Dear Neighbor,
Field work has kept me quite busy lately, but I want to take a minute to pass along a couple of important items.
First of all, we received disappointing news Thursday that Minnesotans who purchase individual health insurance policies face double-digit increases for 2016. This includes MNsure enrollees, where the largest carrier (Blue Cross and Blue Shield) has the largest average increase at 49 percent.
Many people predicted there would be an increase, but it is a bit overwhelming to see premiums raised to that degree. It concerns me how this will impact people who can least afford this, especially when we were told by the architects of MNsure that Minnesotans would save around $500 per year by creating this program.
Numerous factors come into play regarding the increases, but Obamacare mandates are part of what is causing the spike. It is clear MNsure is not working the way it was pitched to Minnesotans and we need to find a better way to insure our citizens.
Many of the reform measures introduced to bring increased transparency and cost savings have been ignored to this point, but maybe this latest shockwave will bring attention to the matter and create some urgency at the Capitol.
In other news, I encourage area businesses to apply for grants of up to $100,000 that can be used to train workers in Greater Minnesota.
Grant awards may be used by new or expanding businesses to pay direct training costs, including wages for on-the-job training. Training may be provided in-house, by institutions of higher education, by federal, state or local agencies, by consultants, or by equipment vendors. A 1-to-1 funding match is required.
Businesses in Greater Minnesota often find it difficult to fill positions. This is a way to help willing and able workers learn new skills and succeed on the job. It is a win-win situation for both employers and employees.
The funding is available through the Job Training Incentive Program administered by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development. Only businesses outside the seven-county Twin Cities metro area are eligible and other qualifications exist.
Applications will be accepted starting Oct. 15. Visit the DEED website at or email jodie.greising@state.mn.us for more information.
Sincerely,
Paul