A bill was introduced in the Minnesota Senate today that would require every Minnesotan to have health care coverage by 2011.

SF1689 was introduced by Yvonne Prettner Solon (DFL-Duluth). If passed, it would "require individuals to have minimum health coverage" and would require employers to offer basic health care plans.  

Among the many provisions of the proposed bill is the extension of dependent coverage of nonstudents to 25 years of age, income tax credit for health care costs and deductions for health insurance premiums.

State dollars would be made available to help those unable to afford health care coverage.

According the the proposed bill, "Universal coverage is achieved when:
(1) every Minnesotan has access to a full range of quality health care services;
(2) every Minnesotan is able to obtain affordable health coverage which pays for the full range of services, including preventive and primary care; and
(3) every Minnesotan pays into the health care system according to that person's ability."

SOUND OFF: What do you think of this proposed legislation?