WOODBURY, MN—Representative Kelly Fenton, R-Woodbury, Vice Chair of the House Commerce and Regulatory Reform Committee, issued the following statement regarding the resignation of Minnesota Commerce Commissioner Mike Rothman:
"Commissioner Rothman’s tenure was stained by his failure to protect Minnesota consumers and tax dollars. His poor judgment is well documented. On Rothman’s watch, critical staffing and contractual mistakes were made that led to the MNsure disaster. Rothman bragged about arbitrary insurance rate changes that contributed to wild rate shock in the individual market, and lied to consumers about rate increases.
"Rothman failed to safeguard public dollars intended to keep the homes of low-income families warm during winter. Rothman attacked a former employee who alleged sexual harassment and other misconduct. Rothman’s department repeatedly badgered and threatened Minnesota businesses for little or no reason.
"These are not just the failings of one misguided public official, but systemic issues from multiple senior leaders in the department. I hope the Legislative Auditor’s office continues its work to shine a light on the full scope of these failings. Governor Dayton owes it to Minnesotans to appoint a new commissioner that will protect consumers, treat small businesses fairly and manage public dollars faithfully."
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