Minnesota state representative: "There is no priority in nursing homes"

(Fargo, ND) -- A republican Minnesota State Lawmakers says DFL democrats are not spending enough on long term care for the elderly. 

"There is no priority in nursing homes. There is none whatsoever. I've even been so bold as to ask one on one with the Department of Human Services, are you intending on shutting us all down, what is your plan?" said Representative Deb Kiel.

Kiel says the current plan for the budget includes an overall budget increase of 40 percent while projected funding for long term care facilities shows an increase of .01 percent. 

Kiel says nursing homes are facing a range of struggles including maintaining sufficient staffing. 

She appeared on "What's on Your Mind" on AM 1100 The Flag.