Judge: Medicaid fight must wait

The Clarion-Ledger, 8/28/8

Attorneys for dozens of hospitals said they’ll continue challenging Gov. Haley Barbour’s latest plan to pay for Medicaid, despite a judge’s ruling.

Hinds County Chancery Judge William Singletary didn’t address the merits of their case, saying it’s too early to determine whether Barbour’s plan is legal.

The governor is proposing to raise hospital taxes, cut Medicaid reimbursement rates and replace the cuts with federal money associated with the health-care program. The plan hasn’t received federal approval yet.

“This Court cannot assume jurisdiction where such does not exist,” Singletary wrote.