Minnesota Session Laws - 2020, 1st Special Session

CHAPTER 2--H.F.No. 11

An act

relating to human services; modifying provisions relating to child care, foster care, disability services, community supports, civil commitment, maltreatment of minors, child protection, and child support; expanding definition of providers for child care assistance program; requiring students in foster care who change schools to be enrolled within seven days; requiring responsible social services agencies to initiate and facilitate phone calls between parents and foster care providers for children in out-of-home placement; requiring responsible social services agencies to coordinate prenatal alcohol exposure screenings for children in foster care; directing the commissioner of human services to modify a report and develop training; modifying provisions relating to child care services grants; clarifying commissioner authority to waive child care assistance program provider requirements during declared disaster; modifying family day care training requirements; requiring local agencies to use a universal form to process family day care variance requests and post variance policies publicly; modifying background study requirements for guardians and conservators; modifying the definition of supervision in child care center settings; extending sunset for Cultural and Ethnic Communities Leadership Council; extending the corporate adult foster care moratorium exception for a fifth bed until 2020; modifying timelines for intensive support service planning; permitting delegation of competency evaluations of direct support staff; modifying the training requirements for direct support staff providing licensed home and community-based services; codifying an existing grant program for fetal alcohol disorder prevention activities; codifying existing consumer-directed community supports laws; clarifying the excess income standard for medical assistance; extending end date for first three years of life demonstration project; permitting certain advanced practice registered nurses and physician assistants to order home health services under medical assistance; codifying existing session law governing consumer-directed community supports; modifying provisions regarding post-arrest community-based service coordination; birth to age eight pilot project participation requirements; eliminating requirement to involve state medical review agent in determination and documentation of medically necessary psychiatric residential treatment facility services; requiring establishment of per diem rate per provider of youth psychiatric residential treatment services; permitting facilities or licensed professionals to submit billing for arranged services; changing definition relating to children's mental health crisis response services; modifying intensive rehabilitative mental health services requirements and provider standards; establishing state policy regarding services offered to people with disabilities; modifying existing direction to the commissioner of human services regarding proposing changes to the home and community-based waivers; modifying requirements for service planning for home and community-based services; restoring a notice requirement when MnCHOICES assessments are required for personal care assistance services; modifying definitions, requirements, and eligibility for long-term care consultation services; modifying case management requirements for individuals receiving services through the home and community-based services waivers; modifying the definition of community-living setting; modifying provisions regarding medical assistance covered services for certified community behavioral health clinics and officer-involved community-based care coordination; modifying eligibility for children's mental health respite grants; removing certain categories from being exempt from foster care initial license moratorium; modifying background study provisions related to child foster care, children's residential facilities, foster residence settings, and housing support; modifying provisions relating to home and community-based services; modifying provisions governing state-operated community-based services environment and safety; clarifying circumstances for termination of state-operated services for individuals with complex behavioral needs; removing provision limiting medical assistance coverage for intensive mental health outpatient treatment to adults; modifying provisions relating to withdrawal management, substance use disorder, housing support, and general assistance programs; authorizing correction of housing support payments; modifying definition of qualified professional for purposes of applying for housing support and general assistance; allowing minor consent to homeless and sexually exploited youth services under specified circumstances; authorizing imposition of fine for repeat violations of chemical dependency or substance abuse disorder treatment program requirements; modifying provisions relating to foster care out-of-home and qualified residential treatment program placements; directing commissioner of human services to consider continuous licenses for family day care providers; instructing the revisor of statutes to modify references to the Disability Linkage Line; modifying provisions governing civil commitment; modifying the procedure for recreational license suspension and reinstatement; modifying child welfare provisions; reorganizing and clarifying sections regarding child maltreatment and neglect; authorizing engagement services pilot project; requiring reports;

