CHAPTER 612

H.P. 1270 - L.D. 1748

An Act To Amend the Rule-making Authority of the Department

of Human Services to Ensure Cost-effective Operation of

State Medical Services Programs and Compliance with Federal

Requirements

Emergency preamble. Whereas, Acts of the Legislature do not become effective until 90 days after adjournment unless enacted as emergencies; and

Whereas, the State of Maine needs to ensure that all legislatively mandated deappropriations are implemented to the fullest extent possible and that all possible revenue sources are used to the maximum extent possible; and

Whereas, if such actions are not taken it may be necessary to implement new service or reimbursement reductions; and

Whereas, the State must comply with federal mandates in the operation of various programs in which the Federal Government provides matching funds, including Medicaid, TANF and food stamps; and

Whereas, the State may not have an opportunity to adopt rules complying with federal requirements until after those requirements are in effect; and

Whereas, the State must conform its Medicaid rules to the state plan filed with the Federal Government; and

Whereas, in the judgment of the Legislature, these facts create an emergency within the meaning of the Constitution of