Apr 14 2008
House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health Passes Bill to Delay Harmful Medicaid Regulations
Also this week, the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health passed a slightly revised version of H.R. 5613, legislation recently introduced which would place a moratorium until March 2009 on seven Medicaid regulations issued by the Department of Health and Human Services. BIAA has strongly endorsed this legislation and submitted an official letter of endorsement to the bill’s sponsors, Rep. Dingell (D-MI) and Rep. Murphy (R-PA), this week.
The legislation, which was originally introduced by Representatives John D. Dingell (D-MI) and Tim Murphy (R-PA) on March 13, 2008, would delay the implementation of seven harmful Medicaid regulations through March 2009, including several rules which would be especially deleterious to individuals with traumatic brain injury.
One of these rules would limit rehabilitation services for Medicaid beneficiaries, severely curtailing the ability of people with disabilities – including TBI – to receive rehabilitation services now covered under Medicaid. Access to these rehabilitative services is essential, as in many cases, these services play a vital role in allowing people with TBI to live independently in the community.
A copy of BIAA’s letter endorsing H.R. 5613 can be obtained by visiting BIAA’s website at the following address: http://www.biausa.org/policyissues.htm.
