Gov. Paul LePage and U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree have met to discuss a Medicaid-coverage issue that's critical in the state's effort to fill a $220 million budget gap.

The Republican governor and Democratic congresswoman met Tuesday morning in LePage's office to discuss the likelihood of the federal government allowing the state to reduce Medicaid eligibility in three areas. Doing so would reduce Maine's budget shortfall by $37 million.

The 1st District congresswoman said after the meeting that she doesn't think the waiver will be granted but she'll continue to pursue the matter.

LePage spokeswoman Adrienne Bennett said the meeting between the governor and Pingree was "positive" and the two agreed that the state is in a financial crisis. The governor also plans to pitch the waiver with federal officials.