amending Minnesota Statutes 2018, sections 13.32, subdivision 3; 13.3805, subdivision 3; 13.43, subdivision 14; 13.82, subdivisions 8, 9, 17; 13.821; 13.84, subdivision 9; 13.871, subdivision 6; 13.88; 119B.21; 119B.26; 120B.22, subdivision 2; 125A.0942, subdivision 4; 135A.15, subdivision 10; 144.225, subdivision 2b; 144.343, subdivision 4; 144.7065, subdivision 10; 144.7068; 144A.472, subdivision 1; 144A.479, subdivision 6; 144A.4796, subdivision 6; 144H.16, subdivision 1; 144H.18, subdivision 3; 145.902, subdivision 3; 145.952, subdivision 2; 146A.025; 148E.240, subdivision 7; 148F.13, subdivision 12; 148F.205, subdivision 1; 153B.70; 214.103, subdivision 8; 214.104; 245.4871, by adding a subdivision; 245.4885, subdivision 1; 245.8261, subdivision 9; 245A.02, subdivision 2c; 245A.04, subdivisions 5, 9; 245A.06, subdivision 8; 245A.07, subdivision 5; 245A.08, subdivision 2a; 245A.085; 245A.11, subdivisions 2a, 7b; 245A.50, as amended; 245C.02, subdivision 5, by adding subdivisions; 245C.03, by adding a subdivision; 245C.04, subdivision 1, as amended, by adding a subdivision; 245C.05, subdivision 6; 245C.10, by adding subdivisions; 245C.14, by adding a subdivision; 245C.15, subdivision 4; 245C.16, subdivisions 1, 2; 245C.17, subdivisions 1, 3, by adding a subdivision; 245C.18; 245C.21, subdivision 2; 245C.24, subdivision 4; 245C.25; 245C.27, subdivisions 1, 2; 245C.28, subdivision 1; 245C.29, subdivision 1; 245C.31, subdivision 1; 245C.32, subdivision 2; 245D.02, subdivision 11, as amended, by adding a subdivision; 245D.04, subdivision 3; 245D.06, subdivisions 1, 2, 6; 245D.071, subdivision 3; 245D.081, subdivision 2; 245D.09, subdivisions 4, 4a; 245D.10, subdivision 3a; 245D.32, subdivision 5; 245F.02, subdivisions 7, 14; 245F.04, subdivision 1; 245F.06, subdivision 2; 245F.12, subdivisions 2, 3; 245F.15, subdivisions 3, 5; 245F.16, subdivisions 1, 2; 245F.18; 245G.02, subdivision 2; 245G.03, subdivision 1; 245G.09, subdivision 1; 245G.10, subdivision 3; 245G.11, subdivisions 3, 4; 245G.13, subdivision 2; 253B.02, subdivisions 4b, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, by adding a subdivision; 253B.03, subdivisions 1, 2, 3, 4a, 5, 6, 6b, 6d, as amended, 7, 10; 253B.04, subdivisions 1, 1a, 2; 253B.045, subdivisions 2, 3, 5, 6; 253B.06, subdivisions 1, 2, as amended, 3; 253B.07, subdivisions 1, 2, 2a, 2b, 2d, 3, 5, 7; 253B.08, subdivisions 1, 2a, 5, 5a; 253B.09, subdivisions 1, 2, 3a, 5; 253B.092; 253B.0921; 253B.095, subdivision 3; 253B.097, subdivisions 1, 2, 3, 6; 253B.10; 253B.12, subdivisions 1, 3, 4, 7; 253B.13, subdivision 1; 253B.14; 253B.141; 253B.15, subdivisions 1, 1a, 2, 3, 3a, 3b, 3c, 5, 7, 9, 10, by adding a subdivision; 253B.16; 253B.17; 253B.18, subdivisions 1, 2, 3, 4a, 4b, 4c, 5, 5a, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15; 253B.19, subdivision 2; 253B.20, subdivisions 1, 2, 3, 4, 6; 253B.21, subdivisions 1, 2, 3; 253B.212, subdivisions 1, 1a, 1b, 2; 253B.22, subdivisions 1, 2, 3, 4; 253B.23, subdivisions 1, 1b, 2; 253B.24; 253D.02, subdivision 6; 253D.07, subdivision 2; 253D.10, subdivision 2; 253D.28, subdivision 2; 254A.09; 256.01, subdivisions 12, 15; 256.0112, subdivision 10; 256.041, subdivision 10; 256.045, subdivisions 3, 3b, 4; 256.82, subdivision 2; 256.87, subdivision 8; 256.975, subdivision 12; 256B.0621, subdivision 4; 256B.0625, subdivisions 5l, 33, 56a; 256B.0652, subdivision 10; 256B.0653, subdivisions 4, 5, 7; 256B.0654, subdivisions 1, as amended, 2a, as amended, 3, as amended, 4, as amended; 256B.0911, subdivision 1; 256B.092, subdivision 1a; 256B.0941, subdivisions 1, 3; 256B.0944, subdivision 1; 256B.0945, subdivision 1; 256B.0947, subdivisions 2, 4, 5, 6; 256B.0949, subdivisions 2, 5, 6, 9, 13, 14, 15, 16; 256B.0951, subdivision 5; 256B.0954; 256B.097, subdivisions 4, 6; 256B.49, subdivisions 16, 23; 256B.77, subdivision 17; 256B.85, subdivision 12a; 256D.02, subdivision 17; 256E.21, subdivision 5; 256E.35; 256F.10, subdivisions 1, 4; 256I.03, subdivisions 3, 14; 256I.05, subdivisions 1c, 1n, 8; 256I.06, subdivision 2, by adding a subdivision; 256J.08, subdivision 73a, as amended; 256L.07, subdivision 4; 256M.10, subdivision 2; 256M.40, subdivision 1; 256M.41, subdivision 1; 256N.02, subdivision 14a; 256N.21, subdivisions 2, 5; 256N.24, subdivision 4; 256P.01, by adding a subdivision; 257.0725; 257.0764; 257.70; 260.012; 260.761, subdivision 2; 260B.171, subdivision 6; 260C.007, subdivisions 3, 5, 6, 13, by adding subdivisions; 260C.150, subdivision 3; 260C.157, subdivision 3; 260C.171, subdivision 3; 260C.177; 260C.202; 260C.204; 260C.209, subdivision 2; 260C.212, subdivisions 1, 4a, 12, by adding a subdivision; 260C.219; 260C.221; 260C.227; 260C.4412; 260C.503, subdivision 2, by adding a subdivision; 260D.01; 260D.02, subdivisions 3, 5; 388.051, subdivision 2; 518.005, subdivision 5; 518.165, subdivisions 2, 5; 518A.53, subdivision 11; 518A.68; 518A.685; 524.5-118; 595.02, subdivisions 1, 2; 609.26, subdivision 7; 609.3457, subdivision 2; 609.379, subdivision 2; 609.507; 609.7495, subdivision 1; 611A.203, subdivision 4; 611A.90, subdivision 1; 626.557, subdivision 9d; Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, sections 13.46, subdivisions 3, 4; 119B.011, subdivision 19; 122A.20, subdivision 2; 122A.40, subdivision 13; 122A.41, subdivision 6; 144A.4796, subdivision 2; 148B.593; 243.166, subdivision 7; 245.4889, subdivision 1; 245.735, subdivision 3; 245A.02, subdivision 18; 245A.03, subdivision 7; 245A.07, subdivision 3; 245A.145, subdivision 1; 245A.149; 245A.16, subdivision 1; 245A.40, subdivisions 1, 7; 245C.03, subdivision 1; 245C.05, subdivision 4; 245C.08, subdivision 1; 245C.13, subdivision 2; 245D.071, subdivision 5; 245D.09, subdivision 5; 245G.12; 245G.13, subdivision 1; 245H.11, as amended; 254A.03, subdivision 3, as amended; 254B.04, subdivision 1; 254B.05, subdivision 1; 256.01, subdivision 14b; 256B.056, subdivision 5c; 256B.0625, subdivision 5m; 256B.064, subdivision 2; 256B.0711, subdivision 1; 256B.0911, subdivisions 1a, 3a, 3f; 256B.092, subdivision 1b; 256B.49, subdivisions 13, 14; 256B.85, subdivision 10; 256I.04, subdivision 2b; 256S.01, subdivision 6; 256S.19, subdivision 4; 260B.198, subdivision 1; 260C.139, subdivision 3; 260C.178, subdivision 1; 260C.201, subdivision 6; 260C.212, subdivision 2; 299C.093; Laws 2016, chapter 189, article 15, section 29; Laws 2017, First Special Session chapter 6, article 7, section 33, subdivisions 2, 3; Laws 2019, First Special Session chapter 9, article 5, section 86; article 14, section 2, subdivision 33; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapters 120A; 253B; 254A; 256B; 256K; 260; 260C; proposing coding for new law as Minnesota Statutes, chapter 260E; repealing Minnesota Statutes 2018, sections 245F.02, subdivision 20; 253B.02, subdivisions 6, 12a; 253B.05, subdivisions 1, 2, 2b, 3, 4; 253B.064; 253B.065; 253B.066; 253B.09, subdivision 3; 253B.12, subdivision 2; 253B.15, subdivision 11; 253B.20, subdivision 7; 626.556, subdivisions 1, 3, 3a, 3c, 3d, 3f, 4, 4a, 5, 6, 6a, 7, 7a, 8, 9, 10a, 10b, 10c, 10d, 10e, 10f, 10g, 10h, 10i, 10j, 10k, 10l, 10m, 10n, 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d, 12, 14, 15, 16; 626.5561; 626.5562; 626.558; 626.559, subdivisions 1, 1a, 1b, 2, 3, 5; 626.5591; 626.561; Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 626.556, subdivisions 2, 3b, 3e, 10, 11; Laws 2005, First Special Session chapter 4, article 7, sections 50; 51; Laws 2012, chapter 247, article 4, section 47, as amended; Laws 2015, chapter 71, article 7, section 54, as amended; Laws 2017, First Special Session chapter 6, article 1, sections 44, as amended; 45, as amended.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

