Overview
- House File 4841, taken up Tuesday in the House Taxes Committee, would raise Hennepin County’s sales tax from 0.15% to 0.75% to support Hennepin County Medical Center.
- Sponsors say the higher levy would bring in about $253 million each year for Hennepin Healthcare’s labor, supplies, equipment and facility needs.
- The bill also creates a $300 million state hospital stabilization fund in 2027 with roughly half intended for HCMC and the rest for other Minnesota hospitals.
- Republican lawmakers object to a tax hike in a tied House and some urge using money reserved for the Blue Line light‑rail extension, while others press for a detailed spending plan before any vote.
- The Senate passed a separate $150 million lifeline last week as talks with House leaders and the governor continue, with urgency rising over HCMC’s large uncompensated‑care losses and staff attrition.