SENATE WEBCAST - Monday, October 3, 2016

Several Republican senators gathered on Monday, October 3, to present their ideas on how to repair Minnesota’s healthcare system.  Last week, the Minnesota Department of Commerce released details outlining health insurance premium increases of over 50 percent in the individual market, affecting five percent of Minnesotans.

The Senate Republican plan is designed to lower premiums and deductibles by restoring a statewide high-risk pool and allowing a tax deduction for individuals and families who do not qualify for group insurance.  Another proposal would allow groups like agricultural cooperatives, fraternal organizations and similar clubs to offer group health insurance.  The members also suggested Minnesotans be allowed to enroll in public health insurance programs like Medical Assistance through their counties instead of through MNsure.