Tag Archives: Department of Health and Welfare
Lawmakers not surprised DHW layoffs, closures
Several Idaho lawmakers say they aren’t shocked by the 126 layoffs and nine office closures planned at the Department of Health and Welfare (DHW), with some saying similar action at other state agencies could be coming. Sen. Dean Cameron, R-Rupert, … Continue reading
DHW will close nine offices to meet budget reductions
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (DHW) announced Tuesday that it will shut down nine of its 29 offices across the state within the next two months. DHW will also lay off 126 state employees, including 32 in administrative … Continue reading
Sen. Patti Anne Lodge on DHW, immunizations
Among the areas of state spending hit hard by the reductions to the Idaho budget were health and human services. Almost $1 out of every $5 paid in state taxes goes to these programs. During the past two years, state … Continue reading
Department of Health and Welfare warns parents against certain Easter gifts
Baby chickens, though cute, should not be given as Easter gifts, warns the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare in a news release. The department cautions that giving young chickens or ducklings to children as Easter gifts can endanger those … Continue reading
Senate panel approves targeted Medicaid reductions
The Idaho Senate Health and Welfare Committee approved a plan that could reduce the state’s spending on Medicaid by $3.4 million, which would be a part of the $42 million to $47 million in reductions needed to balance the state … Continue reading
Proposal to curb Medicaid costs still needs Senate approval
One item of business that Idaho lawmakers still need to take up is a proposal that would limit Medicaid costs paid by the state and federal government. The Idaho House approved a plan that would reduce reimbursements to health care … Continue reading
Medicaid budget approved with reductions
Idaho lawmakers have approved the spending plan for parts of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (DHW), which includes a reduction in state funding for Medicaid. Spending for health and human services is the second largest item in the … Continue reading
Senate approves $25 million voluntary tax on hospitals
Private hospitals are agreeing to pay $25 million in assessments to the state of Idaho in order to ensure federal funding through Medicaid. The Idaho Senate approved the proposal Thursday, which now heads to the governor. The $25 million is … Continue reading
Lawmakers approve studying random drug testing for health and welfare assistance
The Idaho Legislature will ask the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (DHW) to study the potential cost and legal hurdles to start random drug testing for people receiving public assistance. On a 19-16 vote, the Idaho Senate Tuesday narrowly … Continue reading