Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Here is an update from St. Paul.
Addressing Vulnerable Adult Abuse and Neglect
This week, the Aging and Long-Term Care Committee held their last meeting. The focus of our committee this session was on addressing the disturbing and heartbreaking problem of abuse and neglect of our state’s vulnerable adults.
To begin addressing these issues, hold the Office of Health Facility Complaints that failed so miserably accountable, and implement reforms that better protect our vulnerable community, I am carrying legislation that received a hearing in the Health and Human Services Reform Committee this week.
It is important that we fix this problem and do it right. We want to make sure our solutions are compassionate, and take into account all the factors involved that will make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable adults and our aging loved ones.
Reducing the MNsure Tax
This week, a bill is moving through the House that would reduce the MNsure tax from 3.5 percent down to 2 percent. This is an important initiative that will save Minnesotans $30 million and help lower premium costs.
Last session we advanced a number of comprehensive reforms to tackle our state’s MNsure mess and address skyrocketing costs and dwindling choice on our individual market. Thanks to those efforts, we stabilized the market and helped bring down rates for many folks. There is still much more work to be done, however, and lowering the MNsure tax is another important step.
Medical Assistance Reform Bill
Republicans in the House and Senate unveiled a new bill this week that would help lift folks out of poverty and strengthen our state’s workforce. The bill would implement work, job training, or community service requirements for able-bodied adults currently on Medical Assistance (MA). These requirements would not apply to a child’s sole caregiver, or anyone with a disability, certain medical diagnoses, addictions or other barriers to employment.
Our economy is strong and for the first time in a long time there are more job openings than workers to fill it. MA has grown extensively under the Dayton Administration, and we want to make commonsense and reasonable reforms that make sure no one is getting left behind in our growing economy.
At the Capitol
With constituents Dr. Steve Biermaier and Dr. Jason Menge for Chiropractors Day at the Capitol
With the Wheat Growers and Farm Bureau who were at the Capitol this week
With folks from ARRM, a nonprofit that advocates for community-based services that support people with disabilities.
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It’s an honor and privilege to work for you at the Capitol. Don’t hesitate to contact my office at any time this session to share your thoughts, concerns or ideas. I am here to serve you!
Sincerely,
Deb
**Encourage your neighbors and friends to sign up for my email updates at www.house.mn/01B