ARTICLE 1

CHILDREN AND FAMILY SERVICES

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 119B.011, subdivision 19, is amended to read:

Subd. 19.

Provider.

"Provider" means:

(1) an individual or child care center or facility licensed to provide child care under chapter 245A when operating within the terms of the license;

(2) a license-exempt center required to be certified under chapter 245H;

(3) an individual or child care center or facility that: (i) holds a valid child care license issued by another state or a tribe; (ii) provides child care services in the licensing state or in the area under the licensing tribe's jurisdiction; and (iii) is in compliance with federal health and safety requirements as certified by the licensing state or tribe, or as determined by receipt of child care development block grant funds in the licensing state; or

(4) a legal nonlicensed child care provider as defined under section 119B.011, subdivision 16, providing legal child care services. A legal nonlicensed child care provider must be at least 18 years of age, and not a member of the MFIP assistance unit or a member of the family receiving child care assistance to be authorized under this chapter.; or

(5) an individual or child care center or facility that is operated under the jurisdiction of the federal government.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective July 1, 2020.

Sec. 2.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 119B.21, is amended to read:

119B.21 CHILD CARE SERVICES GRANTS.

Subdivision 1.

Distribution of grant funds.

(a) The commissioner shall distribute funds to the child care resource and referral programs designated under section sections 119B.189 and 119B.19, subdivision 1a, for child care services grants to centers under subdivision 5 and family child care programs based upon the following factors improve child care quality, support start-up of new programs, and expand existing programs.

(b) Up to ten percent of funds appropriated for grants under this section may be used by the commissioner for statewide child care development initiatives, training initiatives, collaboration programs, and research and data collection. The commissioner shall develop eligibility guidelines and a process to distribute funds under this paragraph.

(c) At least 90 percent of funds appropriated for grants under this section may be distributed by the commissioner to child care resource and referral programs under section sections 119B.189 and 119B.19, subdivision 1a, for child care center grants and family child care grants based on the following factors:

(1) the number of children under 13 years of age needing child care in the region;

(2) the region served by the program;

(3) the ratio of children under 13 years of age needing child care to the number of licensed spaces in the region;

(4) the number of licensed child care providers and school-age care programs in the region; and

(5) other related factors determined by the commissioner.

(d) Child care resource and referral programs must award child care center grants and family child care services grants based on the recommendation of the child care district proposal review committees under subdivision 3.

(e) The commissioner may distribute funds under this section for a two-year period.

Subd. 1a.

Eligible programs.

A child care resource and referral program designated under sections 119B.189 and 119B.19, subdivision 1a, may award child care services grants to:

(1) a child care center licensed under Minnesota Rules, chapter 9503, or in the process of becoming licensed;

(2) a family or group family child care home licensed under Minnesota Rules, chapter 9502, or in the process of becoming licensed;

(3) corporations or public agencies that develop or provide child care services;

(4) a school-age care program;

(5) a tribally licensed child care program; or

(6) legal nonlicensed or family, friend, and neighbor child care providers.

Subd. 3.

Child care district proposal review committees.

