New York health officials are scrambling after the federal government unexpectedly cut $300 million in pandemic-era aid six months ahead of schedule, according to the Times Union. The funds, originally from the 2021 American Rescue Plan Act, were crucial for state and local health programs.
The cuts, announced by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, impact agencies tackling the opioid crisis, measles outbreaks, and mental health issues. Gov. Kathy Hochul and legislative leaders say the state lacks the resources to replace the lost money, blaming federal Republicans for the shortfall.
Officials are still assessing how deeply programs will be affected, but nonprofits and local providers are already bracing for canceled contracts and reduced services.
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