Neighbors,
We have legislative deadlines coming up, so lately we have focused on moving bills through the committee process.
In the last two weeks we have received a new report on the elder abuse scandal at Minnesota’s senior facilities, unveiled our plan to address the scandal, and introduced a new proposal requiring able-bodied recipients of Medical Assistance to work.
You can read more about those items and other recent events below. As always, please feel free to contact me if you have any questions!
Sincerely,
Medical Assistance Work Requirements
The Senate Republicans are working on reforming Minnesota’s Medical Assistance program with a simple work requirement for able-bodied individuals. We want to help people achieve their potential. Click the image below to watch my brief video explaining our plan.
Senator Benson talks about Medical Assistance work requirements
The Minnesota Senate Republican Caucus is working on reforming Minnesota’s Medical Assistance program with a simple work requirement for able-bodied individuals. We want to help people achieve their potential.
Posted by Senator Michelle Benson on Wednesday, March 14, 2018
Damning report about Office of Health Facility Complaints
In a blistering new report on Minnesota’s Office of Health Facility Complaints (OHFC), the office of the Legislative Auditor determined that the agency has failed in its mission to adequately protect the elderly and vulnerable residents of Minnesota’s senior care facilities.
Protecting the seniors and vulnerable Minnesotans
After months of conversations with stakeholders, families, and officials, this week we unveiled our proposal to address the elder abuse scandal. The Elder Care and Vulnerable Adult Protection Act has strict abuse prevention measures, stronger oversight, a better complaint process, consumer protections, and much more.
If you would like to watch Republicans introduce this bill, click here: https://www.mnsenaterepublicans.com/republicans-take-action-to-protect-elderly-minnesotans-with-the-elder-care-and-vulnerable-adult-protection-act/
Preventing the next MNLARS
The failed rollouts of MNsure and MNLARs have cost taxpayers millions, but both were entirely preventable. Rather than giving Minnesota’s IT agency, MN.IT, every project no-questions-asked, Senate Republicans have a better way.
Last week we introduced a plan to overhaul the entire process. Under our proposal, each project would go through a competitive bidding process. Each agency could then select the best company for the job, save taxpayers money, and – just as important – there would be a clear line of accountability. If project goals aren’t being met, we will know exactly who to hold responsible.
Read more about our plan here: https://www.mnsenaterepublicans.com/after-dmv-debacle-senate-republicans-propose-major-changes-to-minnesotas-information-technology-agency/
The link between Sex Trafficking and Pornography
Last week the Senate Judiciary Committee heard Senate File 2554. This is my bill that aims to study the strong link between pornography and sex trafficking, including how pornography contributes to demand, helps groom and train victims, and increases traffickers’ revenue.
Lori Paul and Terry Forliti of Breaking Free, and Sergeant Grant Snyder of the Special Crimes Division’s Human Trafficking Team provided important, compelling testimony in support of this bill.
You can watch the presentation at this link. Testimony begins at 32:30: http://mnsenate.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?view_id=1&clip_id=2311
