The Maine Department of Health and Human Services is projecting a budgetary shortfall of more than $70 million in the current fiscal year according to an announcement by Commissioner Mary Mayhew.

"The projected shortfall clearly exposes the historical reality of underfunding programs, the complexities of the budget process and the challenge that a new Administration faces in inheriting a pre-built baseline budget with pre-built assumptions," said Commissioner Mayhew. "It is also reflective of increased utilization of services and the loss of anticipated state revenues. We are continuing to analyze our budget to better understand this challenge, to seek immediate solutions and to plan for the future."

The budget crunch is due to a variety of factors. Additional physician claims accounted for at least $10 million. Unexpected increases in Medicare and MaineCare costs also have contributed to the budget hole.

The department is drafting a supplemental budget request for the consideration of Governor Paul LePage and the Maine Legislature.