Lawmakers voice concerns over potential cuts to rural hospitals in budget bill
Share this @internewscast.com

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) — Lawmakers from both the Democratic and Republican parties express concerns over potential cuts to rural hospitals, which complicate President Donald Trump’s extensive budget proposal.

The Senate version of the package includes a Medicaid cut that would reduce what’s known as the provider tax for states.

“In my state, half of the hospitals serve rural areas,” commented U.S. Sen. Josh Hawley, (R-Mo.). “I grew up in a community of 4,000 residents. I’ve experienced this firsthand. It’s a significant issue.”

“Threatening at least nine at-risk rural hospitals across the state,” said U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly, (D-Ill.).

Kelly said the proposed cuts couldn’t come at a worse time for Illinois and the rest of the country.

“Right now, our country is in the middle of a maternal mortality crisis, and Medicaid covers half of births nationwide,” she said.

A report from the Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform found one-third of all rural hospitals face closures.

“It’s just a proposal so it’s too early to talk about what is going to happen and what’s not,” said U.S. Sen. Markwayne Mullin, (R-Okla.).

Mullin noted there is still an opportunity to discuss terms, while Hawley proposed a compromise: adapting the House’s version of the bill, which halts the tax instead of cutting it.

“I would think that would be easy to do,” Hawley said. “That’s what probably our leadership should have done.”

The White House wouldn’t say whether the president would sign a bill with the cuts.

“I won’t comment on that specific provision,” said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. “Look, the bill hasn’t been sent to the president’s desk yet. There’s more room for change.”

However, President Trump still wants the legislation passed by July 4, and Senate staffers are working through the weekend to try to meet that deadline.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Super Typhoon Ragasa triggers rescue operations in the Philippines

IE 11 is not compatible. For the best experience, please access our…

New Murals Transform Downtown Orlando with Federal Grant Support

ORLANDO, Fla. – Over the past week, artists have been busy painting…

Schedule: Major Storms to Make a Comeback in Central Florida

Patchy fog possible for morning commute Future radar ORLANDO, Fla. – The…

Discovery of Body in Water Beneath SR-520 Bridge on Merritt Island

MERRITT ISLAND, Fla. – Authorities found a man’s body on Monday in…

During Rare China Visit, U.S. Legislators Call for Improved Communication Amid Rising Tensions

BEIJING — To resolve their various disagreements, Washington and Beijing need to…

Georgia Prisoner Receives Sentence for Constructing and Sending Explosive Devices

An inmate from the Georgia Department of Corrections has faced sentencing after…

Growing Number of Americans Choose RV Living Amid Increasing Home Ownership Costs

IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site…

Trump Suggests Unproven Connection Between Acetaminophen Use During Pregnancy and Autism

IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site…

Trump Labels Climate Change ‘a Con Job’

IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site…

Bill Nye Receives Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame

Internet Explorer 11 is not supported. For the best experience, please use…

Renowned Southwest Virginia Coach Phil Robbins Passes Away at Age 81

SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA, Va. (WJHL) — The region mourns the loss of one…

Spirit Airlines Set to Temporarily Lay Off 1,800 Flight Attendants

(NewsNation) — Spirit Airlines plans to furlough 1,800 flight attendants before the…