Albany Update Volume 5 - June 6, 2005 The End is in Sight... The end of the 2005 Legislative session is quickly approaching with June 23rd as the last scheduled day of session. Most observers believe that the Legislature will conclude their business for the year no later than July 4th, if it is necessary to continue beyond June 23rd. There remain few issues that would impede a late June recess. One such issue, the public battle over funding for the Jets stadium, is expected to be concluded over the next few weeks. The second issue that could impact the end of session revolves around the ongoing court challenge to the conversion of Empire Blue Cross from a not-for-profit entity to a for-profit insurer. The New York State Court of Appeals heard oral argument on the case in early May, and it is possible that a decision will come down during June. It remains possible that the Court of Appeals could issue a decision that would eliminate the conversion of Empire as a source of funds for the Health Care Reform Act (HCRA). The loss of billions in dollars in funding for health care programs and many state programs would create a funding crisis that would have to be promptly addressed. On the other hand, the Court could affirm the Empire conversion and allow the Legislature to proceed with the conversion of HIP. The Legislature and Governor would have to agree on the use of any funds made available by HIP conversion. In his SFY 2005-2006 Budget Proposal, Governor Pataki has proposed that $1.2 billion from the HIP conversion be used to keep the HCRA fund solvent. Upcoming Fundraisers Monday, June 6th Robin Schimminger [D] - Chair - Economic Development Albany, $400 ERIC SCHNEIDERMAN [D] - Deputy Minority Leader NYC, $250 Tuesday, June 7th Assembly Republican Conference Albany, $500 Assem. RICHARD GOTTFRIED [D] - Chair - Health Albany, $300 Wednesday, June 8th Democratic Senate Campaign Committee - Albany, $350 Thursday, June 9th Assemblymember Clarence Norman [D] - Deputy Speaker of the Assembly Brooklyn, $125 Friday, June 10th Assem RICHARD GOTTFIRED [D] - Chair - Health NYC, $350 If you have any questions about fundraisers, please call Sandy in the Albany office, 518 462-4620. Back to newsletter list

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