Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown) raised critical concerns about the solvency of the Medical Indemnity Fund (MIF) during the Health/Medicaid Budget hearing today. Slater emphasized the ongoing issues with MIF funding and the need for immediate action to ensure individuals relying on the fund continue to receive the health care assistance they need.
“The people in my district are struggling to get the support they deserve through the Medical Indemnity Fund. The answers provided by the Department of Health are simply insufficient,” said Slater. “This fund is essential for families impacted by birth-related neurological injuries, and we cannot allow it to become insolvent.”
Despite the infusion of $58 million in additional funding last year, the 2025 Executive Budget proposes allocating only $52 million, which is expected to trigger the 80% solvency threshold again, raising serious concerns about the program’s future sustainability.
Slater questioned Dr. James V. McDonald, commissioner of the New York State Department of Health, about the lack of substantial funding increases or reforms in the proposed budget. McDonald acknowledged that without additional investment, the MIF is unlikely to remain solvent in the coming years.
“I’m deeply concerned about the governor’s lack of meaningful reform or additional funding for this program. The status quo isn’t good enough for the families who rely on the Medical Indemnity Fund,” Slater stated. “I’ve heard from individuals and families in the district dealing with MIF—it’s been a disaster for them. I won’t stand by while they continue to be let down by this system. I will continue to advocate for their needs and push for a sustainable plan to fix the Medical Indemnity Fund.”
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