This past week the Senate Finance Committee put together its supplemental budget bill.  As part of that process, over the last few weeks, each budget division has presented their individual finance recommendations, which were then amended and rolled into one final package that will be debated and passed by the full Senate.

One of the budget recommendations that was presented and adopted this week was the Health and Human Services Budget. I’m proud to say the bill they’ve put together is a very positive step forward in terms of support for vulnerable Minnesotans including children and older adults. The bill funds ongoing initiatives to address health crises in Minnesota, refines previously vetted programs, and supports highly-valued programs.

The Senate addresses health issues in several areas, including chemical dependency treatment funding, lack of responsive and supportive services for children and families in the foster care system, limited access and funding for mental health services for vulnerable Minnesotans by increasing the number of beds available to people experiencing a mental health crisis. Together there would be an increase of $43.3 million in funding to support these and other critical programs, providing targeted investment to those who need it most.

In addition to these investments, we are also applying for a federal 1332 waiver which would provide flexibility for many Minnesotans seeking health insurance through MNSure. This waiver would make changes to the open enrollment period, allow people to purchase MNCare coverage, provide 12 months of continuous eligibility in MNCare and Medical Assistance, and make it easier for families to qualify for premium tax credits.

The bill would eliminate estate liens which have been leveraged against some MA recipients, providing Minnesotans piece of mind that their property will remain in their families’ hands. Many older Minnesotans were surprised and distressed when they found their enrollment in a public program would result in an estate lien. The Senate’s proposal would also mitigate federally mandated “spousal impoverishment” guidelines, which can create significant family hardship in order for the ill spouse to continue to receive life-sustaining treatment.

The Senate has worked hard to put together a supplemental budget that provides a balance of targeted spending and tax cuts for hardworking Minnesotans. As it is not a budget year, we are not able to address many of the proposals that were brought forward, but I believe we are building on the success of the past few years and are on firm financial ground with our budget.

If you have questions or concerns about legislation and the session, I encourage you to contact my office at 651- 296-9248 or at sen.dan.sparks@senate.mn.