$600M HEALTH FIGHT – Undocumented Surge STUNS!
In the heart of Minnesota’s legislative debate over MinnesotaCare for undocumented immigrants, State Representative Kaohly Vang Her bravely challenged her colleagues to see beyond the numbers and recognize the human stories beneath.
At a Glance
- Applications for free state healthcare by undocumented residents reached 17,400, far exceeding the estimated 5,800.
- Costs surged to over $600 million, much higher than initial projections of $220 million for four years.
- DFL lawmakers argue undocumented residents contribute to the economy, opposing assertions that the expansion incentivizes illegal immigration.
- Minnesota doctors and hospitals support healthcare for the undocumented, citing reduced emergency room visits.
- A bill to eliminate state benefits for undocumented immigrants is under consideration at the Minnesota Legislature.
A Heartfelt Plea
During a crucial session, State Representative Kaohly Vang Her revealed her family’s undocumented status, sparking a conversation around empathy in immigration policy. Her family, fleeing Vietnam, believed they were entering the U.S. legally due to her grandfather’s military service. However, Her’s father had forged their entry documents. Her argued for a humane approach, emphasizing that her family aimed only to survive, not exploit welfare systems. Her’s story is a powerful reminder that behind every undocumented face is a human life with dreams and contributions.
Her called on lawmakers to reconsider their views on illegal immigrants, urging for policies based on understanding and compassion. “What my father did was, one of our uncles worked for USAID, and because his mother had died, my father, as the one processing the paperwork, put my grandmother down as his mother,” said Her. Her’s emotional appeal brought attention to her family’s sacrifices and resilience in the face of adversity.
Escalating Costs and Political Division
The numbers are staggering: applications for MinnesotaCare exceeded expectations, reaching 17,400 against a projected 5,800, with costs skyrocketing above $600 million. The situation has fueled an intense debate, with Republicans like Sen. Jordan Rasmusson asserting, “This program creates an incentive for illegal immigrants to come to Minnesota.”
“This program creates an incentive for illegal immigrants to come to Minnesota.” – Sen. Jordan Rasmusson, R-Fergus Falls.
DFL lawmakers, however, argue that undocumented residents contribute to society, and healthcare provision is a necessary support rather than a handout. DFL Senate Majority Leader Erin Murphy warned that cutting care could lead to higher costs through increased premiums and uncompensated care. The session at the State Capitol in St. Paul highlighted sharp divisions in opinion, with Democrats controlling the Senate and the House being equally split.
Support and Opposition
Healthcare professionals statewide support extending MinnesotaCare to undocumented residents, citing benefits like reduced emergency room visits. The special legislative session focused on this contentious issue, with budget bills being sent to Governor Walz for final approval. Ellie Roth, MPR News producer, noted that a bill to eliminate state benefits for the undocumented remains under discussion.
“What we did two years ago is make sure we add them to our health insurance coverage because we see a need for that. These folks contribute to our economy, they contribute to our society, they are taxpayers.” – Sen. Zaynab Mohamed, DFL-Minneapolis.
As Minnesota grapples with its immigration policies, Her’s courageous stand could inspire a shift towards more empathetic governance. Her closed her appeal stating, “Nobody leaves their country unless they have to leave that country,” invoking a needed sense of compassion amidst the political storm.
