Concord, NH – Today, Governor Sununu, Senate President Chuck Morse, House Speaker Gene Chandler, and other legislative leaders announced a tentative seven year agreement with New Hampshire’s hospitals related to disproportionate share hospital payments. The terms of the agreement would require additional appropriations of approximately $23.4 million in State funds in fiscal year 2018 and $22.2 million in State funds in fiscal year 2019, which represents approximately $28 million in savings from previous estimates.
“While we still have more work to do to before it is final, I am pleased that we were able to come together and take the next step toward a long term agreement,” said Governor Chris Sununu. “Our ultimate objective has always been to provide fiscal certainty and stability to both the State and the hospitals, and today we are one step closer to achieving that goal.”
“The amendment approved by the Senate today is a result of the ongoing leadership of Governor Sununu and the willingness of the hospitals to come together in finding a solution that works for everyone regarding the uncompensated care and disproportionate share hospital payments issue,” said Senate President Chuck Morse. “This legislation lays the groundwork for creating the financial certainty hospitals need in addition to being a good deal for our state by saving taxpayer dollars in the long run. We look forward to finalizing the long-term plan in the coming days that supports both the hospitals and the State of New Hampshire.”
“This looks like the right solution for the situation and I’m happy that all sides were able to come this agreement and move forward,” said Speaker Gene Chandler. “The State’s relationship with our hospitals is important and can have serious implications for the viability of hospitals and the State budget. I believe this agreement is key to managing the long term stability for both sides.”
Legislation to implement the terms of the agreement was introduced in the Senate this afternoon, with further work expected over the next few weeks. In addition to legislation, the deal will also require a revision to the 2014 MET Settlement Agreement, an amendment to the State’s Medicaid Plan, and other steps, all of which will need to be completed before any agreement becomes final.