Legislative Update: March 20, 2024

Dear Neighbors,

We are already in week six of the 2024 Legislative session! I’ve had another busy week debating legislation, listening to constituents, and discussing how we can solve the biggest issues facing our state.

As we continue the work of advancing legislation improving the economy for working families, increasing access to affordable housing, and making health care affordable for all Minnesotans,we are centering the values and voices of our constituents here at the Capitol. I’m grateful to all of you who have come to the Capitol for a visit or a rally and who have called, emailed, and written to share your opinions on the issues and policies you care about.

Here’s an update from Saint Paul.

Health Insurance Coverage for Medically-Necessary Prosthetics

This year, I’m authoring a bill that would require health insurance to cover medically necessary orthotic and prosthetic devices for Minnesotans.

This is personal to me. When I had my accident in 2021, it took over a year and a half to receive my prosthetic device approved by health insurance. Typically, devices can run up to $20,000 per finger and can cause severely painful arthritis and other inflictions in the process. For many, they are faced with the choice of spending tens of thousands of dollars, spending time in pain, or both.

People who suffer limb loss don't expect it to happen, and it usually comes as quite a shock and is very traumatizing. This legislation will go a long way in providing Minnesotans with the healthcare they deserve.

You can view my presentation of this bill here.

House Approves 101 Environmental Projects 

Minnesotans take pride in our legacy of environmental stewardship. That’s why DFLers passed legislation to fund 101 projects across our state that protect our wildlife, water, air, and soil. 

The funding, which comes from the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund, uses a portion of our state lottery proceeds to ensure our environment and natural resources are protected for generations to come.

Debt Fairness Act

Medical debt is the leading cause of bankruptcy in the country. That’s why DFLers have introduced the Debt Fairness Act. Too many people are saddled with unmanageable debt, and our current laws have been insufficient at addressing this dilemma. Medical debt depletes peoples’ rainy-day funds, causes them to incur credit card debt, and to forgo medical treatment altogether. The Debt Fairness Act aims to unburden Minnesotans from medical debt, and help working and middle class families make ends meet.

EMT Training/Paramedic Scholarships Available

DFLers are working to address the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) statewide shortage. One of these initiatives, that I supported, funds a one-time appropriation of $3 million for up to 600 scholarships of $5,000 starting in the fall of 2024 to be awarded by June 30, 2026. If you or anyone you know might be interested in this opportunity to serve the public and give back to the community, you can find eligibility information here.