Minn. panels to examine health care compromise

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Two Minnesota legislative panels take a closer look Tuesday at a compromise that will preserve a government health plan for the very poor.

Democratic lawmakers and Republican Gov. Tim Pawlenty struck a deal last week to maintain coverage for more than 30,000 adults covered by the General Assistance Medical Care program.

A Senate health and welfare spending panel takes public testimony on the compromise.

Later Tuesday, a similar House committee considers the details and finances of the deal.

The agreement revolves around giving safety-net hospitals lump-sum payments to cover care for the affected patients, including many who are homeless, veterans, mentally ill or addicted to drugs or alcohol.