The 2022-23 Final State Budget Agreement contains significant changes for local health departments. For the first time since SFY 2013-2014, the State has invested a substantial amount into the Article 6 State Aid Program, increasing the budget $77.1 million over two years.
This considerable investment in Public Health comes in two parts. The first portion of the budget contains $20.1 million to increase the base grant for Local Health Departments statewide.
The second portion consists of $57 million that has been set aside to allow Local Health Departments to claim fringe benefits expenses, which will assist in the hiring and retention of staff. Historically, fringe benefits were ineligible under the Article 6 program. According to NYSACHO, now up to 50% of fringe for total personnel costs will be eligible for reimbursement.