The Minnesota Board on Aging is very concerned about the president's proposed budget and the health care bill being proposed in Congress. We estimate up to 1.2 million Minnesotans on medical assistance and Minnesota care programs could either lose coverage altogether or have it significantly reduced. It would also impact 35,000 older Minnesotans who each month receive long term services and supports in their homes and community, or in a nursing home. Additionally, health insurance premiums for those persons under the age of 65 would dramatically increase by as much as 20-25 percent.
Also in the budget proposal they would eliminate or severely reduce programs that provide critical in-home services and volunteer opportunities for older Minnesotans. The community service block grant and the senior community service employment program are eliminated. These programs provide invaluable services and supports to over 50,000 older Minnesotans choosing to live in their communities. Also on the chopping block is the Senior Nutrition Program (Meals on Wheels).
Don Samuelson
President, Board on Aging
Brainerd
