(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) released the following statement after a critical extension of the Federal Medical Assistance Percentages (FMAP) funding was included in the American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act which the Senate will consider this week. If passed into law, the 6-month extension would allow Washington state to fill a $480 million budget gap and would help avoid a special session of the state legislature.

“There is a lot at stake for Washington state families with this extension. Extending FMAP will fill a major hole in the state budget, will prevent layoffs, and will support families across our state who are reeling from job losses.

“Passing this provision will also avoid a costly special session of the state legislature in which tax increases and across the board cuts to jobs, health care, and our economic recovery would have to be considered. As we move forward with this bill, I will continue to fight for this extension so that Washington state families are given the opportunity to get back on their feet.”