Saint Paul, MN. – Today, the Minnesota House of Representatives passed SF 2995, the health and human services conference committee report. The health portion of the bill makes significant investments to lower health care costs while improving coverage so everyone can access the care they need. 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. “This is a bill that shows our commitment to every Minnesotan’s humanity.”
The bill improves access, coverage, and stability for Minnesotans who need it most. Medical Assistance will now have improved continuous eligibility for children. Undocumented residents will be eligible for MinnesotaCare, a broadly supported provision that would allow some 40,000 people who live, work, and pay taxes in Minnesota to get coverage. This provision is a financial boon to healthcare providers as well, as they’ve often had to provide charity care to patients who are uninsured. The bill also protects reproductive care and improves dental and mental health coverage, all of which lead to a more equitable health care system.
“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 works to create a robust mental health system with investments like a rate increase for mental health services, mental health grants, and funding for 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 and sets us on a path to establishing a public option for health insurance, which will help to put people at the center of health care, not profits.”
The budget provides a path to MinnesotaCare Buy-In to 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. 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 budget 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.
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