Senate OKs boost in Medicaid reimbursements

WASHINGTON — Congress took another step Wednesday toward helping local governments pay growing Medicaid bills, with Senate passage of a bill that boosts reimbursements for the program.

Sen. Charles E. Schumer, D-N.Y., who championed a provision to send money directly to county governments, praised the bill's passage and said it would help prevent local tax increases. It would extend about $10 million in Medicaid reimbursements to north country governments, his office reported, and about $2 billion statewide.

"Unemployment is already too high and unless we get fiscal aid directly to our beleaguered county governments during this downturn, they will be forced to raise property taxes, lay off vital workers and make thing worse, instead of better," Mr. Schumer said in a press release.

The bill awaits approval in the House, where consideration has not been scheduled. It is one of several bills in both chambers aimed at job creation and economic recovery.

Unlike some of the so-called jobs bills, Wednesday's measure cleared the Senate with more than enough Republican votes to prevent a filibuster. The final tally was 62-36, with two senators not voting.

The bill extends for six months increased Medicaid reimbursements that were initially part of the economic stimulus package.