Robach Announces Cost Savings For Monroe County In 2005-06 Budget

Monroe County will save approximately $8.6 million in 2006 as a result of a cap on County Medicaid and the Family Health Plus Program at 2005 levels. The cap is a part of the budget recently agreed to by both the Senate and Assembly.

“The Senate and Governor have made giving counties relief from mandated expenses a priority this year,” said Senator Robach. “Capping county expenses at 2005 levels will help counties keep property tax increases in check as they begin preparations of their 2006 budget.”

The cap on expenses was proposed by the Governor in his budget and was included in the budget passed by the Senate earlier this month. The Assembly agreed to the cap during last weeks budget negotiations.

New York is one of the few states in the nation to require a local contribution for the cost of the Medicaid program. County officials have blamed growing Medicaid expenses for recent tax increases or cuts to other county programs.