37,000 letters go out today to recipients of four Medicaid programs that reads “Because of possible budget cuts, these programs may end as of July 1, 2018.” 20,000 of those recipients are nursing home residents who could be thrown out as a result. Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne says after multiple failed attempts to fund the programs, people need to start preparing for the worst.
Cut 4 (11) “be coming”
But many Republicans are balking at the release of those letters, saying they amount to a political stunt. Haughton Representative Dodie Horton, who voted for the House spending plan that included the Medicaid cuts, says the panic isn’t justified.
Cut 5 (08) “figure is”
Governor Edwards is in Lafayette today to tour a public-private hospital that has sent termination notices to employees because of state budget cuts.

Two bills that would make medical marijuana availbable to more diseases and disorders are close to final passage after receiving approval from the Senate. One bill would add intractable pain, PTSD and Parkinson’s to the already existing list diseases medical marijuana is eligible to treat, and the other would add autism patients. New Iberia Senator Fred Mills.
Cut 15 (07) “so critical”

A study for the Louisiana Chemical Association shows the industry is responsible for nearly 80-billion dollars in annual sales. But the industry is concerned about changes to a tax exemption program. Economist Doctor Loren Scott says I-TEP allows Lousiaina’s chemical industry compete with Texas…
cut 14 (09) “…sales tax system”