April 14, 2009


Dear Families and Friends:

This morning I was interviewed on 790 KGMI Radio regarding the House and Senate budget proposals for 2009-2011. I appreciated the opportunity to share my concerns about the impact of proposed House and Senate nursing home budget cuts. As you are likely aware, each budget takes over $90 million from the care of nursing home Medicaid residents from throughout the state.

As a provider with over 21 years of operating experience, I take seriously my advocacy responsibilities on behalf of our residents and employees, and I was pleased to have the opportunity to share my concerns with the listeners of KGMI.

The Legislature is down to 12 days before they are scheduled to adjourn. Budget proposals are being negotiated now. This is a critical time for our legislators to hear from their constituents regarding the implications of these cuts. If you haven’t had a chance to do so, I would ask that you contact Senator Dale Brandland, Representative Kelli Linville and Representative Doug Ericksen and ask them to eliminate nursing home budget cuts. Just call the Legislative Hotline, 1-800-562-6000, and leave a message for each.

Your voice truly matters in this discussion.

We will continue to monitor budget negotiations and will keep you informed as the Legislature works to pass the 2009—2011 operating budget. If you’d like additional information, please check out www.helpwashingtonseniors.org.

If you have questions, or if we can provide additional information about how you can help us protect our residents, please don’t hesitate to call.

Sincerely,



Tonja A. Myers
Administrator