On February
20, Minnesotans will join in solidarity at the state capitol for Pro-Choice
Lobby Day. Supporters will rally together and meet with legislators to
ensure that women’s healthcare remains a priority for a healthy Minnesota.
And this year’s lobby day could not be more critical, as the 2013 legislature will design the implementation of the Affordable Care Act’s health insurance exchange – the online marketplace where consumers can shop for health insurance. The Minnesota Insurance Marketplace Act was introduced in early January and must be completely hammered out and signed by Governor Mark Dayton by the end of March.
February 20 marks the day where Minnesotans join the discussion. Under the healthcare exchange, thousands of people who are currently without health insurance will be able to shop around for a plan that’s best for them. It is imperative that supporters of women’s health ensure that every aspect of their healthcare is included in the exchange, from well woman visits and cancer screenings to contraception coverage and abortion care.
Pro-Choice Lobby Day will feature a Lobby 101 exercise, where you’ll get a quick training from an experienced Lobby Coach on what it’s like to visit with your representatives. After which, you’ll be invited to attend brief educational breakout sessions designed to inform you on a specific issue, give you a new perspective, and help develop the skills to talk about women’s reproductive rights with the people around you.
But remember, you do not need to be an experienced lobbyist, great public speaker or healthcare professional to attend this event or to have your voice heard. Pro-Choice Lobby Day is all about sharing your thoughts with your legislator and learning how the legislative process works.
The event is free and open to the public. Registration is required, so do so here.
- by Austin, Public Affairs Intern, Planned Parenthood Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota
