Governor Kathy Hochul announced on Mar. 20 that the federal government has approved New York’s plan to return to the Basic Health Plan, a move she said will protect health care coverage for 1.3 million people.
The announcement comes as many New Yorkers face uncertainty about their health insurance due to recent federal policy changes. Hochul said the decision is important because it helps ensure continued access to care for hundreds of thousands of residents who might otherwise struggle to afford coverage.
In her statement, Hochul addressed the impact of recent legislative actions in Washington. “Because Republicans used their majority to pass the largest health care cuts in history, hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers are still facing painful decisions about whether they can afford coverage, and no state can fully backfill these draconian cuts.”
Hochul also emphasized her commitment to supporting families and maintaining a strong health care system in the state. “Even when Washington falls short, I’m going to keep doing everything I can to protect families, strengthen our health care system and make sure every New Yorker gets the care they need.”
The governor’s statement follows her meeting with Dr. Mehmet Oz earlier in the day, which she said led directly to securing federal approval for the plan.
Observers will be watching how this change affects access and affordability for those enrolled in New York’s Basic Health Plan moving forward.