May 22, 2013
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) -- Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley says he will veto the state's General Fund budget if lawmakers do not find an additional $200 million for Medicaid.
Bentley and State Health Officer Don Williamson said at a news conference Tuesday that there would be dire effects if the budget for non-education state services is adopted as it passed the House, with only $400 million for Medicaid. Williamson said at least $602 million is needed to fund the program.
Williamson said without proper funding, the state might lose federal funds for Medicaid. He said programs like dialysis and medicine for adults might be eliminated and hospitals and other facilities might not be able to operate.
Bentley said lawmakers should transfer $200 million from an education savings account to the General Fund.
