Senator Gallivan Calls for Federal Medical Assistance Funding to Go to County Governments

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan (R-C-I, Elma) is calling on Governor Cuomo to ensure more than $1-billion in increased funding for the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) program be provided to county governments throughout New York State.  Under the Federal Family First Coronavirus Response Act, FMAP funding has been increased by 6.2 percent, retroactive to January 1, 2020.  The total increased funding for New York State is $1.45 billion.

"Like all levels of government, our counties are struggling with higher costs associated with their response to COVID-19," Senator Gallivan said.  "These federal dollars should be used to immediately provide relief to counties facing financial challenges caused by the pandemic and a sharp decline in revenue due to the shutdown of much of our economy."

In a letter to the governor, Senator Gallivan called for the increased federal funds to be used to reduce weekly Medicaid payments made by counties.  He also urged the administration to provide a timeline on the release of enhanced federal Medicaid matching funds related to the Affordable Care Act "reconciliation funds" that have been withheld for the past three years.

Senator Gallivan's letter, which was prompted by a request from the Livingston County Board of Supervisors, has been signed by 17 other members of the Senate's Minority Conference.

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