Saint Paul, MN. – Today, the Minnesota House of Representatives passed HF 2995, the health budget and policy bill. The bill makes significant investments that will lower health care costs while improving coverage so everyone can access the care they need. A link to the full bill language is available here, and a spreadsheet listing the exact expenditures is available here.
“For too many Minnesotans, quality health care is still out of reach. We’re investing in transformational changes that will save the state money, decrease costs, and streamline access to quality care for everyone,” said Rep. Tina Liebling (DFL - Rochester) Chair of the Health Finance and Policy Committee. “Thank you to the committee staff and members who worked tirelessly to craft a bill that meets the moment and sets Minnesota on a better, more equitable health care path. I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues on a final bill which serves the needs of all Minnesotans.”
The bill improves access, coverage, and stability for Minnesotans who need it most. Undocumented residents will be eligible for MinnesotaCare, and Medical Assistance will have improved eligibility for children. The bill protects reproductive care and improves dental health and mental health coverage, all of which lead to a more equitable health care system.
Ever increasing costs, reduced life expectancy, and widespread inefficiencies have come to define our health care system. The Health budget includes transformational system changes with provisions allowing for the freedom to choose not to enroll in managed care, deprivatization of our public health programs, efforts to control escalating health care costs, and funding for a foundational study of universal health care in Minnesota. These changes will lead to a lean and efficient system with more accessible and affordable access for all.
“All Minnesotans deserve access to high-quality, affordable health care,” said Speaker Melissa Hortman. “The House DFL budget will expand access to care, improve public health, and protect reproductive freedom. We’re working to ensure Minnesotans can get the care they need at a cost they can afford.”
It also takes the first steps toward creating a robust mental health system with investments like mental health grants and a 988 suicide and crisis lifeline. These investments will build out a system that will save lives, reduce stress on hospitals, and create appropriate spaces for mental health treatment.
“All Minnesotans deserve affordable, high-quality health care no matter your zip code, income, or background. That’s why our health budget takes significant steps to reduce the cost of health care and expand access,” said House Majority Leader Jamie Long. “Our health budget builds on the important consumer protections in the Affordable Care Act by establishing a public option for health insurance, which will help to put people at the center of health care, not profits.”
The budget provides for a MinnesotaCare Buy-In which will improve access and affordability for everyone. It will give Minnesotans a true choice in what health coverage is best for them by providing an affordable, reliable and quality option.
It also makes several investments to support health care workers who form the foundation of our system. This includes provisions for workforce revitalization, workplace safety, EMS training and grants, and safe staffing levels for nurses. These investments will lead to improved care, increased access particularly in rural areas, and a stronger, more capable workforce.
Lastly, this budget improves and guarantees reproductive care access now and in the future. With increased funding for reproductive health, funds for family planning, and the repeal of harmful anti-abortion language, the Health budget bill takes a firm stand on reproductive care. Under this bill every Minnesotan will be able to receive the care which serves them, their health, and their families best.
Video of the floor debate will be uploaded to the House Information Youtube page.
###