Appropriations Committee is reviewing a $158-million deficiency in DSS budget

Brenda Sisco, acting secretary of the Office of Policy and Management and Paul Potamianos, executive budget officer in OPM, are explaining to the Appropirations Committee why the Department of Social Services is about $158-million over budget. “What we’re seeing is the impact of demand,” said Potamianos of the shift of medical services from State Administered General Assistance to Medicaid, due to the turndown in the economy. “What we’re seeing here is an increase in the Medcaid population.

Sisco said that part of the shortfall is also a previously anticipated $10-million savings from eliminating state medical assistance for non-residents. That issue is currently in court.