News from Rep. Dave Baker 03-13-2015

Dear Friends,

 

This week much of my focus was on bills promoting mental health in Minnesota. I introduced a bill with Sen. Lyle Koenen that aims to expand mental health services for children with severe mental illnesses. DHS estimates that between 300-400 children each year have needs that can't be met by existing services. This bill would make sure these children receive the care they deserve, improve their quality of life, and help more children stay closer to their homes and communities. I'm proud of the bipartisan support for this bill, and will keep you updated on its progress.

 

The Alexandria Echo Press wrote a nice editorial in support of our bill, which you can read by clicking here.

 

Other mental health bills I'm working on:

-HF1634, which would change the way hospitals are reimbursed for treating patients with cerebral palsy and other conditions.

-HF604, a bill to increase the medical assistance rates for chemical dependency providers. I'm passionate about raising awareness for chemical addictions. Addiction is not a choice, and something that can impact people from all walks of life.

-HF1652, which improve Minnesota's prescription monitoring program

 

Health Insurance Transparency

I also introduced a bill this week that would give families more time to plan ahead as they shop for health insurance through MNsure. My bill would require that premium prices be available to the public 30 days before the open enrollment period begins. Right now, plan prices aren't available until the first day of open enrollment. A provision similar to my bill was amended on to one of our top health reform bills, House File 5, this week in committee.

 

Survey

Just a reminder to please consider taking my 2015 legislative survey if you haven't already. Thanks to those of who you have taken time to fill it out already. Visit the survey page by clicking here.