Pawlenty blocks health care reform letter to feds

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Gov. Tim Pawlenty blocked a letter with recommendations for health care reform from going to the federal government. So three of Minnesota's most influential medical groups obtained a copy and sent it themselves

The Star Tribune reports Friday the groups were frustrated by what they see as stonewalling by Pawlenty's office.

The letter to the Department of Health and Human Services contained comments and recommendations from state agencies and comments from stakeholders on health insurance exchanges, where people could shop for policies.

Pawlenty spokesman Bruce Gordon says it wasn't sent because it didn't reflect the governor's position.

The Republican governor, who's considering a run for president, opposes the federal health plan. He's told state agencies to avoid involvement with it.

Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.

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