Committee hears that SASH gap funding is not in FY27 budget; AHS exploring CMS rural health funding and Cathedral Square partnership

Summary

The committee was told the SASH program is level-funded for administrative costs but previous gap funding is not in the FY27 recommendation; agency staff said they are pursuing CMS rural health transformation funds and coordinating with Cathedral Square to sustain services and support housing transitions for people experiencing homelessness.

Lawmakers raised concerns about supportive-services funding for housing and SASH (Support And Services at Home) operations as the committee reviewed DAIL program pages.

Staff said the FY27 recommended budget level-funds administrative support for SASH but does not include the prior year’s gap funding. AHS staff said they are exploring whether CMS rural health transformation program funds can be used to fill the gap and that they are coordinating with Cathedral Square on possible solutions. Members emphasized SASH’s role as a bridge to housing and supportive services for people transitioning from homelessness and urged that workforce funding for outreach and case management be maintained.

Committee members also tied the SASH conversation to General Assistance (GA) housing and the need for supportive services inside housing units. Staff indicated they would follow up with additional detail on CMS conversations and potential contingency plans if the rural health approach cannot be used in all counties.

The session ended with committee leaders reminding members that budget teams will provide recommendations to the full appropriations committee and that further discussion of homelessness policy ideas was planned for later in the day.