Senate Health and Human Services Chair Michelle Benson (R-Ham Lake) issued the following statement on the re-appointment of Commissioner Jan Malcom to the Department of Health and the appointment of Senator Tony Lourey as commissioner of the Department of Human Services.

“Having worked with Commissioner Malcolm and Senator Lourey for several years now, I can attest to their knowledge and commitment to serving Minnesotans. Commissioner Malcolm will bring important continuity as the Office of Health Facility Complaints undergoes significant and much-needed reform, and Senator Lourey possess a deep understanding of DHS functions that will be invaluable to Gov. Walz as he prepares his first budget. I look forward to having more comprehensive discussions about their respective visions during the confirmation process.”