Legislative Update: 2/18/11

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Nearly 100 Pediatricians Visit the Capitol

On February 15, nearly 100 pediatricians and pediatric residents from around the state gathered at the Capitol to hear from key legislators and meet with legislators from their district. They communicated MN-AAP’s legislative priorities for 2011: the importance of access to care and early brain development.

State Budget Action Continues

On February 15, Governor Dayton took the first step in moving the state toward its biennial budget plan when he announced his budget proposal.  The plan relies heavily on increased revenue from the wealthiest Minnesotans as well as significant cuts.  The Governor’s plan faces a tough road in the GOP-controlled legislature.  Governor Dayton also vetoed the Republican’s “Phase One” budget balancing bill.  Their proposal would have shaved nearly $1B off the $6.2 budget deficit through cuts to local government aid, higher education, and HHS.

Federal Health Care Sparks Debate

The 2010 federal health care reforms continued to be a source of great debate at the State Capitol, with a number of efforts to slow or stop the initiative going forward.  One proposal seeks to require the state’s Attorney General to join other states’ efforts to block the federal bill, while another plan would prohibit the use of state funds to implement the federal reforms until its constitutionality is affirmed.  While he has not threatened a veto, such bills are unlikely to find favor with Governor Dayton.

Annual Sponsors

Children's Minnesota
Gillette Children's
Hennepin Healthcare
University of Minnesota Health
Essentia Health
Mayo Clinic
Shriners Healthcare for Children-Twin Cities