AUGUSTA (AP) — Maine Democratic lawmakers say they’re “incredibly concerned” about a $100 million shortfall in the state’s Medicaid program, also known as MaineCare.
State Health and Human Services Commissioner Mary Mayhew briefed the Legislature’s Appropriations Committee on Thursday on the shortfall, which affects the present fiscal year.
Mayhew says that the cost overrun is due to increased utilization of the program and not enrollment growth.
Rep. Peggy Rotundo of Lewiston, the lead House Democrat on the Appropriations Committee, says her party is “incredibly concerned” and looks forward to seeing an in-depth analysis from Gov. Paul LePage’s administration.
The news comes as the state also faces a $35 million revenue shortfall for the current budget. LePage could order spending curtailments to address that shortfall.
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