Democrats are pooh-poohing Senate Republicans’ efforts at health care reform. G-O-P leaders stood behind a sign reading “Promises Made. Promises Kept” after the Senate passed bills today (Thurs) to clarify hospital bills, regulate pharmacy benefit managers and allow primary care agreements directly between patients and providers. Republican leaders say the measures are significant moves in the battle to lower health care costs. Democrats respond Governor Tim Walz has proposed expanding MinnesotaCare so more Minnesotans can benefit from reduced costs. Republicans warn that Walz wants to move Minnesota toward government-run health care.