Dear Neighbors,
We are back in Saint Paul again. On Tuesday, there was a ceremony where representatives took the oath of office, administered by Chief Justice Lorie Gildea.
I am pleased to say that Kurt Daudt was once again elected Speaker of the House. Speaker Daudt has lead our caucus with integrity, and held to our conservative principles for the last four years, both in the minority and majority, against extreme democratic politicians. I look forward to his continued leadership.
On Thursday, the Republican Caucus brought forward HF1 and HF2, and moved to suspend the rules and allow their swift passage. HF2 brings Minnesota’s tax code into line with federal tax code, and will provide Minnesotans filing their taxes this year with $21.7 million in immediate tax relief. I am glad that this measure was passed without delay.
HF1 would provide Minnesotans with immediate relief from the MNsure crisis, including premium assistance on plan purchased on the individual market, continuity of care, and several major steps toward a long-term fix.
Unfortunately, House Democrats proved they are not serious about addressing the MNsure crisis, as much as they are concerned with partisan games. Democrats went back on their original promise to suspend the rules and pass the MNsure measure without delay, and played their same old obstructionist, political games once again, at a huge cost to families across the state.
As Vice-Chair of the House Health and Human Services Reform Committee, I am dedicated to continuing to work on the critical MNsure situation. I will keep you updated regarding this issue moving forward.
Sincerely,
Glenn