Proposes Archives - DR News - News, Retirement, Finance

Health Care Reform Bill Proposes Shifting Commercial Prices to Lowest-Paid Hospitals

Boston, Massachusetts – A proposed health care reform bill in the House has sparked discussions due to its mix of positive and concerning elements. The bill aims to enhance state oversight and access to data in the healthcare sector, empowering regulatory bodies like the Health Policy Commission and the Center for Health Information and Analysis. By granting more review power to these entities, the House hopes to address financial issues within provider networks before they …

Ohio Governor Proposes Rules Threatening Access to Gender-Affirming Care, Sparking Outcry from LGBTQ+ Community

Columbus, Ohio – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine’s recent proposals have sparked concerns among transgender advocates, as they fear potential restrictions on gender-affirming care could leave thousands of adults without access to vital treatment. The new rules could affect independent clinics and general practitioners, making it difficult for transgender individuals to receive the care they need and potentially leading to health risks. One such individual, 31-year-old Ashton Colby, worries about the possibility of losing access to …

Social Security Taxes To Be Completely Axed in West Virginia: Governor Jim Justice Proposes Historic Reform

Charleston, West Virginia – In a surprising move, Republican Governor Jim Justice has unveiled a bold plan to completely eliminate Social Security taxes in West Virginia. This proposal, announced during his final State of the State Address on Wednesday, January 10, aims to wipe out all taxes that can be applied to Social Security, following a series of tax rate reductions on state-funded income. The governor emphasized his commitment to tax cuts, stating that the …

Republican Study Committee Budget Proposes Social Security and Medicare Overhaul Ahead of 2024 Election Battle

WASHINGTON (AP) — House Republicans recently unveiled a new budget plan that includes proposals to raise the retirement age for future Social Security beneficiaries and restructure Medicare. While unlikely to be implemented this year, the budget provides insight into the GOP’s governing priorities should they win the 2024 elections. These proposals set the stage for a potentially contentious battle between President Joe Biden and his opponents as he gears up for re-election. The budget, released …

Time Change Controversy: Casket Company Proposes Burying Daylight Saving Time in 2024

Indianapolis, Indiana – As Daylight Saving Time rolls around, the clock-changing tradition that irks many has sparked a unique proposal from a casket company to put it to rest for good. The concept of Daylight Saving Time, an often contentious topic, has once again taken center stage with discussions on its purpose, history, and impact on society. On the second Sunday in March, participating states in the US spring forward by setting their clocks ahead …

Illinois Governor Proposes $52.7 Billion Budget with Major Plans for Pension Overhaul and Migrant Crisis

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois – Gov. J.B. Pritzker revealed a $52.7 billion budget, outlining plans to reform the pension system, allocate funds for newly arriving migrants, and introduce a child tax credit. During a 52-minute joint State of the State and budget address before the Illinois General Assembly, Pritzker highlighted his administration’s focus on early education, social services, and healthcare. He defended the state’s response to the migrant crisis, while also criticizing former President Trump and the …

Payroll Reporting Revolution: SSA Proposes Major Change to Reduce Incorrect Payments to Beneficiaries

The Social Security Administration is taking steps to reduce incorrect payments made to beneficiaries by proposing a major change in the way income is reported. The proposed change, known as Payroll Information Exchange (PIE), aims to reduce manual reporting errors and identify unreported wages. This move is in response to the significant backlash faced by the SSA for attempting to recover overpayments made to beneficiaries, totaling an estimated $13.6 billion during the 2022 financial year. …

OPM Proposes Faster Access to FEHB for New Federal Employees

Washington, D.C. – Federal employees will soon have quicker access to health care benefits under a proposed tweak to the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program. To address potential gaps in health care coverage for new hires, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is proposing changes to the enrollment processing for the FEHB program. Currently, new federal employees may have to wait several weeks to start receiving coverage through FEHB. However, the proposed change would …

Gretchen Whitmer Proposes Boosting Funding for Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics in State Budget for 2025

LANSING, Mich. – Governor Gretchen Whitmer is set to propose increased funding for Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHC) in the upcoming state budget, aiming to expand access to mental health care and substance use disorder services for Michiganders. Whitmer plans to outline her budget vision for the state’s Fiscal Year 2025, with a focus on boosting investments in CCBHCs. This move comes as part of the governor’s ongoing efforts to prioritize mental health and …

Proposed Legislation Proposes Expanding Health Insurance to Florida Faculty and Employees

Florida legislators are considering a proposal that would allow faculty and other employees at the state’s 28 colleges to join the health insurance program used by rank-and-file state workers. Currently, faculty and employees at state universities are part of the state group health insurance program, but those at state colleges are not included. The proposed spending plan for fiscal year 2024-2025, backed by the Senate, includes this provision. The move was approved by the Senate …