Dear Neighbors,
The first month of the legislative session is in the history books. Here’s a brief update on what’s been going on so far:
Premium Relief Conference Committee
I had the pleasure of serving on the SF1 conference committee, and together we reached a compromise that will provide quick relief to people who purchase their health insurance on the individual market, the bill was passed by both houses and signed by the governor. The good news is the bill will give those who buy their insurance on the individual market, but don’t already qualify for subsides, a 25% rebate on their insurance payments without delay. That’s nearly 125,000 people who were in dire need of relief. In response, the open enrollment period has been extended. The deadline to buy insurance has been extended until Wednesday, February 8th. Learn more or shop for coverage at https://www.mnsure.org.
While I am thrilled that we are able to offer premium relief, the fact is that it should never have taken this long. A rapid response to rising premiums was held up for over 3 months while legislators debated fundamental changes to our health care system, such allowing insurance plans in Minnesota that would not cover illnesses like diabetes and cancer screening. I fought this proposal and it was removed from the bill, but several other changes to Minnesota insurance laws will change. These proposals bypassed the committee process in spite of a clear lack of understanding by legislators on the short term and long term impacts of these new laws, and with little or no public testimony on the proposals. I believe in an open and transparent legislative process, and believe that real reform needs to be thoroughly debated by legislators and members of the public.
Premium relief was a necessary short term fix, but long term changes are still needed to address the issue of health care reform. I’m busy working with my colleagues on policies that will provide true health care reform by stabilizing our insurance markets and addressing the trend of rising health costs,. These proposals deserve thoughtful debate and consideration so that we pass laws that make a difference in the lives of Minnesotans.
Dakota County Homelessness Forum
On Monday night, I attended a forum on homelessness in Dakota County at Shepard of the Valley Lutheran Church. More than 200 community members attended to hear about how homelessness is impacting Dakota County. It was heartening to see so many people come together to hear about the scope of the problem, the resources available, and how they can get involved. You can read more at Homeless in Dakota County.
(A photo of legislators and advocates.)
Governor Dayton’s Health and the Budget
A couple weeks ago Governor Dayton delivered his seventh State of the State address. Near the end of the address he collapsed. Thankfully he’s was fine and able to head home after a quick check from paramedics. During his news conference the next day on his two year budget, he let it be known that he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. The good news we heard this week is that it hasn’t spread and he’s working out a treatment plan with his doctors at Mayo. I hope you’ll join me in praying for his health and a quick recovery
While that news has overshadowed his message in the State of the State speech and his budget, he issued a vision of prosperity and opportunity for Minnesotans. Governor Dayton stressed the need to double down on making Minnesota’s education system the best in the nation, from early childhood through college and career training. He also talked about how important it is that we address the problems Minnesotans face in a bipartisan way. I look forward to working with the Governor and my colleagues on the other side of the aisle so we can deliver for Minnesotans on the issues that matter.
Finally, I want to make sure you know you can contact me about any issues that are important to you. Please don’t hesitate to contact me to schedule an appointment or share your concerns via phone or e-mail.
You call my office at 651-296-4128 or email me at rep.laurie.halverson@house.mn
Sincerely,
Laurie Halverson