Governor Ritter announced over $300 million in budget cuts this week. We applaud his efforts in trying to reduce the impact on rural healthcare and safety net services, but these cuts will impact our rural communities, nonetheless. These budget cuts will begin being implemented on September 1st.

There will be a 1.5% reduction in Medicaid Reimbursement Rates and $15 million cut from Amendment 35 funds. The breakdown is as follows:
$7 million from the Tobacco Education Program Fund
$7 million from the Prevention, Early Detection, and Treatment Fund
$1 million from the Health Disparities Grant Program Fund

The Breast and Cervical Screening Program and the Quitline were spared any cuts.

For a breakdown of the Governor’s cuts, please click HERE.

More detailed information will be posted here in the upcoming days.