Kansas Cuts $56 Million From Medicaid To Help Close Budget Shortfall

Topeka (Kan.) Capital-Journal:
Gov. Sam Brownback Makes Cuts To Budgets Of Universities, Medicaid, State Agencies

The administration gave no hint that it would reconsider its tax policy, which many say has contributed to the state’s inability to meet revenue expectations. … The Medicaid provider rate cut spares community-based service providers and nearly 100 rural and critical access hospitals. Sean Gatewood, with the KanCare Advocates Network, expressed gratitude that community-based service providers had been spared but said acting like cuts will not have an impact is “not living in reality.” Senate Minority Leader Anthony Hensley, D-Topeka, slammed the reductions. He argued Brownback is shielding his tax policy while harming Medicaid recipients. (Shorman, 5/18)