House GOP Advocate to Limit Access to MinnesotaCare for Undocumented Non-citizens

April 24, 2025

At a press event on April 21, Republican leaders proposed limiting access to MinnesotaCare for undocumented Minnesotans.   

They argued that applications by undocumented individuals for MinnesotaCare, the state’s health coverage program for low-income Minnesotans, far exceeded initial projections.  

According to nonpartisan legislative analysts, when the bill passed in 2023, about 7,800 new enrollees were expected in the program. At the event, Republicans shared that actual enrollment exceeded these projections, with more than 17,000 people enrolled in the first three months, and associated costs that may exceed $450 million over the next four years 

“We should not be surprised by this dramatic increase because this program creates an incentive for illegal immigrants to come here to Minnesota,” said Sen. Jordan Rasmusson (R – Fergus Falls) at the event. 

Participants at the event pointed to HF10 (Schultz, R – Elmdale Township) as the solution. The bill would remove MinnesotaCare eligibility for Minnesotans with undocumented status. Proponents argue it would save about $100 million per year from the state’s general fund.  

The MMA opposes this bill. In a letter from a previous committee hearing on HF10, the MMA stated that “by ensuring coverage of all Minnesotans, regardless of immigration status, we reduce the total number of emergency room visits, reduce rates of untreated chronic conditions, and most importantly, help ensure that Minnesota communities are healthier.” 

The letter went on to state that “the MMA is committed to ensuring that all Minnesota patients, regardless of immigration status, have access to safe, timely, and high-quality health care,” and that “Minnesota’s physicians see the immense value in providing access to care for those with undocumented status through MinnesotaCare.”   

Along with the MMA, the Minnesota Hospital Association, the Minnesota Council of Health Plans and the Minnesota Catholic Conference, also oppose the bill. 

The status of HF10 is uncertain. Negotiations over the House health omnibus bill continue.