Skip to main content Skip to office menu Skip to footer
Capital IconMinnesota Legislature

Legislative News and Views - Rep. Todd Lippert (DFL)

Back to profile

Minnesota House advances Health and Human Services budget package with Rep. Lippert legislation

Monday, April 26, 2021

St. Paul, MN – Today, the Minnesota House passed its Health and Human Services Budget aimed at building a better health system for Minnesotans after the COVID-19 pandemic. The budget strengthens our public health systems, addresses health inequities, makes prescription drugs more affordable, and expands coverage for low-income Minnesotans. State Representative Todd Lippert (DFL - Northfield), who serves on the Behavioral Health Policy Division, also authored provisions in the bill. 

“Whether it’s lowering the price of prescription drugs, paving the way for a public option, or delivering resources to those experiencing homelessness, our Health and Human Services Budget is investing in the care and support Minnesotans need to make it through this pandemic and thrive after it ends,” said Rep. Lippert. “I’m especially proud of the provisions to support our Personal Care Assistants. These are the Minnesotans who help older adults and people with disabilities live with dignity and survive from day to day, and this bill would stabilize the PCA workforce by raising their wages now, and support a living wage in the future.”

In addition to the PCA Framework provision, Rep. Lippert is also the author of legislation requiring hospitals to give nine months’ notice of the intent to relocate or close. Other components in the bill include new avenues of support for people with disabilities, programs for older Minnesotans, food support, economic help for struggling families, and assistance for those experiencing mental illness and substance abuse. The budget invests $25 million to address homelessness, including funding for emergency shelters, services, and support grants. 

To help low-income Minnesotans who have struggled during the pandemic, the budget includes a cost of living increase along with a one-time payment of $750 for Minnesotans enrolled in the Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) and increases the eligibility threshold for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

The bill language can be accessed here and a spreadsheet of the investments made in the budget bill can be accessed here. Video of the floor session will be available on House Public Information Services’ YouTube channel.