What's going on with Colorado's budget?
A background of TABOR (and other fiscal issues) as well as predictions for what is to happen to the state budget with the implications of TABOR, Arvescough-Bird, Gallagher Amendment, etc. This was a joint research project sponsored by the Colorado Fiscal Policy Institute, The Bell Policy Center, and the Colorado Children’s Campaign and is very informative for those interested in learning more about Colorado’s fiscal issues. Colorado’s fiscal issues are important for any voter, especially those with MS, to learn about since the state budget affects all areas, especially health care.
Colorado Senate Bill 228
States are receiving federal funding from the stimulus package and specifically, Colorado could use this money for all the different sectors: healthcare, education, transportation. Currently, Colorado legislators are required to distribute the money according to a formula rather than on an as-needed basis. With this bill, the restriction would be removed and healthcare would get the financial support it needs. If this restriction is not removed, the healthcare sector will face sharp budget cuts, especially in Medicaid.
Colorado House Bill 1293
This bill would draw down more federal funding for the state Medicaid program. This would increase eligibility for Medicaid, increase hospital reimbursements for Medicaid, and would increase Medicaid revenue for Colorado. Some of those with chronic diseases require extensive hospitalization and some of those with MS will become eligible for Medicaid.
Colorado Senate Bill 126
For the past three years the Colorado Chapter was part of the Tax Check Off, which permits a tax payer to designate all or a part of their refund to a charity. Each year we have gotten over $100,000, and this contribution is critical in funding our financial assistance program. Every three years we are required to renew and maintain a minimum contribution of $75,000.
Colorado House Bill 1103
This bill will allow the department of healthcare policy to presume a person is eligible for long term care until proven otherwise.
Colorado House Bill 1059
Many people in Colorado who have MS participate in clinical trials. This bill concerns the continuation of health care coverage while participating in a clinical trial.