Senator Murray’s Statement on Inclusion of Critical FMAP Extension in Tax Cut and Jobs Bill

(Washington,
D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following
statement after a critical extension of the Federal
Medical Assistance Percentages (FMAP) funding was included in the American
Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act which the Senate will consider this week. If
passed into law, the 6-month extension would allow Washington state to fill a $480
million budget gap and would help avoid a special session of the state
legislature.

“There
is a lot at stake for Washington state families with this extension. Extending FMAP will fill a major hole in the
state budget, will prevent layoffs, and will support families across our state
who are reeling from job losses.

“Passing
this provision will also avoid a costly special session of the state
legislature in which tax increases and across the board cuts to jobs, health
care, and our economic recovery would have to be considered. As we move forward
with this bill, I will continue to fight for this extension so that Washington
state families are given the opportunity to get back on their feet.”