Saint Paul – Governor Tim Pawlenty today announced the appointment of State Senator Julie Rosen to the Rural Health Advisory Committee (RHAC).

Rosen, of Fairmont, has represented Senate District 24 in the Minnesota State Senate since 2003. As a first-term senator, Rosen earned the distinction of being a leading authority on methamphetamine and other drug-related issues. She continues to work passionately fighting drug use among children and young adults. Along with her work on drug and public safety issues, Rosen is a strong voice for rural job creation and economic development. Rosen is a graduate of Colorado State University with a bachelor of science degree in agronomy. She worked as a marketing executive with both Elanco and American Hoechst prior to being elected to the state senate. Rosen serves on a number of committees including; Capitol Investment, Health and Human Services, Public Safety and Energy, Utilities, Technology and Communications. Rosen is appointed as the minority member of the Minnesota State Senate to fulfill a four-year term that expires January 2, 2012. She replaces former Senator Betsy Wergin on the committee.

The Rural Health Advisory Committee advises the Commissioner of Health and other state agencies on rural health issues. It consists of 15 members appointed by the Governor.