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Senators debate options and timeline for Hennepin County Medical Center funding amid committee hearing
Summary
Senators used the hearing to press for a separate discussion of Hennepin County Medical Center's financial crisis; Sen. Abeler proposed exploring tax and hospital rebasing options, and members agreed to schedule a focused hearing on potential solutions.
During consideration of unrelated bills, Sen. Abeler raised Hennepin County Medical Center’s (HCMC) financial situation and offered an amendment proposing suspension of a surcharge to create a funding pot, hospital rebasing and possible regulatory waivers. He described the proposal as a way to rapidly produce resources for the hospital while recognizing the complexity of the options.
Committee members across the aisle said the topic required more time and a dedicated hearing. Sen. Koran asked why the issue should matter statewide and emphasized the need to present a coherent plan to Minnesotans; Sen. Utke and others urged an expedited follow-up because of the hospital's pressing needs. Chair Wiklund committed to scheduling a hearing and said a bill addressing HCMC funding would be introduced and aired in committee soon.
Senators discussed governance, accountability and the potential scale of state assistance, with members noting the rescue would likely require hundreds of millions of dollars and raising questions about oversight and feasibility. Sen. Abeler withdrew the amendment but said the exchange was intended to kick-start a broader conversation. The committee agreed to hold a more focused discussion and to consider policy and funding options in the coming days.
