Press Release: Ethics Concerns Arise Over Former NY Budget Director’s Consulting Work
Former state budget director Robert Mujica is facing scrutiny regarding his consulting role with the Greater New York Hospital Association (GNYHA) amid concerns about potential violations of state ethics laws. Mujica, who left Governor Kathy Hochul’s administration at the end of 2022, began his consulting work for GNYHA in September 2023, shortly before the organization launched a substantial lobbying effort to persuade the state to increase Medicaid spending.
New York law prohibits recent state employees from being compensated for influencing any matters before their former agency for two years after leaving. Mujica, who served as a significant political figure in Albany for years, is now overseeing Puerto Rico’s fiscal control board while consulting on the side. This arrangement raises questions about whether Mujica can ethically provide insight to GNYHA, especially since the group’s lobbying coincided with meetings with Mujica’s previous agency, the Division of the Budget.
GNYHA president Kenneth Raske stated that Mujica’s expertise was critical in advocating for a substantial increase in Medicaid funding, which he argued was essential for safety net hospitals. However, Mujica’s spokesperson claimed that he did not use inside knowledge for his work with GNYHA.
The state’s ethics oversight panel has not confirmed whether it is investigating Mujica, who reportedly communicated with the panel about his role. Mujica also consults for a casino bidding group associated with Mets owner Steve Cohen, reportedly earning $30,000 per month. As debates over Medicaid spending continue, Mujica’s dual engagements highlight ongoing concerns regarding the revolving door between government and private interests.
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