SAINT PAUL – The House Health and Human Services Finance Division held a remote hearing today where Minnesota Department of Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm delivered an update to lawmakers on efforts to address COVID-19 in the state’s long-term care facilities. Commissioner Malcolm highlighted the department’s communication with facilities and provider organizations, efforts to investigate outbreaks and provide surveillance, and guidelines for residents, health care personnel, and other staff.
“Many of the people who have contracted COVID-19 are living and working in long-term care facilities,” said Rep. Tina Liebling (DFL – Rochester), the division chair. “The Department of Health is directing resources and assistance to those facilities and working hard to protect vulnerable elders. However, the disease can be quickly transmitted elsewhere in the community as well. I’m thankful for Commissioner Malcolm’s leadership and for her department’s hard work to control the pandemic.”
Commissioner Malcolm’s full presentation to the panel can be accessed here.
The division also approved legislation authored by Rep. Laurie Halverson (DFL – Eagan) to provide a one-time supplemental Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) payment of up to $500 per household to help protect family economic security during the COVID-19 pandemic. MFIP helps families with children meet their basic needs while helping parents move to financial stability through work.
"All Minnesotans deserve economic security during the COVID-19 pandemic. Those who are least likely to have it are being hit hardest by this public health crisis,” said Rep. Halverson. “Using available federal funding to boost payments will help thousands of Minnesotans and their families make ends meet and continue moving towards financial stability."
Finally, the committee approved HF 4601, authored by Rep. Erin Koegel (DFL – Spring Lake Park) which directs grant awards under the state’s Opiate Epidemic Response Fund.
Video of the hearing will be available on House Public Information Services’ YouTube Channel and supporting documents can be accessed on the division webpage.