Continuing Resolution Leaves Minnesota's Health Care Needs Unmet

Statement

Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn.), Congressman Collin Peterson (DFL-Minn.), Congressman Keith Ellison (DFL-Minn.), Congressman Tim Walz (DFL-Minn.), and Congressman Rick Nolan (DFL-Minn.) released the following statement on the proposed continuing resolution being considered today:

"Contrary to claims made by some Republicans, the continuing resolution that the U.S. House will consider today does not do nearly enough to address Minnesota's urgent health care needs.

"While we are encouraged that the legislation includes a six-year reauthorization of the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), we are disappointed that the Republican majority did not include a 10-year reauthorization, which would actually reduce annual deficits. By refusing to agree to a 10-year reauthorization, Republicans are denying Minnesota families the certainty they need and leaving billions of dollars in cost savings on the table.

"Worse still, the legislation does nothing to reauthorize our community health centers, which provide health care to more than 50,000 Minnesotans. We have heard directly from our community health centers that they will now be forced to lay off employees, meaning care will be rationed for Minnesota's most vulnerable people, including expecting mothers and senior citizens.

"Finally, we are disappointed that the Republican majority has not used this legislation to address Medicaid DSH payments, cuts to which are imperiling the financial stability of Minnesota hospitals. And we object to continued stalling on a reauthorization for the Special Diabetes Program, which funds successful diabetes treatment and prevention programs for Native Americans."