The nation's governors have sent a letter to Congress urging them not to impose "unfunded federal mandates and reforms that simply shift costs to states" as they consider health care reform. A House proposal would provide permanent funding for Medicaid expansions, which the governors support.

Writing on behalf of the National Governors Association, chairman Jim Douglas (R) of Vermont says:

Any unfunded expansions would be particularly troubling given that states face budget shortfalls of over $200 billion over the next three years. This gap persists even after the Recovery Act's temporary increases in the federal share of Medicaid, which was essential for avoiding dramatic cuts to critical state services and was greatly appreciated by governors.

Governors welcome the opportunity to share and expand upon the innovative reforms we have instituted in our states to expand coverage, reduce cost and improve the quality of health care. These reforms should inform congressional efforts and must be preserved and encouraged as part of any national reform.

We appreciate your willingness to work with us to pursue financing options that are sustainable at both the federal and state levels.

Obama relied on the support of governors, particularly Republicans like Douglas and Florida's Charlie Crist, to sell his stimulus plan. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, the former Kansas governor, was dispatched to this weekend's NGA conference to hear the state executives' concerns.