Dear Neighbors,
Every day that I have had the honor of serving you at the legislature, I continue to be inspired by your stories. I have been working on several bills that are inspired by the stories I’ve heard, with the intention of making Minnesota better for everyone.
Here's an update from St. Paul: |
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Great Start for All Minnesota Children Act
Minnesotans want their children to get a great start, and they want the same for their neighbors' children. This is why, I am in full support of House File 1, the Great Start for All Minnesota Children Act, which received its first public hearing last week. The Early Childhood Finance and Policy Division listened to public testimony about the bill, which will continue moving through the legislative process. More than 30 leading community organizations support this legislation that invests in our top priority, our youngest Minnesotans.
This past week the co-hosts of the Minnesota Values Podcast, Jamie Long and Liz Olson, interviewed HF1 Chief author Rep. Carlie Kotyza-Witthuhn about the bill. I am one of several co-authors of HF1 and the Chief author of the Home Visiting portion of this bill HF1226, which helps new mothers and increases healthy child outcomes. If HF 1 passes, it would make new and improved investments in early learning, child care, prenatal care, and home visiting. Click here to listen to the podcast episode.
Healthcare that puts the Consumer and Patient First
As you know I am a firm believer in common sense and putting people and families first. All Minnesotans deserve access to affordable health care, but currently there are thousands of Minnesotans that struggle with insurance they can barely afford and that does not cover them.
This week I signed on as a co-sponsor to HF1257 which asks providers to demonstrate transparency for the pricing of drugs covered by the plan. This protects many with chronic conditions that have struggled to find a medication that works when they are forced to switch medications no longer covered with little or no notice. Many choose a healthcare provider based largely on assurances that their preferred medications are covered. If families need to hold up to their end of the bargain, health insurance companies should, too.
Constituents Visit
Recently, I had the privilege to meet with constituents representing a range of groups from Arc MN to passionate advocates for the homeless. I also met with the MN Outdoor Heritage Association, Three Rivers Park District and groups that are champions of the arts. The great outdoors, conservation, and the arts are all key components of projects from the Legacy Fund which Minnesotans overwhelmingly support and are near and dear to my heart. I also had the distinct opportunity to meet with individuals who participated in Disability Day on the Hill and Hammar House that helps individuals with disabilities find meaningful work to lead productive lives and be an integral part of our community. |
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Keep in Touch
Please reach out to my office anytime. I value your input and appreciate your ideas!
Sincerely,
Kristin Bahner
State Representative |
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