ST. PAUL – House Republican Leader Rep. Harry Niska, R-Ramsey, is raising concerns after new data reveals enrollment in MinnesotaCare for undocumented immigrants has more than doubled initial estimates, sending program costs skyrocketing well beyond projections.
The expansion, passed by Democrats in 2023, was originally projected to cost $196 million over four years. With current enrollment, that cost has ballooned to an estimated $550 million and continues to grow. The Minnesota Department of Health indicates 17,396 undocumented individuals are now enrolled in the state-funded health insurance program, more than twice the original forecast of 7,700.
Niska said that data was not made publicly available and only came to light after persistent inquiries by House Republicans.
“These numbers are outrageous,” Niska said. “While Minnesota families are struggling to afford everyday essentials, Democrats are blowing over half a billion taxpayer dollars on a program they didn’t fully explain and prioritizing those here illegally over the needs of hardworking citizens. It’s a clear example of misplaced priorities and a lack of transparency.”
Unlike traditional MinnesotaCare recipients, Niska said illegal immigrants are not eligible for federal funding support. Typically, the federal government covers 90 percent of program costs, with the state responsible for the remaining 10 percent. Because this population is ineligible for federal matching funds, Minnesota taxpayers are covering the full cost of their coverage.
At the same time, Minnesota faces a projected $6 billion budget deficit. Niska warned that continued funding for the healthcare expansion could jeopardize other critical services such as ambulance operations, rural hospitals, and emergency care.
“Democrats made a conscious decision to prioritize benefits for individuals here illegally over the needs of hardworking Minnesotans,” Niska said. “House Republicans are focused on bringing fiscal responsibility back to the Capitol and ensuring taxpayer dollars are used wisely.”
Republicans have introduced legislation to repeal the MinnesotaCare expansion for undocumented immigrants, citing the need to control costs and protect essential services. A full repeal would save taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars over the next four years and reduce incentives for illegal immigration to the state, Niska said.
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