Ritchie Torres Demands Investigation into Hochul’s $9 Billion Home-Care Program

On Tuesday, December 3rd, Representative Ritchie Torres called for state and federal investigations into New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s administration over alleged misconduct in awarding a $9 billion contract under the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP). The Medicaid-funded program, which aids individuals with chronic illnesses and disabilities, has faced controversy following claims that the bidding process was rigged to favor Public Partnerships LLC (PPL).

Torres accused Hochul of conducting a “Potemkin procurement process,” suggesting that PPL’s selection was predetermined. He criticized the administration for bypassing competitive bidding protocols and preventing the state comptroller from reviewing the decision. Calling the process a “multi-billion-dollar boondoggle,” Torres urged the inspectors general to ensure transparency and accountability. However, Hochul’s spokesperson dismissed the allegations, stating the reforms were necessary to address overspending and fraud within CDPAP.

The program’s restructuring involved replacing numerous fiscal intermediaries—companies acting as payroll agents—with a single contractor, PPL. Hochul argued this change would reduce inefficiencies and secure cost savings. Torres countered, asserting that consolidating control under one entity could create a monopoly, driving up costs rather than reducing them. He emphasized, “Monopolies don’t cut costs; they raise prices.”

A key player in the controversy is the healthcare workers’ union, 1199SEIU, which reportedly influenced the selection process to ensure unionization and wage increases for 250,000 home-care aides. While Torres avoided direct criticism of the union, he maintained his focus on the Hochul administration’s actions. The union has openly supported the governor’s reforms, which they believe will benefit workers and clients alike.

The dispute also highlights broader tensions between Torres and Hochul. Torres has criticized the governor’s leadership in various areas, including criminal justice and governance. Speculation about his potential gubernatorial run has grown as he continues to position himself as a reform-minded critic of Albany’s politics.

As lawsuits from displaced fiscal intermediaries aim to challenge the PPL contract, the call for an investigation intensifies scrutiny of Hochul’s administration. With CDPAP reforms set to take effect in April 2025, the outcome of these investigations could significantly impact the program’s future and the political landscape in New York.