Wal-Mart fights benefits disclosure in Minnesota

[Spike from MN]

Fresh off the embarrassment in WI last week when it was revealed that Wal-Mart employees are the single largest group of recipients of BadgerCare, Wal-Mart execs are trying to make sure that Minnesotans don't discover a similar pattern here with regard to MinnesotaCare. Gee, no real surprise there.

"Wal-Mart Stores Inc. does not want Minnesotans to know how many of its workers in this state receive public health care assistance.

The world's largest retailer has denounced as a public-relations ploy legislation -- which some state legislators have dubbed the "anti-Wal-Mart bill" -- that would create a public list of companies whose workers are enrolled in MinnesotaCare and other government-funded health care programs.

The Bentonville, Ark.-based retail giant recently sent two executives to St. Paul to lobby against the bill, which the Legislature may vote on in special session this month. Wal-Mart also sent a two-page letter describing its health care benefits to every legislator in the state."

http://www.startribune.com/stories/535/5435075.html

Yet another reason to not shop at Wal-Mart. Then again, I didn't need another reason because I wouldn't give them my money regardless but it's nice to know that the word is getting out about the evils of Wal-Mart.

[katinmn]

1. I was told Wal-Mart hands out welfare apps along with job applications

If this is true, and I believe it is, they are even more reprehensible than I originally thought. They apparently save about $6,000 per employee on health and other expenditures that employers typically cover, when the state picks up the tab.

I'm thinking of going undercover and applying for a job.

Anyone want to join me?

[GAspnes]

2. Sure. Might be fun.

Besides, my contract is up soon. I might need the job.

[katinmn]

3. Wouldn't it make a geat article?

I would like to hear first-hand how they go about duping the state out of taxpayer's money.