Neighbors,
I’m proud to report that session is moving along in a business-like fashion. We are doing what the people sent us to do with great care – being mindful of our roles as stewards of your hard-earned money.
Budget Forecast
Last Friday, the February budget forecast was released by the Minnesota Management and Budget office. The state of Minnesota’s economy is robust, and the forecast revealed that Minnesota is poised to face a $1.869 billion surplus. This surplus will provide a benchmark for our biennial budget, which will be presented soon, and will allow us to address areas where legislative activity can be approved upon. We are planning on utilizing this surplus to provide much-needed tax relief to all Minnesotans, as well as investing in roads and bridges to address transportation needs across the state.
Improving Patient Care
Senator Melissa Franzen and I held a press conference this month to introduce our bill to improve patient care and remove burdensome regulations between doctors and insurance providers. HF1060 prevents the delay or disruption of medication by providing permanent fixes to insurance company’s prior authorization procedures, which are often frustrating and complicated for both patients and physicians. Cutting this long-standing red tape improves patient care by ensuring that medication is delivered in a timely manner, and is delivered consistently throughout the year of coverage.
This bill is supported by a broad coalition of my and Senator Franzen’s colleagues from both sides of the aisle, the Minnesota Medical Association and its members, the National Alliance on Mental Illness – Minnesota, and several other respected medical organizations.
Tax Credits Heard in Committee
My bill, HF688, was heard in the Greater Minnesota Economic and Workforce Development Policy committee on Tuesday. This legislation establishes a new markets tax credit program, which provides economic incentives to distressed areas of the State that might not otherwise easily attract investment for business formation and the creation of good jobs. It has strong bipartisan and community support throughout Greater Minnesota and Hennepin and Ramsey counties.
House File Two Passes the House
Last night, HF2 passed the House. It is very important to me that parents have a growing sense of control regarding our children’s education. This bill makes quality improvements in curriculum, teacher licensure and retention, and improves upon how instruction is provided. I’m confident that we are preparing our students with a firm foundation to enter the workforce. We are being mindful to implement policies that will make Minnesota’s education system a gem of the Midwest!
Discussing The Future of Healthcare
Thank you to the Minnesota Medical Group Management Association, of which I have been a member for more than twenty years, for hosting an intriguing panel discussion this past week. I was honored to join my colleagues Rep. Erin Murphy and Rep. Joe Schomacker as we discussed our aging population and the future of Medical Assistance, among other important issues that affect their member base.
Stay in Touch
Many of you have already been in touch to discuss your thoughts on the issues that matter most to you. Thank you for sharing your ideas! Please continue to contact me to discuss any legislation put before the House, or any other matters to which I can be of assistance. You can set up a time to visit me at the Capitol by calling my Legislative Assistant at (651) 296-9183, or contact me via email at rep.tony.albright@house.mn. If your friends and family members don’t receive my email updates, encourage them to sign up here.
Rep. Tony Albright