(a) Child care district proposal review committees review applications for family child care grants and child care center services grants under this section and make funding recommendations to the child care resource and referral program designated under section sections 119B.189 and 119B.19, subdivision 1a. Each region within a district must be represented on the review committee. The child care district proposal review committees must complete their reviews and forward their recommendations to the child care resource and referral district programs by the date specified by the commissioner.

(b) A child care resource and referral district program shall establish a process to select members of the child care district proposal review committee. Members must reflect a broad cross-section of the community, and may include the following constituent groups: family child care providers, child care center providers, school-age care providers, parents who use child care services, health services, social services, public schools, Head Start, employers, representatives of cultural and ethnic communities, and other citizens with demonstrated interest in child care issues. Members of the proposal review committee with a direct financial interest in a pending grant proposal may not provide a recommendation or participate in the ranking of that grant proposal.

(c) The child care resource and referral district program may reimburse committee members for their actual travel, child care, and child care provider substitute expenses for up to two committee meetings per year. The program may also pay offer a stipend to parent representatives proposal review committee members for participating in two meetings per year the grant review process.

Subd. 5.

Child care services grants.

(a) A child care resource and referral program designated under section sections 119B.189 and 119B.19, subdivision 1a, may award child care services grants for:

(1) creating new licensed child care facilities and expanding existing facilities, including, but not limited to, supplies, toys, equipment, facility renovation, and remodeling;

(2) improving licensed child care facility programs child care facility improvements, including but not limited to, improvements to meet licensing requirements;

(3) staff training and development services including, but not limited to, in-service training, curriculum development, accreditation, certification, consulting, resource centers, program and resource materials, supporting effective teacher-child interactions, child-focused teaching, and content-driven classroom instruction;

(4) capacity building through the purchase of appropriate technology to create, enhance, and maintain business management systems;

(5) emergency assistance for child care programs;

(6) new programs or projects for the creation, expansion, or improvement of programs that serve ethnic immigrant and refugee communities; and

(7) targeted recruitment initiatives to expand and build the capacity of the child care system and to improve the quality of care provided by legal nonlicensed child care providers.; and

(8) other uses as approved by the commissioner.

(b) A child care resource and referral organization designated under section sections 119B.189 and 119B.19, subdivision 1a, may award child care services grants of up to $1,000 to family child care providers. These grants may be used for: eligible programs in amounts up to a maximum determined by the commissioner for each type of eligible program.

(1) facility improvements, including, but not limited to, improvements to meet licensing requirements;

(2) improvements to expand a child care facility or program;

(3) toys and equipment;

(4) technology and software to create, enhance, and maintain business management systems;

(5) start-up costs;

(6) staff training and development; and

(7) other uses approved by the commissioner.

(c) A child care resource and referral program designated under section 119B.19, subdivision 1a, may award child care services grants to:

(1) licensed providers;

(2) providers in the process of being licensed;

(3) corporations or public agencies that develop or provide child care services;

(4) school-age care programs;

(5) legal nonlicensed or family, friend, and neighbor care providers; or

(6) any combination of clauses (1) to (5).

(d) A child care center that is a recipient of a child care services grant for facility improvements or staff training and development must provide a 25 percent local match. A local match is not required for grants to family child care providers.

(e) Beginning July 1, 2009, grants to child care centers under this subdivision shall be increasingly awarded for activities that improve provider quality, including activities under paragraph (a), clauses (1) to (3) and (6). Grants to family child care providers shall be increasingly awarded for activities that improve provider quality, including activities under paragraph (b), clauses (1), (3), and (6).

Sec. 3.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 119B.26, is amended to read:

119B.26 AUTHORITY TO WAIVE REQUIREMENTS DURING DISASTER PERIODS.

The commissioner may waive requirements under this chapter for up to nine months after the disaster in areas where a federal disaster has been declared under United States Code, title 42, section 5121, et seq., or the governor has exercised authority under chapter 12. The commissioner may waive requirements retroactively from the date of the disaster. The commissioner shall notify the chairs of the house of representatives and senate committees with jurisdiction over this chapter and the house of representatives Ways and Means Committee ten days before the effective date of any waiver granted within five business days after the commissioner grants a waiver under this section.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 4.

[120A.21] ENROLLMENT OF A STUDENT IN FOSTER CARE.

A student placed in foster care must remain enrolled in the student's prior school unless it is determined that remaining enrolled in the prior school is not in the student's best interests. If the student does not remain enrolled in the prior school, the student must be enrolled in a new school within seven school days.

Sec. 5.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245A.02, subdivision 2c, is amended to read:

Subd. 2c.

Annual or annually; family child care training requirements.

For the purposes of section 245A.50, subdivisions 1 to 9 sections 245A.50 to 245A.53, "annual" or "annually" means the 12-month period beginning on the license effective date or the annual anniversary of the effective date and ending on the day prior to the annual anniversary of the license effective date.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2020.

Sec. 6.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 245A.02, subdivision 18, is amended to read:

Subd. 18.

Supervision.

(a) For purposes of licensed child care centers, "supervision" means when a program staff person:

(1) is accountable for the child's care;

(2) can intervene to protect the health and safety of the child; and

(3) is within sight and hearing of the child at all times except as described in paragraphs (b) to (d) (e).

(b) When an infant is placed in a crib room to sleep, supervision occurs when a program staff person is within sight or hearing of the infant. When supervision of a crib room is provided by sight or hearing, the center must have a plan to address the other supervision components.

(c) When a single school-age child uses the restroom within the licensed space, supervision occurs when a program staff person has knowledge of the child's activity and location and checks on the child at least every five minutes. When a school-age child uses the restroom outside the licensed space, including but not limited to field trips, supervision occurs when staff accompany children to the restroom.

(d) When a school-age child leaves the classroom but remains within the licensed space to deliver or retrieve items from the child's personal storage space, supervision occurs when a program staff person has knowledge of the child's activity and location and checks on the child at least every five minutes.

