MNAAP employs a part-time lobbyist to monitor pediatric-related discussions at the Capitol. Here’s a summary of what’s happening at the Capitol from MNAAP Lobbyist Eric Dick as of May 3, 2013.
- Key MNAAP legislative priorities continue to make their way thought the Legislature as we approach the constitutionally mandated adjournment date of May 20. Anti-bullying legislation is set to be heard by the full House soon, and its last Senate committee stops loom. Both newborn screening program protections and investment in early education scholarships have passed both bodies and are being negotiated within conference committees of House and Senate members.
- A rise in the tobacco tax is in a good position to go forward this year. The tax bills passed by the House and Senate and proposed by Governor Dayton have all included a hike in the tax, though to varying degrees. Public health research has made clear that the single most effective way to decrease youth tobacco use is to raise the price, and that prospect is becoming more likely.
