The Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry commends members of the Senate for passing SB 748, legislation that plays an essential role in Missouri’s economic health by keeping the state’s hospitals open. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Lincoln Hough (R-Springfield), passed the Senate on Thursday by a vote of 31-2.
SB 748 renews the Federal Reimbursement Allowance program, or FRA. The FRA program is a critical funding mechanism for sustaining essential health care services across our state. For more than 30 years, Missouri hospitals, nursing homes and pharmacies have paid this provider tax in order to sustain Missouri’s Medicaid program, known as MO HealthNet. The public-private partnership with state government generates roughly $4 billion annually in matching federal funds.
SB 748 will extend the FRA program through 2029.
The Missouri Chamber is supportive of the legislation, which is crucial to both the state budget and the overall health of Missourians.
“At the end of the day, employees want to live and work in places where they have access to quality health care and hospitals,” said Kara Corches, vice president of governmental affairs for the Missouri Chamber. “We applaud Sen. Lincoln Hough for his leadership on this issue, and we urge the House to act swiftly in passing this legislation for the benefit of Missouri workers, employers and communities.”
SB 748 now goes to the House for consideration.
