House Committee Hears Legislation to Support Hennepin Healthcare System

April 9, 2026

On April 9, the House Taxes Committee heard legislation focused on supporting the financial stability and ongoing operations of Hennepin Healthcare. 

HF 4841 (Agbaje, DFL – Minneapolis) extends and increases an existing Hennepin County sales tax (originally implemented to fund Target Field) and redirects the revenue to support Hennepin Healthcare. The current 0.15% “ballpark tax” is nearing sunset as stadium debt is paid off earlier than expected. The proposal would increase the tax (potentially up to 1%) and redirect upwards of $350 million to stabilizing hospital operations. 

Supporters of the bill emphasized that Hennepin Healthcare serves a disproportionate share of uninsured and underinsured patients and plays a central role in ensuring access to care regardless of ability to pay. Leveraging an existing funding stream allows the state to preserve this safety-net function without relying solely on property taxes or other funding sources. 

The MMA submitted a letter of support for HF 4841, highlighting the system’s essential role in patient care, emergency services, and physician training. The MMA noted that maintaining Hennepin Healthcare’s capacity is critical not only for patients in the Twin Cities, but also for those across Greater Minnesota who rely on timely access to specialized care. 

In 2024, Hennepin Healthcare absorbed $104 million in uncompensated care, including $24 million for patients from outside Hennepin County. Federal policy changes, including House Resolution 1, are also projected to add to financial strains, potentially resulting in an estimated $1.7 billion in losses over the next 10 years.