At the Capitol: Hero Pay Bonuses for LTC Workers Included in Budget Deal

Posted on June 23, 2021 by Matt Steele

As lawmakers work to complete their work to agree upon a two-year budget before July 1, legislative leaders announced an agreement to allocate $250 million for Hero Pay bonuses for frontline workers during the pandemic.

Here is what you need to know about what is happening at the capitol this week:

Where things are
Since last week, only two budget bills have been sent to Governor Walz's desk to sign into law, Legacy and Agriculture, leaving much of the budget to be resolved. The Health and Human Services area of the budget continues to be the most significant hurdle to pass. However, we have heard that the lawmakers are close to an agreement on the overall bill. Additionally, it was announced on Tuesday by Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka that Hero Pay will be included in the final budget, with $250 million for frontline workers from multiple industries, including long-term care.

While the specific details for how the State will allocate the money have not yet been released, we know that long-term care workers will be included among those that will receive a bonus. A small group of lawmakers will convene in the upcoming months to decide who will receive bonuses. However, the legislation includes a line-item that ensures long-term care workers will be included. We are thankful lawmakers have recognized the dedication amongst those in our field and look forward to conversations to help work through the details of Hero Pay bonuses, such as how much each person will receive and when they will receive it.

Where things are going
Legislators and the Governor have one week to resolve any remaining fiscal and policy differences to pass a two-year budget by July 1 to avoid a state government shutdown. Legislative leadership and the governor remain optimistic that they will reach a consensus and avoid a shutdown. However, they have acknowledged that the timeline will be tight. As we enter the final days of the special session, we will be monitoring how any last-minute legislative changes impact the long-term care space.

What to Watch
The most significant piece of the budget for long-term care will be Health and Human Services. While details are still not known yet about the nature of the final bill, we encourage you to make your voice heard to support long-term care and our state seniors. We are happy to support your advocacy in whatever ways we can. If you would like help setting up a meeting, please contact Matt Steele at msteele@leadingagemn.org or call 651-659-1430.