Dear Editor:
I am writing to voice my strong opposition to cutting more than $300 million in Medicaid funding in order to help close a deficit. While I understand the need to be fiscally conservative at this economic juncture, Medicaid funding is far too valuable to slash.
The proposed income levels are not practical in our region and will disqualify a vast number of Medicaid recipients from receiving much needed medical care. Furthermore, medical costs will be transferred to emergency rooms and charity care, which is paid for by us. Health threats will continue to exist, but only reduced resources will be available to combat those threats. We must protect populations that are susceptible to health risks, such as seniors and children.
As we recover from these dire financial times, we must examine ways to support and assist the working poor of our communities. I have always been a champion of the poor and working class and I look forward to continuing that fight.
As New Jersey’s budget process advances, I look forward to working to see that measures are in place to preserve funding for Medicaid.
Sincerely,
Brian P. Stack
State Senator