Minnesota Senate Bill SF2064

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/27/23
• Refer: 2/27/23

Caption

Marketing and reduction of stop loss costs of an agricultural cooperative association health plan appropriation

Impact

If enacted, SF2064 could significantly affect the insurance landscape for agricultural cooperative associations in Minnesota. The focus on reducing stop loss costs is expected to make health insurance more affordable for farmers and small agricultural businesses, thus potentially enhancing their financial security and access to health care services. The marketing efforts supported by this bill aim to increase enrollment in the plan, which may help stabilize costs and expand coverage in a demographic that often faces barriers to affordable health insurance.

Summary

SF2064 is a legislative bill aimed at the appropriations for the marketing and reduction of stop loss costs associated with an agricultural cooperative association health plan. The bill proposes an appropriation of $4.5 million from the general fund to the commissioner of commerce, which is earmarked for a comprehensive grant. Of this total, $1.5 million is allocated for marketing and education efforts to enhance awareness of the health plan, while $3 million focuses on lowering premium rates for members and increasing enrollment, especially among at-risk populations by diminishing the health plan's stop loss costs.

Contention

Discussions surrounding SF2064 might reveal various points of contention, particularly regarding funding priorities in the state budget. Supporters of the bill may argue that this investment is crucial for maintaining agricultural health and promoting public health in rural communities. However, critics may raise concerns about the allocation of general funds towards a specific group and may question whether these funds might be better utilized in broader healthcare initiatives that serve a wider audience. Overall, the discussions are likely to reflect broader themes of resource distribution and the particular needs of agricultural sectors.