Word that there’s a deal on the economic recovery package between the House and Senate.
From CQ: Negotiators also split the difference on a formula for allocating a Medicaid funding increase to states. Sixty-five percent of the funding would be doled out on an across-the-board, flate rate basis to each state, while 35 percent would be distributed based on increases in unemployment, according to House Commerce Committee Chairman Henry A. Waxman , D-Calif. The House had used a 50-50 formula, while the Senate preferred an 80-20 split.
From other sources: On COBRA, there appears to be $21.4 billion, for eligible workers to help with 60% of the premium for COBRA for 9 months. Income eligibility would be capped at $125,000 (single) and $250,000 (couple). Most disappointing for health advocates, it does not look like the temporary Medicaid expansion is included.
More to come.