Senator Gray discusses long-term care funding uncertainties with Rockingham County officials

During the recent Board of Commissioners meeting held on May 1, 2025, in Rockingham County, New Hampshire, significant discussions centered around long-term care funding and legislative negotiations. The meeting highlighted the county's ongoing efforts to address financial challenges related to long-term care services, particularly in light of House Bill 2.

A key point of discussion was the interaction with Senator Gray regarding the proposed cap on funding for long-term care. The county is advocating for a 2% cap, while the current proposal stands at 3%. However, Senator Gray expressed uncertainty about his ability to support this request, indicating a lack of commitment to the proposed changes. This uncertainty raises concerns about the future of funding for essential long-term care services in the county.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the repayment structure for the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) credits. Originally, a $22 million repayment was scheduled over two years, but this has been extended to four years under House Bill 2. The commissioners emphasized the importance of clarifying these financial arrangements, especially as the legislative session approaches its conclusion. The potential for significant changes to funding bills during committee conferences adds urgency to these discussions.

The commissioners plan to engage in further discussions at an upcoming legislative meeting to ensure a unified stance among the ten counties on long-term care funding. This collaborative approach aims to solidify their position as they navigate the complexities of the legislative process.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the critical nature of long-term care funding discussions in Rockingham County. As the legislative session progresses, the outcomes of these negotiations will have lasting implications for the county's ability to provide essential services to its residents. The commissioners' proactive stance reflects their commitment to addressing these challenges head-on, ensuring that the needs of the community remain a priority.