ST. PAUL - Legislative Democrats want federal permission expand a state-subsidized health insurance program.
Minnesotans who make too much money to qualify for MinnesotaCare could go to the state program for insurance under a bill that would seek federal approval.
Farmers Union is among supporters of the bill since many farmers have difficulty obtaining insurance.
"This bill is a first step in providing relief to Minnesotans who are unable to find affordable options for their health insurance," Sen. Kathy Sheran, D-Mankato, said.
MinnCare would not change for people who now use it, but income guidelines for those who can use the program would rise to 200 percent of the federal poverty level.
