Florida’s Medicaid agency clarified that a controversial $10 million donation connected to First Lady Casey DeSantis’ Hope Florida program did not come from recouped Medicaid funds. However, the political and legal fallout continues, as state lawmakers investigate whether the donation was politically motivated and potentially misused.
Florida’s Medicaid Agency Responds to Scrutiny
Agency Denies Misuse of Medicaid Funds
Florida’s top Medicaid regulator issued a statement on April 22, 2025, denying that a $10 million donation made to a nonprofit linked to First Lady Casey DeSantis’ Hope Florida program came from Medicaid dollars. The explanation comes amid growing legislative scrutiny and public concern about the transparency of the settlement funds.
The Background: Centene Settlement Details
$67 Million Agreement Explained
Last year, Centene Corp. agreed to pay Florida $67 million to settle claims that the state Medicaid program had been overcharged for prescription drugs. The settlement included $57 million specifically intended to recover lost Medicaid funds, and up to $10.8 million earmarked for other potential damages. A portion of this remaining amount—$10 million—was donated to the nonprofit associated with Hope Florida.
Legislative Concerns and Political Fallout
Lawmakers Question Legality and Purpose
State Representative Alex Andrade (R-Pensacola), who chairs the House Health Care Budget Committee, questioned whether the $10 million donation was an improper diversion of public funds. He argued that the money may have been funneled toward political efforts to oppose a marijuana legalization amendment in 2024, raising legal and ethical questions.
AG Uthmeier Under Fire
Attorney General Responds to Allegations
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, who previously served as Gov. Ron DeSantis’ chief of staff, was accused of overseeing the transaction. Andrade accused Uthmeier of directing the donation to political committees opposing Amendment 3, which failed to pass. Uthmeier denied these allegations, calling them “politicized narratives” and stating that he was not involved in the specific negotiation over donation use.
Broader Legal Context and Other State Settlements
Florida Among Last to Finalize Settlement
Florida was one of more than 20 states that settled with Centene over improper charges by the company’s former pharmacy benefit manager. While other states such as California and Texas settled earlier for larger amounts, Florida finalized its agreement later, with external legal assistance from the firm Liston and Deas. That firm is no longer representing the state.
Ongoing Legislative Investigation
Lawmakers Seek Further Testimony
Following recent committee hearings, Andrade announced plans to summon additional witnesses, including legal counsel for the Hope Florida Foundation. He also signaled potential subpoenas to obtain internal records from multiple agencies, including the Department of Children and Families.
Official Reassurance from State Counsel
Settlement Deemed Legal Under State Law
AHCA General Counsel Andrew T. Sheeran maintained that the donation terms were consistent with Florida law. His letter to legislative leaders included documentation from Centene outlining how the funds were calculated and categorized, stating the transaction did not violate any legal boundaries.
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