Velazquez on Puerto Rico Funding in Omnibus Bill

Washington, DC – Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) issued the following statement regarding funding in the Fiscal Year 2017 Omnibus Appropriations Act to bolster Puerto Rico's Medicaid program:

"Puerto Rico is facing a healthcare crisis of historic proportions that is of Washington's making. Because Puerto Rico receives a lower reimbursement rate than the states, the island's healthcare system is rapidly running out of money.

"The $295 million included in this package is a positive step, but only that – a down payment. Secretary Price has acknowledged that it will require $900 million to truly address the Medicaid shortage facing Puerto Rico. In coming months, we must press for additional funds to make up this shortfall.

"Moreover, it is important that the resources contained in this bill go specifically to Puerto Rico's Medicaid shortfall and not be diverted to other uses. The $295 million this bill appropriates will go to Medicaid – the question is where the funds that are freed up by the $295 million will go. If the Governor and Control Board decide to give that to General Obligation creditors then that is on them – and we will hold them accountable for that decision. But our intention is to help the people of Puerto Rico – not bondholders.

"I want to thank Leader Pelosi and Leader Schumer for helping secure these funds. This is a positive, albeit limited, step. Going forward, I will work to see sufficient funds secured to make up this shortfall. It is my hope that Speaker Ryan can be helpful in this endeavor. As he has previously acknowledged, Puerto Ricans are our fellow citizens. They pay taxes and fight in our wars. Congress cannot turn our back on them."

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