(e) When a single preschooler uses an individual, private restroom within the classroom with the door closed, supervision occurs when a program staff person has knowledge of the child's activity and location, can hear the child, and checks on the child at least every five minutes.

Sec. 7.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245A.04, subdivision 9, is amended to read:

Subd. 9.

Variances.

(a) The commissioner may grant variances to rules that do not affect the health or safety of persons in a licensed program if the following conditions are met:

(1) the variance must be requested by an applicant or license holder on a form and in a manner prescribed by the commissioner;

(2) the request for a variance must include the reasons that the applicant or license holder cannot comply with a requirement as stated in the rule and the alternative equivalent measures that the applicant or license holder will follow to comply with the intent of the rule; and

(3) the request must state the period of time for which the variance is requested.

The commissioner may grant a permanent variance when conditions under which the variance is requested do not affect the health or safety of persons being served by the licensed program, nor compromise the qualifications of staff to provide services. The permanent variance shall expire as soon as the conditions that warranted the variance are modified in any way. Any applicant or license holder must inform the commissioner of any changes or modifications that have occurred in the conditions that warranted the permanent variance. Failure to advise the commissioner shall result in revocation of the permanent variance and may be cause for other sanctions under sections 245A.06 and 245A.07.

The commissioner's decision to grant or deny a variance request is final and not subject to appeal under the provisions of chapter 14.

(b) The commissioner shall consider variances for child care center staff qualification requirements under Minnesota Rules, parts 9503.0032 and 9503.0033, that do not affect the health and safety of children served by the center. A variance request must be submitted to the commissioner in accordance with paragraph (a) and must include a plan for the staff person to gain additional experience, education, or training, as requested by the commissioner. When reviewing a variance request under this section, the commissioner shall consider the staff person's level of professional development, including but not limited to steps completed on the Minnesota career lattice.

(c) Beginning January 1, 2021, counties shall use a uniform application form developed by the commissioner for variance requests by family child care license holders.

Sec. 8.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 245A.149, is amended to read:

245A.149 SUPERVISION OF FAMILY CHILD CARE LICENSE HOLDER'S OWN CHILD.

(a) Notwithstanding Minnesota Rules, part 9502.0365, subpart 5, and with the license holder's consent, an individual may be present in the licensed space, may supervise the family child care license holder's own child both inside and outside of the licensed space, and is exempt from the training and supervision requirements of this chapter and Minnesota Rules, chapter 9502, if the individual:

(1) is related to the license holder or to the license holder's child, as defined in section 245A.02, subdivision 13, or is a household member who the license holder has reported to the county agency;

(2) is not a designated caregiver, helper, or substitute for the licensed program;

(3) is involved only in the care of the license holder's own child; and

(4) does not have direct, unsupervised contact with any nonrelative children receiving services.

(b) If the individual in paragraph (a) is not a household member, the individual is also exempt from background study requirements under chapter 245C.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2020.

Sec. 9.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 245A.16, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Delegation of authority to agencies.

(a) County agencies and private agencies that have been designated or licensed by the commissioner to perform licensing functions and activities under section 245A.04 and background studies for family child care under chapter 245C; to recommend denial of applicants under section 245A.05; to issue correction orders, to issue variances, and recommend a conditional license under section 245A.06; or to recommend suspending or revoking a license or issuing a fine under section 245A.07, shall comply with rules and directives of the commissioner governing those functions and with this section. The following variances are excluded from the delegation of variance authority and may be issued only by the commissioner:

(1) dual licensure of family child care and child foster care, dual licensure of child and adult foster care, and adult foster care and family child care;

(2) adult foster care maximum capacity;

(3) adult foster care minimum age requirement;

(4) child foster care maximum age requirement;

(5) variances regarding disqualified individuals except that, before the implementation of NETStudy 2.0, county agencies may issue variances under section 245C.30 regarding disqualified individuals when the county is responsible for conducting a consolidated reconsideration according to sections 245C.25 and 245C.27, subdivision 2, clauses (a) and (b), of a county maltreatment determination and a disqualification based on serious or recurring maltreatment;

(6) the required presence of a caregiver in the adult foster care residence during normal sleeping hours;

(7) variances to requirements relating to chemical use problems of a license holder or a household member of a license holder; and

(8) variances to section 245A.53 for a time-limited period. If the commissioner grants a variance under this clause, the license holder must provide notice of the variance to all parents and guardians of the children in care.

Except as provided in section 245A.14, subdivision 4, paragraph (e), a county agency must not grant a license holder a variance to exceed the maximum allowable family child care license capacity of 14 children.

(b) A county agency that has been designated by the commissioner to issue family child care variances must:

(1) publish the county agency's policies and criteria for issuing variances on the county's public website and update the policies as necessary; and

(2) annually distribute the county agency's policies and criteria for issuing variances to all family child care license holders in the county.

(b) (c) Before the implementation of NETStudy 2.0, county agencies must report information about disqualification reconsiderations under sections 245C.25 and 245C.27, subdivision 2, paragraphs (a) and (b), and variances granted under paragraph (a), clause (5), to the commissioner at least monthly in a format prescribed by the commissioner.

(c) (d) For family child care programs, the commissioner shall require a county agency to conduct one unannounced licensing review at least annually.

(d) (e) For family adult day services programs, the commissioner may authorize licensing reviews every two years after a licensee has had at least one annual review.

(e) (f) A license issued under this section may be issued for up to two years.

(f) (g) During implementation of chapter 245D, the commissioner shall consider:

(1) the role of counties in quality assurance;

(2) the duties of county licensing staff; and

(3) the possible use of joint powers agreements, according to section 471.59, with counties through which some licensing duties under chapter 245D may be delegated by the commissioner to the counties.

