Obama's Minnesota legacy

January 8, 2017 at 4:04AM

From a health care overhaul to student-debt relief, President Obama's policies had a significant impact on the lives of many Minnesotans.

Health care

Minnesota was an early adopter of Obama's health care overhaul, bringing the number of uninsured residents in the state to an all-time low. But it also brought soaring health insurance rates.

Environment

The administration blocked development of Twin Metals' proposed copper and nickel mine near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and took steps to ban mining in a larger area.

Transportation

The Obama's administration's new transportation spending included money that helped pay for light-rail in the Twin Cities and the restoration of the Union Depot in St. Paul.

Health

Obama ensured that school lunches are healthier, tobacco manufacturers can't market "light" cigarettes and fast-food restaurants are required to post nutrition information.

Student loans

Obama's overhaul of college lending will continue to have a huge impact for borrowers, particularly in a state where residents rank near the top nationally in student debt load.

Education

The president signed a massive education overhaul that gives local officials more control of schools and the ability to decide for themselves how to gauge whether students are really learning.

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