With the government funding deadline (Jan. 19) fast approaching and a shutdown looming, Republican House leaders on Tuesday night appeared to reach consensus on the components for another short-term spending continuing resolution (CR).
The plan would fund the government through Feb. 16 and among other provisions includes delays in a number of Affordable Care Act (ACA) taxes, including a two-year delay in the Cadillac tax and medical device tax and a one-year delay for the health insurance tax. It also includes funding for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) for six years.
However, House leaders need to work to garner additional support ahead of a likely vote on Thursday. Conservatives are threatening to oppose the measure leaving a tenuous situation that also faces challenges in the Senate. The next 24 hours will be critical and the details of the CR may change to ensure there are enough votes.
We remain focused on the list of health care issues that are “held-up” as a result of the current funding debate including: Eliminating reductions in 340B payments, delaying cuts to Medicaid disproportionate share hospital (DSH) payments for two years; extending important Medicare programs for rural hospitals; and preventing hospice cuts.
