Dear Neighbors,
Getting premium relief and health care reforms signed into law was the highlight of the week. Here is an update from Saint Paul.
Premium Relief, Reforms Signed Into Law
On Thursday, the House and Senate repassed Senate File 1 which provides more than $300 million in premium relief for thousands of eligible Minnesotans, and also includes a number of reforms to increase competition, consumer protections and accessibility. Governor Dayton has signed the bill into law.
The final agreement for premium relief is a 25 percent premium reduction for Minnesotans on the individual market who do not qualify for MNsure tax credits. The money will be administered through insurance companies, and people are expected to see refunds for their 2017 premiums starting in the next 8-12 weeks. You do not have to have purchased insurance through MNsure to qualify for these premium reductions.
Additionally, Republicans led the way on getting meaningful reforms included in the bill because premium relief alone is only a Band-Aid to our state’s health insurance woes. Reforms in the legislation include allowing for-profit HMOs to operate in Minnesota to increase competition and options for consumers; requiring earlier disclosure of proposed rates to increase transparency; ending surprise billing to protect consumers from undisclosed costs; and implementing policy changes to help more employers contribute to or offer affordable health care for their employees.
While this is only the first step in more reforms we will look to pass this session, Senate File 1 is an excellent start that provides both needed premium relief to Minnesotans struggling under the weight of Obamacare and commonsense reforms.
Governor’s Budget
This week, Governor Mark Dayton delivered his State of the State Address and unveiled his budget proposal for the next two years. I know many of you have heard about the governor’s ill health in the news this week, and I hope you will join me in sending prayers for a full and speedy recovery.
As far as his budget proposal goes, I was disappointed to see that he is once again proposing significant spending increases (an approximately 10 percent increase) and higher taxes which will hurt Minnesota families and taxpayers. Governor Dayton has proposed $1.6 billion in new taxes and fees over the next two years including increasing the gas tax and metro area sales tax, with only $125 million in tax relief. With a $1.4 billion surplus, we can and must provide more relief for Minnesotans.
The House will craft our budget proposal later this year after the February forecast is released. I expect our plan to fund our state’s shared priorities like education and transportation; limit state government growth; implement reforms to make government more efficient and effective; and include significant tax relief for families, small businesses and taxpayers.
HF 291
This week in the Civil Law Committee, we heard House File 291 which will clarify public data under MN Chapter 13 related to the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority. Changing this language will ensure that the MSFA will have to disclose to the public who they give free or discounted tickets to.
After the controversy surrounding their use of suites at the new Vikings’ stadium at taxpayer expense, this ensures that they are open and transparent to the public going forward. HF 291 will next be heard in the State Government Finance Committee.
MCCL March
With fellow legislators at the MCCL March for Life last weekend.
Last Sunday, I attended the MCCL (Minnesota Citizens Concerned for Life) rally at the Capitol. It was great to see so many Minnesotans show up to support the rights of the unborn. As a strong pro-life legislator, I will continue to advocate for policies that stand up for life, babies and the health and well-being of women.
MnDOT Hwy 47 Event
On Thursday, February 2nd from 5-7 pm, MnDOT is hosting a public meeting to discuss mobility needs along Hwy 47 and Ferry Street. They will also be sharing the outcome of the feasibility study to improve safety for motorists, bicyclists and trains. If you’d like to go and listen or share your input, the meeting will be at Green Haven Golf Course (2800 Grennhaven Road, Anoka).
More details about the meeting can be found here.
Staying in Touch
Please know my office is available should you need assistance on a matter of state government. I can be reached by phone at 651-296-1729 or via email at rep.abigail.whelan@house.mn. I also welcome your input and ideas on legislation and matters moving through the Minnesota House. I am here to serve you! Thank you for the honor and privilege of being your state representative.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Abigail