Computer trouble looms for states in 2000, U.S. finds; benefit checks an issue; social welfare programs seen as vulnerable to delays if repairs are not made
Article Abstract:
The inability of many states to meet year 2000 renovation deadlines probably will disrupt benefit payments and services, according to Federal and state officials. Recipients of programs like welfare, Medicaid and food stamps could be impacted. Unemployment insurance benefits could experience problems as early as Jan 1999, federal officials said, because their benefit years already will have carried over to 2000. Such delays would have a ripple effect on county officials, who assign many Federal benefit programs. Only one third of the 421 computer systems that handle key health, welfare and nutrition programs have met year 2000 compliance standards, according to a recent GAO survey. Year 2000 renovation is due by Sep 1998, the Federal Government said, to allow for testing and the correction of software errors. Some states are falling behind in their efforts to achieve compliance or prepare contingency plans.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1998
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Justices, 6-3, bar veto of line items in bills; see H.I.V. as disability; spending at issue
Article Abstract:
The US Supreme Court, in a 6-3 decision, ruled that the 1996 Line Item Veto Act is unconstitutional. President Clinton, who expressed disappointment at the ruling, has used the act to rewrite 11 laws and eliminate 82 items, saving less that 1% of the $1.6 trillion Federal budget. The ruling settled a suit by New York City and Idaho potato growers against Clinton, who had eliminated $2.6 billion for New York City hospitals and tax breaks Idaho farmers from a Federal spending bill. Congress had overturned presidential line-item vetoes of 38 military construction projects, yet some leaders said they will renew Congressional efforts to fight for the law.
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US Supreme Court rules Line Item Veto Act unconstitutional
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1998
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Americans lacking health insurance put at 16 percent
Article Abstract:
The number of Americans without health insurance continues to rise despite a favorable job market and a healthy economy.The Census Bureau has pegged three main contributors to the continued decline in coverage. The welfare rolls have been declining leaving former Medicaid enrollees with low paying jobs that offer little in the way of medical coverage. The majority of new jobs have been created by small businesses which are less likely to offer coverage. The cost of health care and insurance continues to rise despite the strong economy motivating more and more employers to cut back or discontinue their health care offerings.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1998
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