Purpose of the Bill

This bill is designed to expand access to MinnesotaCare, a health coverage program for low-income residents, by broadening eligibility and establishing a new premium scale for those who enroll under the expansion.

Main Provisions

• Eligibility Expansion: The bill proposes to expand who can enroll in MinnesotaCare by changing eligibility requirements. This could allow more people, including those with higher incomes than previously covered, to access the program.
• Premium Scale: A new scale for premiums will be established specifically for those enrolling under the expanded criteria. This means that monthly payments for coverage could vary based on income or other factors.
• Section 1332 Waiver: The commissioner of commerce is instructed to seek a section 1332 waiver from the federal government. This waiver allows the state to modify provisions of the Affordable Care Act to better fit local needs, potentially providing more flexibility in how MinnesotaCare is administered.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Amendments to Statutes: Several Minnesota Statutes will be amended to incorporate these changes. This includes adding new subdivisions and proposing new codes in existing chapters to define and implement MinnesotaCare expansion.
• Appropriation of Funds: The bill includes the provision to appropriate funds necessary for implementing the expansion and engaging in activities related to the section 1332 waiver.

Relevant Terms

MinnesotaCare, health coverage, eligibility expansion, premium scale, section 1332 waiver, Affordable Care Act, Minnesota Statutes, low-income residents.