ABILENE,Tx -- Because of a nearly $18 billion budget shortfall, the state of Texas could be forced to cut back Medicaid funding for nursing homes.

Dr. Bruce Davis, of the Silver-Haired Legislature, says if these cuts do take place, it could be fatal for rural nursing homes.

"I know several in the area that are on a shoe string right now that if they lower this reimbursement rate it could be fatal. A local area like Sweetwater and like Cisco and Eastland, they need their nursing home they need to be close to family," Davis said.

Seventy percent of nursing home care is covered by Medicaid, which aids low income elderly and disabled patients.

Despite an increase in funding during recent years, Texas still ranks 49th in Medicaid reimbursement rates.

And making matters worse for nursing homes already in jeopardy, state lawmakers are talking bigger medicaid cuts for next year.

Texas is eligible for $858 million in medicaid stimulus money that could help. Governor Perry's office says it will apply for the funds by the Sept. 24 deadline.

Davis says he plans to take bus loads of Abilene senior citizens with him to Austin on Feb. 8 to a rally planned by the Texas Senior Advocacy Coalition.

They plan to tell the Legislature not to implement the proposed cuts or they will vote Texas leaders out of office. "You know who votes the most. Seniors, that's who goes to the polls."

If you would like to go with Davis to Austin to make your voice heard, call Wysteria Place.