Posted on 05/06/25
| News Source: FOX45
Annapolis, MD - May 6, 2025 - About one month after the end of the legislative session, leadership was back in the State House talking about the budget.
This time, however, it was about the impacts more federal cuts could have on Maryland’s bottom line and what’s next for a possible special session.
Senate President Bill Ferguson told reporters the latest legislative analysis indicated an additional $430 million in cuts were possible for the state, hitting housing and energy assistance programs, as well as drinking water efforts and others.
The state was bracing for more cuts, Sen. Ferguson said Tuesday, which is why he’s not too worried about covering the gaps with roughly $2 billion left for situations such as this. The additional cuts are included in President Donald Trump’s proposed budget, which has yet to be finalized, and Congress will get the final say.
However, changes to how states are expected to cover the costs of Medicaid is what Sen. Ferguson said could force a special session later this year.
“Because it will have such a disruptive impact on our healthcare system,” he said.
Legislative leaders have telegraphed a special session throughout the one that just ended and have pointed to changes in the cost-sharing formula for Medicaid as the reason. Sen. Ferguson maintains keeping people on their healthcare plans is an important tenant of the social safety net that Maryland provides, especially for vulnerable populations.
But, Republicans have been pushing for eligibility changes. Senate Minority Leader Steve Hershey has argued the state provides coverage for too many people who could afford to buy health insurance on the market.
“We need to focus on that a little more rather than trying to guess what’s going to happen from the federal government in terms of Medicaid,” Sen. Hershey said in late February.
When asked if he’s specifically talking about changing Medicaid eligibility requirements, Sen. Hershey said, “exactly, and that’s what we have to do.”
Prior to the end of session, a joint committee was formed to monitor the federal impacts to Maryland. Senate President Ferguson and Speaker Jones will co-chair the workgroup. Sen. Ferguson said meeting dates will be announced soon, though he said he didn’t want to have the committee meet with no purpose.
In addition to Del. Moon and Sen. Hershey, there are several other members, including: