ST. PAUL, MN—On a bipartisan vote of 73-54, the Minnesota House approved the 2017 Health Care Emergency Aid and Access bill (Senate File 1) which provides direct premium relief and preserves access to life-saving and end-of-life care. While lawmakers work toward long-term state and federal health insurance reforms, this legislation institutes immediate consumer-driven improvements that stand alone and will not be impacted by those future changes.
“This was a frustrating vote. $300 million tax payers’ dollars being put into a system so flawed is as hard as it is necessary. Of course we are looking in hindsight, but a situation where someone is getting something paid for by someone else is ripe for problems and needs to have strict oversight,” said Rep. Bob Loonan, R-Shakopee. “On top of the premium relief, this bill ensures Minnesotans can continue to receive life-saving treatments, and begins the process of bringing lasting reform to Minnesota’s health care insurance market.”
Loonan went on to say, “Some in government are saying ‘let's wait for reforms,’ I woke up this morning ready to get going, to fix this. I would like each one of us to think for a minute about how we utilize health care. What are consumers doing to put downward pressure on costs? Minnesotans need to change that.”
House Republicans' plan offers a 25 percent premium reduction for those Minnesotans who need it most -- individuals who earn between $35,640 & $95,040 and families of four who earn between $72,900& $194,400 who live in Minnesota qualify. In addition, it allows for patients with serious illnesses or those receiving end-of-life care to continue seeing their doctor. Lastly, the plan increases affordable options through timely reforms that stand independent of impending federal action.
"House Republicans have moved swiftly to provide relief and preserve care for Minnesotans," said Rep. Joe Hoppe, R-Chaska, the chief author of the bill. "I look forward to working with our Senate colleagues and the governor to see this bill signed into law as soon as possible."
The bill is expected to enter conference committee where differences between the Senate and House versions will be reconciled.
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