Legislative Update: 1/23/13

• Governor Dayton’s budget proposal dominated the headlines and committee hearings at the Capitol this week. In addition to raising additional revenue via a higher income tax on high earners and an expansion of the sales tax (coupled with a lower rate), the proposal contained a number of items noteworthy for the MN-AAP. The proposal calls for an increased tobacco tax, expanded newborn screening program, increased funding for school-linked mental health services, and renewed investment in the physician workforce via MERC. The Governor’s budget proposal only serves as a starting point in crafting a final budget for the state; legislators will craft their own proposal in the months to come.
• The MinneMinds coalition held it’s official kick-off event at the State Capitol on January 14. The group, of which the MN-AAP is a member, is a collection of over forty nonprofits, educators, business, unions, parents and religious groups. MinneMinds is calling for an expanded scholarship program to allow low income 3 and 4 year olds access to high quality early childhood education. Coalition members were joined at the launch by legislative leaders from key House and Senate committees.
• Mark your calendars for the 2013 Peds Day at the Capitol! Set for February 2013, it’s a wonderful opportunity to visit with fellow pediatricians, hear from legislative leaders, and meet your elected officials. Register here!