 Governor Walz convened a roundtable discussion with state leaders and health care experts to address the rising cost of health insurance in Minnesota. The discussion focused on the impacts of President Trump’s signature legislation, the “Big Beautiful Bill,” recently passed by the Republican-led Congress, and how its provisions are expected to raise health care costs across the state starting on January 1, 2026.
“Minnesota is home to some of the best health care systems in the world – something that we’re proud of. But Republican leadership in Washington is putting the affordability and reliability of that care at risk,” said Governor Walz. “President Trump’s so-called ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ is driving up health insurance costs and threatening the stability of our health care system. We are going to keep fighting to protect affordability, preserve access, and make sure Minnesotans can receive the care they need without breaking the bank.”
Panelists highlighted how Minnesotans are likely to face steep premium increases and reduced access to coverage, with rural communities and small businesses expected to feel a disproportionate impact. Without federal action, enhanced premium tax credits are set to expire, raising health care costs for middle-class Minnesotans by an average of $2,000 per year.
 On Thursday, Governor Walz attended Lifecore Biomedical's 60th anniversary celebration in Chaska. And on Friday, Governor Walz attended the groundbreaking ceremony for Niron Magnetics' 1,500-ton permanent magnet manufacturing facility in Sartell.
“From small businesses to Fortune 500 companies, we’re focused on maintaining our record as a top state for business,” said Governor Walz. “By telling the stories of companies who’ve found success in our state, we’re encouraging other businesses to look to Minnesota to grow and invest.”
 Last week, Governor Walz announced that Minnesota schools served over 151 million free meals to students through the Minnesota Free School Meals Program in its second year, saving families an average of $1,000 per student per year.
“As a former teacher, I know just how important it is for kids to show up to school ready to learn,” said Governor Walz. “Giving every child a meal at school allows those students to be healthy and prepared for the classroom, but it also helps families manage their budgets and morning routines. Students should be able to focus on the classroom, not on where their next meal will come from. ”
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