ST. PAUL, MN—On Wednesday, the Minnesota House of Representatives passed a bill, HF2047, authored by Rep. Keith Franke, R-St. Paul Park. The bill passed on a unanimous vote of 128-0. This marks Rep. Franke’s first standalone bill to pass on the House floor.
The legislation requires the Department of Human Services to create a strategic plan to eliminate HIV/AIDS in Minnesota. It requires the Department of Health, working in conjunction with the Department of Human Services and stakeholders, to develop a comprehensive plan identifying strategies to:
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Determine levels of testing, care, and services necessary to eliminate HIV/AIDS
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Determine specific outcomes that must be met
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Provide recommendations for how to leverage existing funds
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Provide recommendations for new and enhanced interventions, and additional resources needed
“This isn’t always a disease that’s talked about, but it’s still a big issue in Minnesota, and one we need to address going forward,” said Franke. “I’m extremely humbled to pass my first bill with unanimous, bipartisan support. This legislation has a chance to make a difference in the lives of countless Minnesotans, and could help reduce or eliminate HIV/AIDS in our state.”
Now passed by the House, HF2047 heads to the Minnesota Senate.
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