The health and human services policy conference committee has finalized a comprehensive bill addressing a range of critical issues, including medical assistance, health insurance, mental health, pharmacies, ambulance service personnel, and emergency medical responders. The report, sponsored by Rep. Tina Liebling (DFL-Rochester) and Sen. Melissa Wiklund (DFL-Bloomington), awaits gubernatorial action.
The agreement, encapsulated in HF4571/SF4699*, was included in the broader HF5247, which both legislative bodies passed late Sunday.
Key Provisions:
Insurance Coverage:
Ensures insurance providers cover abortions.
Mandates coverage for amino acid-based infant formula.
Rural Medical Assistance:
Development of a county-administered rural medical assistance model.
Creation of a detailed plan to enhance rural healthcare services.
Organic Composting:
Legalization of organic composting of human remains at licensed facilities.
Rep. Tina Liebling expressed enthusiasm about the bill’s potential impact: “I am very excited about this bill.”
Financial Overview:
Fiscal Year 2025: Allocates $28.2 million from the General Fund.
Reappropriation: $23.89 million reappropriated from fiscal year 2024 allocations.
Net Spending: $4.29 million.
Biennial Spending for 2026-27: Nearly $4.78 million additional funds anticipated.
This policy package marks a significant step towards enhancing health services and support mechanisms across various sectors, aiming to improve access and quality of care for all residents.
