Improving and Reforming Health and Human Services

For more than a decade, lawmakers from both political parties have stressed the need to curb the growing cost of assisting vulnerable and disadvantaged Minnesotans. During that time, state funding for health and human services has continued to inch upward, largely due to a growing state population and the ongoing pressure on many state and county programs. Commissioner Tony Lourey, a former Senator who is widely respected for his work in this field, joins Capitol Report moderator Shannon Loehrke to review the completed work of Governor Tim Walz and state lawmakers to support the most vulnerable Minnesotans while containing costs.

Senator Jim Abeler, as chair of the Human Services Reform Committee, has been fighting for ways to improve assistance for those in need while making efficient use of taxpayer dollars. He joins Shannon to present highlights and challenges facing efficient use of state dollars as lawmakers work to bring integrity to the various public assistance programs.