Hello from St. Paul,
Lawmakers recently tried to examine a damning report from Optum that estimates up to 90% of autism service claims submitted to the state may be fraudulent. This process became quite difficult after the Walz administration decided to black out nearly 90% of the analysis.
The portions that were unredacted are appalling. In just five years, the number of autism service providers billing the state exploded from 41 to 328. Some of these providers lacked even the most basic identifying information — no website, no phone number — yet were routinely submitting claims to the State of Minnesota and receiving taxpayer funds. The amount billed per recipient increased 3000% over five years.
In our judiciary finance committee, we heard a bill that would force the human services commissioner to release the initial Optum report unredacted to lawmakers. An amendment to the bill was approved that changes the bill somewhat, allowing only members of the legislative human services committee to view the report, but they would not be able to publicize its contents. I will keep you updated on its progress.
PAID FAMILY MEDICAL LEAVE
We also heard from the Minnesota courts system which is looking for additional funding to help it pay for the new Paid Family Medical Leave program in Minnesota.
A number of small business owners have reached out to me and said this program could compel them to permanently close their doors. Not only are the costs horrific, but it potentially forces them to be without an employee for up to 20 weeks. I have a feeling we are going to be hearing a lot more about Paid Family Medical Leave before session ends.
ELIMINATING TAXES ON TIPS AND OVERTIME
One of the ways we can help families keep more of what they earn is to approve federal tax conformity and eliminate the taxes leveled on a worker’s tips and overtime.
Those earning tips and overtime are overwhelmingly low to middle-income earners who are picking up extra shifts to afford everyday costs.
These proposals were heard in the House taxes committee on Tuesday, and I am hopeful we will see positive action on them in the weeks ahead.
LOCAL VISITS
This week, I met with board members from Athens and Linwood Townships who were in St. Paul taking part in Township Day at the Capitol.
I also had a nice visit with Mitch with Oak Ridge Auto Body in East Bethel regarding concerns about timely communication and transparency with insurance companies.
Finally, the Humane Society’s annual Puppy Day at the Capitol took place on Thursday! My granddaughter loved petting the puppies!
