Senator Paul Gazelka (R-Nisswa) appointed Senator Scott Jensen (R-Chaska) as Chair of the Senate Select Committee on Health Care Consumer Access and Affordability in 2017. Since then, the committee has developed policy driven by real ideas from Minnesotans. Senator Jensen and Senator Matt Klein (DFL-Mendota Heights) held a press conference today to share some of their emerging proposals:

• Pharmacy Affordability Commission (SF353/HF1668)
• Mental Health Access (SF2252/HF2242)
• Premium Based Tax Credits (SF352/HF730)

“It’s all about the patients,” said Senator Jensen. “I see people in my clinic every day who need a break. We have to hold the pharmaceutical companies accountable so patients can have access to the care they need without the excessive financial burden.”

One of committee’s specific interests is mental health care.

“Mental health is not an emerging issue,” Senator Jensen added. “We are behind. Suicide rates are increasing, and we need to change our approach and take this seriously. Mental health care is not a luxury, it’s a necessity.”

The committee will continue to work on finalizing proposals over the next few months.