George H.W. Bush: “I think we've got agreement on that one. And I can assure you that's what we will be trying to do. I hope it doesn't…”

“I think we've got agreement on that one. And I can assure you that's what we will be trying to do. I hope it doesn't require--we were just talking about this when I was talking to the Director before coming over here, as to whether legislative changes are essential in any of this waiving of authority and control. And I gather we can do a lot without that. But Dick, do you want to address yourself to that one? Some of it, again, is technical. Director Darman. Only to say, Mr. President, that this is one where I do think we are in complete agreement and are anxious to make sure that the waiver process moves more quickly and also that in applying it we're more flexible than we have been in the past, both of which I think have been subjects of legitimate complaint by the Governors. That is, that we've been too slow and that we've been too, if you'll pardon the word, illiberal. So, I would think under the President's direction you'll see a visible and discernible and prompt change on this subject. Governor Miller. I'd just like to ask a more particular followup question, after the President, of the Office of Management and Budget, and that is: Can that be interpreted to go into the provider payment in which the OMB had a contrary position that was more limiting on States just several months ago and that was worked out, a temporary compromise, I believe, with the Congress? Can we interpret, then, that with that type of philosophy that we will be able to utilize that in the future? And that's something that affects our budget of potentially $25 million; some other States, a couple of hundred million. And that's the type of interpretation, I think, that has caused us some concern. Director Darman. Are you referring to the Medicaid agreements we reached--excuse me, Mr. President, may I?”