State Senator Scott Jensen (R-Chaska) has been tapped to lead a new Senate committee tasked with developing ideas to make Minnesota health care more affordable. The bipartisan Senate Select Committee on Health Care Consumer Access and Affordability, which met for the first time on July 12, will devote the next nine months to creating a health care reform bill for the 2018 legislative session.

“As a family physician, it’s no secret what my top priority is as a state senator,” said Sen. Jensen. “Last session we took some important steps forward, but there is still much to do. I am humbled that my colleagues chose me for this task, and I’m confident that when session begins next February we’ll be able to propose solid legislation that will make health care better and more affordable for Minnesotans. The committee will take ideas and options from the public health sector, private businesses, the governor, Democrats, and Republicans. Health care is at a crisis stage.”

“Dr. Jensen is one of our most unique members of the Senate,” added Majority Leader Paul Gazelka. “He brings a refreshing perspective and a wealth of expertise to complex health care debates. Always willing to reach across the aisle, Scott has built valuable relationships with his colleagues and diligently works to bring out the best in all of us.”

The following senators have been appointed to serve on the committee:

Sen. Scott Jensen (Chair)
Sen. Julie Rosen (Vice Chair)
Sen. Melissa Wiklund (Ranking DFL member)
Sen. Rich Draheim
Sen. Nick Frentz
Sen. Mary Kiffmeyer
Sen. Matt Klein
Sen. Eric Pratt
Sen. Dan Sparks

Citizens with questions or comments for the committee can contact Sen. Jensen’s office at 651-296-3988.