CONCORD — While some Republican legislative leaders held out hope a compromise could be reached, Gov. Chris Sununu poured cold water on the idea he would change his proposal to cut Medicaid tax assistance to the state’s acute care hospitals by $35 million a year. Sununu said his final offer in legislation ( HB 1593 ) was to give hospitals 91% of what it pays the state under a Medicaid tax on hospital revenues, but the hospital lobby refused to accept it.
In response, Sununu directed Health and Human Services Commissioner Lori Weaver to submit to the Biden administration a plan amendment that gives the hospitals an 80% guarantee with the remaining 20% to go to other Medicaid providers such as mental health centers, community health care centers and addiction recovery programs. “I was very clear if you don’t’ agree to the 91%, that’s it,” Sununu said. “I told them before they (legislative negotiators) took the final vote.
They chose 80%. OK, better for everybody.” New Hampshire Hospital Association (NHHA) President and CEO Steve Ahnen said his members were “extremely disappointed” legislative talks fell apart last month, but he remains hopeful they could be revived.
“We’re extremely disappointed that an agreement could not be reached. Hospitals have been and continue to be willing to find reasonable solutions in the best interest of the state, the Medicaid program, patients and hospitals,” Ahnen said. Sununu’s plan will “drive up costs for patien.
