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We've collected a stories about the 2015 Louisiana Legislative Session. What new bill is coming up for a vote? How are lawmakers doing in protecting higher education and health care from cuts? What other initiatives are in the works for Louisiana? Find them here.

Community Hospitals Say Jindal Budget Would Levy Cuts

lahospitalcareers.com

Private hospitals say Gov. Bobby Jindal's budget proposal would shutter a program that cares for sickly babies and cut money they're paid for emergency room care for Medicaid patients.

Louisiana Hospital Association President Paul Salles said Wednesday those $25 million in cuts are included in Jindal's spending recommendations for the fiscal year that begins July 1.

Targeted for elimination is a program that pays hospitals for the care of premature, low-birth weight babies. The governor also proposes to pay less for Medicaid patients who go to emergency rooms with non-emergency medical needs.

State health secretary Kathy Kliebert said the budget proposal would keep critical services intact. She said she's willing to continue negotiations with the hospitals as lawmakers craft a final version of the budget over the next few months.

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