Dear Neighbors,
It’s been great being back in the district and seeing you around more. Now that we’re finished with the legislative session, I love being home and spending more time in our area; especially with the warm weather! I wanted to send out a quick update on a couple important reminders for this summer.
Health Insurance Update
We received good news Friday as the Minnesota Department of Commerce released preliminary rates for the 2019 individual insurance market showing that Republican reforms are helping to stop some of the skyrocketing costs from Obamacare. In fact, all five carriers for the individual market are predicting decreasing premiums for next year.
Following Democrats’ continued mistakes related to Obamacare, we’re showing there’s solutions to help Minnesota families. Friday's preliminary rate release illustrates how our approach can help stabilize rates, helping Minnesotans in the process.
Capitol News
Though we’re finished with the legislative session, our work in St. Paul hasn’t stopped. Recently, the Legislative Commission on Data Practices – which I chair – held a hearing to discuss the privacy of your health records. Many believe that the "P" in HIPAA stands for "privacy," however, it stands for "portability." The commission is talking about how to have better coordination of care and to reduce duplicate diagnostic testing while protecting your right to control who can see your health records. There is a proposal that we move from the Minnesota Health Record act, which requires your affirmative consent to have your health records shared, to HIPAA-only for treatment, payment and health care operations. This discussion will be on-going throughout the interim. I am hopeful consensus can be reached.
I also met recently with concerned citizens regarding family law issues. This is an area of the law I’ve been working on since coming to the legislature.
Summer Fun
I’m sure all of our local kids have already been out to enjoy all our community has to offer in the summer. Coon Rapids put together a great booklet with information on classes, events, teams, and more for all ages! You can click here to see all the opportunities in Coon Rapids this summer.
Please Contact Me
As always, please reach out to my office if you need anything. I’d love to set up a time to meet now that I’m back home more.
Peggy