In recognition of her work in support of health innovation and medical technology, Sen. Carla Nelson (R-Rochester) was presented with the Medical Alley Association’s “Spirit of the Alley” award at their annual meeting on Thursday. Sen. Nelson joined four other industry leaders in receiving this year’s award, which is given to individuals who have gone above and beyond in their support of Minnesota’s Medical Alley Association. The association represents nearly 650 companies involved in Minnesota’s medical health technology.
“It is a tremendous honor to receive the Spirit of the Alley award from Medical Alley, which represents one of the top health innovation clusters in the nation,” said Sen. Nelson. “Our state is and must remain a leader in health technology, health innovation and biotechnology.”
In her time as a legislator, Sen. Nelson has been a champion for innovation, research and health technology. This session, she authored legislation to better foster growth in research and development in Minnesota by updating how qualifying research expenses are determined for the R&D tax credit and allowing for an alternative simplified credit. She also authored legislation that would allow Minnesotans to benefit from groundbreaking advances in the science and biotechnology industry by biologic and biosimilar treatments.
“Sen. Nelson has been a steadfast supporter of Minnesota’s Medical Alley. She has worked this session to advance the research and development tax credit, as well as modernizing biologics and biosimliars language in state statue,” said Shaye Mandle, president and CEO of Medical Alley Association.
“Not only does this industry save and improve lives, it also brings skilled jobs and immense economic value to our state,” Sen. Nelson continued. “I will not relent in my efforts to keep Minnesota the world’s epicenter in medical health technology.”
Sen. Nelson is in her third term representing Senate District 26, which includes communities in Olmsted County. She also serves as chairwoman of the Senate E-12 Finance Committee.