Legislative Bulletin: E-prescribing Legislation Awaits Governor's Approval

E-prescribing Legislation Awaits Governor’s Approval
The New York State Assembly passed legislation, yesterday that would extend the implementation date of the e-prescribing mandate (as part of the I-STOP law), for one year. The bill will now move to the Governor for his approval. If Gov. Cuomo signs the bill, the mandate will take effect March 27, 2016. Members are encouraged to send a letter to Gov. Cuomo, urging him to sign this bill into law so long term/post-acute care providers can have access to capital to improve their health information technology capacity.

Legislature Prepares for Budget Negotiations
The Senate and Assembly have both released their revenue reports with a consensus report expected on or before this Sun., March 1. The Senate’s Revenue Report, estimates that General Fund revenues are $180 million more than the Executive’s estimate. The Assembly’s Revenue Report estimates that All Funds are $345 million more than the Executive's forecast.

The Legislature is scheduled to take up one-house budget bills by Thurs., March 12, with Joint Budget Conference Committees convening immediately thereafter. A final budget is expected ahead of the April 1 deadline. With budget negotiations moving quickly, we must continue our advocacy effort to ensure our priorities are included in one-house budget bills, and ultimately, a final budget.

Advocacy Alert! Throughout the month of February, we have asked members to engage with their lawmakers through numerous letter writing campaigns on a number of budget priorities. Today, there is a new letter relating to the role of the advanced home health aide, which is also included in the Executive Budget proposal. Beginning next week, we will ask members to engage in additional advocacy opportunities, including Virtual Lobby Days. In the meantime, please email your legislators today on the following budget priorities:

If you have any questions about the budget process or the advocacy opportunities mentioned above, please don't hesitate to contact your government relations team at 518-867-8844.

NYSOFA Director Address Assembly Aging Committee
Corinda Crossdale, the director of the New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA), addressed the Assembly Aging Committee, yesterday on NYSOFAs efficiencies and improved outcomes. Ms. Crossdale also spoke about NYSOFA's Healthy Meal Plan, and the 17,000 caregivers that the agency supports. LeadingAge NY supports an increase in funding for caregiver respite services in this year’s budget.

Minimum Wage Increases for Tipped Workers
Earlier this week, changes were made to New York State regulations governing wages and tips of workers in the hospitality industry. Acting Commissioner of Labor, Mario J. Musolino, issued an Order responding to the Report and Recommendations of the 2014 Wage Board. Tipped workers will now receive $7.50 an hour; the new wage will go into effect at the end of the year.

According to a New York Times article, Gov. Cuomo appeared with labor leaders during the time of the industry's announcement, and repeated his own call to increase the statewide minimum wage for nontipped workers to $10.50 an hour, and also suggested that minimum wage in New York City should be higher at $11.50 an hour due to the cost of living. We are reporting on this issue due to the nationwide call for an increase in minimum wage for those working low-wage jobs, including individuals working in home care. We will keep members update on this State and nationwide issue.

Register Now for the 2015 LeadingAge NY PAC Golf Tournament!
The 2015 PAC Golf Tournament will be held on Mon., May 18 at Ballston Spa Country Club. Registration and sponsorship opportunities are now available online. Join us for breakfast and contests beginning at 10 a.m., followed by an 18-hole tournament and driving range and pro-clinic for those who just want to do a bit of practicing. We’ll meet at the 19th hole for a reception and prizes! Not a golfer? Not to worry, you can make your PAC contribution here.

Contact: Alyssa Lovelace, alovelace@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8844