Rep. Schomacker’s Health Care Reform Bill Clears First Legislative Hurdle

ST. PAUL, Minn., Jan. 16 -- The Minnesota State House Republican Caucus issued the following news release:

In an effort to assist the millions of residents who have been devastated by our state's current health care system, State Representative Joe Schomacker (R-Luverne) is championing legislation that would provide real solutions to our current problems.

Schomacker's bill recently cleared its first legislative hurdle as it was approved by the Minnesota House Health and Human Services Reform Committee.

"This initiative focuses on reforming access for residents and doctors, competition so Minnesotans have a real choice in health coverage, and transparency for patients," Schomacker said in his testimony on the measure.

The plan provides several improvements to current law designed to build the health insurance market in Minnesota. Reforms included will prevent double dipping, prohibit surprise billing, allow for-profit HMO's to compete in Minnesota, and order an audit to determine how the plan is working. Schomacker noted that many area residents will be pleased about a provision that ensures continuity of health care.

"Most who have called me have described how their local doctor isn't their local doctor anymore due to what their insurance now provides," Schomacker said. "That causes problems if they've been receiving treatment, so this provision will be very beneficial."

Schomacker noted that a separate bill focusing solely on providing health care premium relief to eligible Minnesotans is also making its way through the House committee process.

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