Congressional Leaders Still Seeking Votes on Extenders - May 26, 2010

H.R. 4213, a catch all “extenders bill” which contains several important provisions for safety net hospitals continues to struggle on Capitol Hill. Republicans and fiscally-conservative Democrats are wary of the legislation due to its overall cost – approximately $200 billion, of which approximately $140 billion is not offset. The bill contains a top NAPH priority – a six-month extension of enhanced federal Medicaid funding for states (FMAP), through June 2011 – and a 3 ½ year “doc fix.” The bill also includes a limited extension of 340B drug discounts to the inpatient setting of some safety net hospitals. The 340B discounts would only be for drugs administered to uninsured patients and those whose insurance does not cover the cost of the drug. With congressional leaders still trying to whip votes, the House has continued to delay consideration on the floor – originally scheduled for last week, the House will act no sooner than today, May 26. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) has said he wants to pass the bill before Congress recesses next week for Memorial Day, but Senate consideration this week is looking less likely with each passing day.