RICHMOND, Va. (AP) _ A new state forecast expects Virginia’s Medicaid costs to increase by nearly $1 billion through the next two-year budget. The $956 million increase is due primarily to a surge in enrollment. More than 51,000 people have enrolled since July 1. The Richmond Times-Dispatch reports that the forecast was released Monday. House Appropriations Chairman S. Chris Jones says the forecast will leave little latitude for any new initiatives in the next budget. Gov. Terry McAuliffe’s spokesman, Brian Coy, says most of the increase is one-time, externally imposed expenses. He says the forecast isn’t evidence of a long-term liability for the program.