Any consideration related to this paragraph must meet all of the requirements of the corrective action plan ordered by the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

(g) (h) Licensing authority specific to section 245D.06, subdivisions 5, 6, 7, and 8, or successor provisions; and section 245D.061 or successor provisions, for family child foster care programs providing out-of-home respite, as identified in section 245D.03, subdivision 1, paragraph (b), clause (1), is excluded from the delegation of authority to county and private agencies.

(h) (i) A county agency shall report to the commissioner, in a manner prescribed by the commissioner, the following information for a licensed family child care program:

(1) the results of each licensing review completed, including the date of the review, and any licensing correction order issued;

(2) any death, serious injury, or determination of substantiated maltreatment; and

(3) any fires that require the service of a fire department within 48 hours of the fire. The information under this clause must also be reported to the state fire marshal within two business days of receiving notice from a licensed family child care provider.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective January 1, 2021.

Sec. 10.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 245A.40, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7.

In-service.

(a) A license holder must ensure that the center director, staff persons, substitutes, and unsupervised volunteers complete in-service training each calendar year.

(b) The center director and staff persons who work more than 20 hours per week must complete 24 hours of in-service training each calendar year. Staff persons who work 20 hours or less per week must complete 12 hours of in-service training each calendar year. Substitutes and unsupervised volunteers must complete the requirements of paragraphs (e) to (h) (d) to (g) and do not otherwise have a minimum number of hours of training to complete.

(c) The number of in-service training hours may be prorated for individuals not employed for an entire year.

(d) Each year, in-service training must include:

(1) the center's procedures for maintaining health and safety according to section 245A.41 and Minnesota Rules, part 9503.0140, and handling emergencies and accidents according to Minnesota Rules, part 9503.0110;

(2) the reporting responsibilities under section 626.556 chapter 260E and Minnesota Rules, part 9503.0130;

(3) at least one-half hour of training on the standards under section 245A.1435 and on reducing the risk of sudden unexpected infant death as required under subdivision 5, if applicable; and

(4) at least one-half hour of training on the risk of abusive head trauma from shaking infants and young children as required under subdivision 5a, if applicable.

(e) Each year, or when a change is made, whichever is more frequent, in-service training must be provided on: (1) the center's risk reduction plan under section 245A.66, subdivision 2; and (2) a child's individual child care program plan as required under Minnesota Rules, part 9503.0065, subpart 3.

(f) At least once every two calendar years, the in-service training must include:

(1) child development and learning training under subdivision 2;

(2) pediatric first aid that meets the requirements of subdivision 3;

(3) pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation training that meets the requirements of subdivision 4;

(4) cultural dynamics training to increase awareness of cultural differences; and

(5) disabilities training to increase awareness of differing abilities of children.

(g) At least once every five years, in-service training must include child passenger restraint training that meets the requirements of subdivision 6, if applicable.

(h) The remaining hours of the in-service training requirement must be met by completing training in the following content areas of the Minnesota Knowledge and Competency Framework:

(1) Content area I: child development and learning;

(2) Content area II: developmentally appropriate learning experiences;

(3) Content area III: relationships with families;

(4) Content area IV: assessment, evaluation, and individualization;

(5) Content area V: historical and contemporary development of early childhood education;

(6) Content area VI: professionalism;

(7) Content area VII: health, safety, and nutrition; and

(8) Content area VIII: application through clinical experiences.

(i) For purposes of this subdivision, the following terms have the meanings given them.

(1) "Child development and learning training" means training in understanding how children develop physically, cognitively, emotionally, and socially and learn as part of the children's family, culture, and community.

(2) "Developmentally appropriate learning experiences" means creating positive learning experiences, promoting cognitive development, promoting social and emotional development, promoting physical development, and promoting creative development.

(3) "Relationships with families" means training on building a positive, respectful relationship with the child's family.

(4) "Assessment, evaluation, and individualization" means training in observing, recording, and assessing development; assessing and using information to plan; and assessing and using information to enhance and maintain program quality.

(5) "Historical and contemporary development of early childhood education" means training in past and current practices in early childhood education and how current events and issues affect children, families, and programs.

(6) "Professionalism" means training in knowledge, skills, and abilities that promote ongoing professional development.

(7) "Health, safety, and nutrition" means training in establishing health practices, ensuring safety, and providing healthy nutrition.

(8) "Application through clinical experiences" means clinical experiences in which a person applies effective teaching practices using a range of educational programming models.

(j) The license holder must ensure that documentation, as required in subdivision 10, includes the number of total training hours required to be completed, name of the training, the Minnesota Knowledge and Competency Framework content area, number of hours completed, and the director's approval of the training.

(k) In-service training completed by a staff person that is not specific to that child care center is transferable upon a staff person's change in employment to another child care program.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 11.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245A.50, as amended by Laws 2019, First Special Session chapter 9, article 2, section 53, is amended to read:

245A.50 FAMILY CHILD CARE TRAINING REQUIREMENTS.

Subdivision 1.

Initial training.

(a) License holders, second adult caregivers, and substitutes must comply with the training requirements in this section.

(b) Helpers who assist with care on a regular basis must complete six hours of training within one year after the date of initial employment.

(c) Training requirements established under this section that must be completed prior to initial licensure must be satisfied only by a newly licensed child care provider or by a child care provider who has not held an active child care license in Minnesota in the previous 12 months. A child care provider who voluntarily cancels a license or allows the license to lapse for a period of less than 12 months and who seeks reinstatement of the lapsed or canceled license within 12 months of the lapse or cancellation must satisfy the annual, ongoing training requirements, and is not required to satisfy the training requirements that must be completed prior to initial licensure. A child care provider who relocates within the state must (1) satisfy the annual, ongoing training requirements according to the schedules established in this section and (2) not be required to satisfy the training requirements under this section that the child care provider completed prior to initial licensure. If a licensed provider moves to a new county, the new county is prohibited from requiring the provider to complete any orientation class or training for new providers.

