The HUSKY Program Budget in Context: An Analysis of the Governor’s Proposed FY 08 Budget

The Governor’s proposed FY 08 budget does not invest enough in proven strategies to enroll new families in the HUSKY program and retain coverage for families already enrolled. She has proposed a premium assistance initiative that is not likely to help many low- and moderate-income families or provide significant cost savings for the state. The experience of other states suggests that the administrative costs of such a program, and the expenses of subsidizing employer-sponsored health plans will be substantial. The Governor has also proposed narrowing the definition of “medically necessary services,” raising concerns about limiting access to needed care for vulnerable children and adults on HUSKY A and fee-for-service Medicaid.