower spending growth is not a 'cut'
… fewer state employees. State economic growth has meant fewer people applying for government assistance, though the Obamacare-driven expansion of Medicaid will mean some increased spending. And while government pension costs are still high due to current and past underfunding, this expense has tapered … more
SEIU Affiliate’s Revenue Cut in Half After 'Dues Skim' Ended
SEIU Healthcare Michigan dues collection went from $11.3 million to $5.4 million
… grab a share of the benefit checks of Michigan residents enrolled in the Medicaid Home Help program, which lets elderly and disabled individuals receive … caregivers, and on that basis have union dues and fees “skimmed” from the Medicaid checks of the program's homebound beneficiaries. The unseemliness was … more
Labor Union Caught in Dues Skim Fails to File Annual Report with Federal Government
SEIU Healthcare Michigan reported losing 80 percent of its members after dues skim ended
… forced unionization of home-based caregivers serving patients collecting Medicaid benefits. It lasted from 2006 to early 2013.
Under the forced unionization, money was deducted from the Medicaid checks of home care patients as union dues and fees for the caregivers, … more
Obamacare Exchange: Michigan Dodged a Bullet
… hadn’t yet got in the habit of violating the “Hastert rule” and rolling the caucus majority by passing bills with Democratic votes, which is how Medicaid expansion became law the following year.)
There are no “wooden stakes” in Lansing though — bad policy proposals never die. If the U.S. Supreme Court … more
As Obamacare is Implemented, Part-Time Jobs at All Time High
U.S. has had a record 27 million people working 35 or fewer hours a week the past five years
… toward a greater reliance on part-time work, which is probably not a good thing for most workers.”
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See also:
Report: Michigan's Obamacare Medicaid Expansion Exceeds Projections by 22 Percent
Obamacare's Michigan Tale: Small Drop in Uninsured While Families Pay More
Michigan Paid 'Stupidity … more
Michigan’s Obamacare Medicaid Expansion Exceeds Projections by 22 Percent
Cost may be much more expensive than originally assumed
… enrollments under the Obamacare Medicaid expansion. Here’s what the authors … legislature to adopt his Obamacare Medicaid expansion plan, he too sold it on … fact that Michigan did not expand Medicaid eligibility until April, nearly 508,000 … Michigan, many states accepted the Medicaid expansion because lawmakers were … more
What the New Legislature Should Stand For — And What It Should Not
… around, the Legislature strayed from its initial limited-government approach. It expanded a poorly performing welfare program by passing the Obamacare Medicaid expansion. Although the Legislature finally engaged Detroit’s fiscal problems rather than “kick the can down the road,” taxpayers were forced to … more
Obamacare's Michigan Tale: Small Drop in Uninsured While Families Pay More
Four things about Obamacare in Michigan
… health care coverage; it has always been a massive Medicaid expansion scheme. In Michigan, federal figures show 303,000 residents were added to Medicaid rolls between the third quarter of 2013 and the … coverage, another was thrown into an already-strained Medicaid program.
If you like your health insurance, you … more
What the New Legislature Should Stand For – and What It Should Not
A time for choosing in Michigan
… legislative actions fell short of the limited government approach. The Legislature expanded a poorly performing welfare program by passing the Obamacare Medicaid expansion. The good news was, for the first time in a generation a governor and Legislature seriously engaged the problem of Detroit's finances rather … more
CapCon Interview with Founding Editor Ken Braun and Mackinac Center President Joseph G. Lehman
On its fifth year anniversary, a history lesson
… back substantially.
I think it’s also fair to say that we wouldn’t have ended the SEIU’s unconscionable skimming of so-called dues dollars from Medicaid recipients without CapCon reporter Jack Spencer’s work. That union quietly stole $6 million a year from poor, sick people. Democrats and Republicans … more
State Revenue Increasing by $640 Million
Michigan's projected deficit is because of overspending
… health and human services and education.
“I think these two categories continue to put pressure on the budget over time,” he said.
Douglas said Medicaid and the increasing costs of paying for school employees’ pensions will continue to be serious issues for the budget.
~~~~~
See also:
Despite GOP … more
Doctors Accepting More Medicaid Patients – for Now
… Michigan doctors accepting Medicaid patients, leaving the impression that Medicaid expansion in Michigan is … says: The vast majority of Medicaid benefits in Michigan are … who is willing to accept Medicaid’s below-market payment. Under … federal government increased Medicaid primary care reimbursements … more
Two Wins for Freedom from Union Coercion in 2014
The end of the dues skim and the busting of the 'August Window'
… home-based caregivers into the Service Employees International Union. Because of this forced unionization, millions of dollars in “dues” extracted from Medicaid payments to caregivers were being sent to the union.
The political and legal battle over the dues skim included legislative efforts in 2011 to defund … more
'Hastert Rule' May Impact Michigan House GOP Leadership Race
… Hastert rule has become an issue is because we’ve seen things pass, like Medicaid expansion — and there were a few other times that the caucus basically got run over.”
Medicaid expansion passed twice in the House with slightly less than a majority … more
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