(d) Before a second adult caregiver or substitute cares for a child or assists in the care of a child, the license holder must train the second adult caregiver or substitute on:

(1) the emergency preparedness plan required under section 245A.51, subdivision 3; and

(2) allergy prevention and response required under section 245A.51, subdivision 1.

Subd. 1a.

Definitions and general provisions.

For the purposes of this section, the following terms have the meanings given:

(1) "second adult caregiver" means an adult who cares for children in the licensed program along with the license holder for a cumulative total of more than 500 hours annually;

(2) "helper" means a minor, ages 13 to 17, who assists in caring for children; and

(3) "substitute" means an adult who assumes responsibility for a license holder for a cumulative total of not more than 500 hours annually.

An adult who cares for children in the licensed program along with the license holder for a cumulative total of not more than 500 hours annually has the same training requirements as a substitute.

Subd. 2.

Child development and learning and behavior guidance training.

(a) For purposes of family and group family child care, the license holder and each second adult caregiver who provides care in the licensed setting for more than 30 days in any 12-month period shall complete and document at least four hours of child growth development and learning and behavior guidance training prior to initial licensure, and before caring for children. For purposes of this subdivision, "child development and learning training" means training in understanding how children develop physically, cognitively, emotionally, and socially and learn as part of the children's family, culture, and community. "Behavior guidance training" means training in the understanding of the functions of child behavior and strategies for managing challenging situations. At least two hours of child development and learning or behavior guidance training must be repeated annually. The training curriculum shall be developed or approved by the commissioner of human services.

(b) Notwithstanding initial child development and learning and behavior guidance training requirements in paragraph (a), individuals are exempt from this requirement if they:

(1) have taken a three-credit course on early childhood development within the past five years;

(2) have received a baccalaureate or master's degree in early childhood education or school-age child care within the past five years;

(3) are licensed in Minnesota as a prekindergarten teacher, an early childhood educator, a kindergarten to grade 6 teacher with a prekindergarten specialty, an early childhood special education teacher, or an elementary teacher with a kindergarten endorsement; or

(4) have received a baccalaureate degree with a Montessori certificate within the past five years.

(c) The license holder and each second adult caregiver must annually take at least two hours of child development and learning or behavior guidance training. A three-credit course about early childhood development meets the requirements of this paragraph.

Subd. 3.

First aid.

(a) When children are present in a family child care home governed by Minnesota Rules, parts 9502.0315 to 9502.0445, at least one staff person must be present in the home who has been trained in first aid Before initial licensure and before caring for a child, license holders, second adult caregivers, and substitutes must be trained in pediatric first aid. The first aid training must have been provided by an individual approved to provide first aid instruction. First aid training may be less than eight hours and persons qualified to provide first aid training include individuals approved as first aid instructors. First aid training must be repeated every two years License holders, second adult caregivers, and substitutes must repeat pediatric first aid training every two years. When the training expires, it must be retaken no later than the day before the anniversary of the license holder's license effective date.

(b) A family child care provider is exempt from the first aid training requirements under this subdivision related to any substitute caregiver who provides less than 30 hours of care during any 12-month period.

(c) (b) Video training reviewed and approved by the county licensing agency satisfies the training requirement of this subdivision.

Subd. 4.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

(a) When children are present in a family child care home governed by Minnesota Rules, parts 9502.0315 to 9502.0445, at least one caregiver must be present in the home who has been trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) Before initial licensure and before caring for a child, license holders, second adult caregivers, and substitutes must be trained in pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), including CPR techniques for infants and children, and in the treatment of obstructed airways. The CPR training must have been provided by an individual approved to provide CPR instruction,. License holders, second adult caregivers, and substitutes must be repeated repeat pediatric CPR training at least once every two years, and must be documented document the training in the caregiver's license holder's records. When the training expires, it must be retaken no later than the day before the anniversary of the license holder's license effective date.

(b) A family child care provider is exempt from the CPR training requirement in this subdivision related to any substitute caregiver who provides less than 30 hours of care during any 12-month period.

(c) (b) Persons providing CPR training must use CPR training that has been developed:

(1) by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross and incorporates psychomotor skills to support the instruction; or

(2) using nationally recognized, evidence-based guidelines for CPR training and incorporates psychomotor skills to support the instruction.

Subd. 5.

Sudden unexpected infant death and abusive head trauma training.

(a) License holders must ensure and document that before staff persons the license holder, second adult caregivers, substitutes, and helpers assist in the care of infants, they are instructed on the standards in section 245A.1435 and receive training on reducing the risk of sudden unexpected infant death. In addition, license holders must ensure and document that before staff persons the license holder, second adult caregivers, substitutes, and helpers assist in the care of infants and children under school age, they receive training on reducing the risk of abusive head trauma from shaking infants and young children. The training in this subdivision may be provided as initial training under subdivision 1 or ongoing annual training under subdivision 7.

(b) Sudden unexpected infant death reduction training required under this subdivision must, at a minimum, address the risk factors related to sudden unexpected infant death, means of reducing the risk of sudden unexpected infant death in child care, and license holder communication with parents regarding reducing the risk of sudden unexpected infant death.

(c) Abusive head trauma training required under this subdivision must, at a minimum, address the risk factors related to shaking infants and young children, means of reducing the risk of abusive head trauma in child care, and license holder communication with parents regarding reducing the risk of abusive head trauma.

