State lawmaker explains proposal to raise sales tax to help HCMC amid financial crisis

State lawmakers have begun to discuss a bill to help address the financial crisis at HCMC. The Hennepin County hospital is the state’s busiest trauma center. It’s also a teaching hospital and part of the healthcare safety net. It treats patients regardless of insurance. The hospital faces a $50 million projected shortfall this year. It slashed programs and positions in January. But Hennepin County commissioners have said that without action from state lawmakers, the hospital could begin closing in June. Lawmakers have responded with a proposal to use sales tax money to help cover the hospital’s costs. During a House taxes committee meeting Thursday, former patients and healthcare providers testified in support of the bill, including Dr. Tom Wyatt, the hospital’s emergency medicine chair.Rep. Danny Nadeau, R-Rogers, is a co-author on the bill and he spoke with guest host Emily Bright about his legislation.