(d) Training for family and group family child care providers must be developed by the commissioner in conjunction with the Minnesota Sudden Infant Death Center and approved by the Minnesota Center for Professional Development. Sudden unexpected infant death reduction training and abusive head trauma training may be provided in a single course of no more than two hours in length.

(e) Sudden unexpected infant death reduction training and abusive head trauma training required under this subdivision must be completed in person or as allowed under subdivision 10, clause (1) or (2), at least once every two years. When the training expires, it must be retaken no later than the day before the anniversary of the license holder's license effective date. On the years when the license holder individual receiving training is not receiving training in person or as allowed under subdivision 10, clause (1) or (2), the license holder individual receiving training in accordance with this subdivision must receive sudden unexpected infant death reduction training and abusive head trauma training through a video of no more than one hour in length. The video must be developed or approved by the commissioner.

(f) An individual who is related to the license holder as defined in section 245A.02, subdivision 13, and who is involved only in the care of the license holder's own infant or child under school age and who is not designated to be a second adult caregiver, helper, or substitute, as defined in Minnesota Rules, part 9502.0315, for the licensed program, is exempt from the sudden unexpected infant death and abusive head trauma training.

Subd. 6.

Child passenger restraint systems; training requirement.

(a) A license holder must comply with all seat belt and child passenger restraint system requirements under section 169.685.

(b) Family and group family child care programs licensed by the Department of Human Services that serve a child or children under nine eight years of age must document training that fulfills the requirements in this subdivision.

(1) Before a license holder, staff person, second adult caregiver, substitute, or helper transports a child or children under age nine eight in a motor vehicle, the person placing the child or children in a passenger restraint must satisfactorily complete training on the proper use and installation of child restraint systems in motor vehicles. Training completed under this subdivision may be used to meet initial training under subdivision 1 or ongoing training under subdivision 7.

(2) Training required under this subdivision must be at least one hour in length, completed at initial training, and repeated at least once every five years. When the training expires, it must be retaken no later than the day before the anniversary of the license holder's license effective date. At a minimum, the training must address the proper use of child restraint systems based on the child's size, weight, and age, and the proper installation of a car seat or booster seat in the motor vehicle used by the license holder to transport the child or children.

(3) Training under this subdivision must be provided by individuals who are certified and approved by the Department of Public Safety, Office of Traffic Safety. License holders may obtain a list of certified and approved trainers through the Department of Public Safety website or by contacting the agency.

(c) Child care providers that only transport school-age children as defined in section 245A.02, subdivision 19, paragraph (f), in child care buses as defined in section 169.448, subdivision 1, paragraph (e), are exempt from this subdivision.

Subd. 7.

Training requirements for family and group family child care.

For purposes of family and group family child care, the license holder and each primary second adult caregiver must complete 16 hours of ongoing training each year. For purposes of this subdivision, a primary caregiver is an adult caregiver who provides services in the licensed setting for more than 30 days in any 12-month period. Repeat of topical training requirements in subdivisions 2 to 8 shall count toward the annual 16-hour training requirement. Additional ongoing training subjects to meet the annual 16-hour training requirement must be selected from the following areas:

(1) child development and learning training under subdivision 2, paragraph (a) in understanding how a child develops physically, cognitively, emotionally, and socially, and how a child learns as part of the child's family, culture, and community;

(2) developmentally appropriate learning experiences, including training in creating positive learning experiences, promoting cognitive development, promoting social and emotional development, promoting physical development, promoting creative development; and behavior guidance;

(3) relationships with families, including training in building a positive, respectful relationship with the child's family;

(4) assessment, evaluation, and individualization, including training in observing, recording, and assessing development; assessing and using information to plan; and assessing and using information to enhance and maintain program quality;

(5) historical and contemporary development of early childhood education, including training in past and current practices in early childhood education and how current events and issues affect children, families, and programs;

(6) professionalism, including training in knowledge, skills, and abilities that promote ongoing professional development; and

(7) health, safety, and nutrition, including training in establishing healthy practices; ensuring safety; and providing healthy nutrition.

Subd. 8.

Other required training requirements.

(a) The training required of family and group family child care providers and staff must include training in the cultural dynamics of early childhood development and child care. The cultural dynamics and disabilities training and skills development of child care providers must be designed to achieve outcomes for providers of child care that include, but are not limited to:

(1) an understanding and support of the importance of culture and differences in ability in children's identity development;

(2) understanding the importance of awareness of cultural differences and similarities in working with children and their families;

(3) understanding and support of the needs of families and children with differences in ability;

(4) developing skills to help children develop unbiased attitudes about cultural differences and differences in ability;

(5) developing skills in culturally appropriate caregiving; and

(6) developing skills in appropriate caregiving for children of different abilities.

The commissioner shall approve the curriculum for cultural dynamics and disability training.

(b) The provider must meet the training requirement in section 245A.14, subdivision 11, paragraph (a), clause (4), to be eligible to allow a child cared for at the family child care or group family child care home to use the swimming pool located at the home.

Subd. 9.

Supervising for safety; training requirement.

(a) Courses required by this subdivision must include the following health and safety topics:

(1) preventing and controlling infectious diseases;

(2) administering medication;

(3) preventing and responding to allergies;

(4) ensuring building and physical premises safety;

(5) handling and storing biological contaminants;

(6) preventing and reporting child abuse and maltreatment; and

(7) emergency preparedness.

(a) (b) Before initial licensure and before caring for a child, all family child care license holders and each second adult caregiver who provides care in the licensed family child care home for more than 30 days in any 12-month period shall complete and document the completion of the six-hour Supervising for Safety for Family Child Care course developed by the commissioner.

(c) The license holder must ensure and document that, before caring for a child, all substitutes have completed the four-hour Basics of Licensed Family Child Care for Substitutes course developed by the commissioner, which must include health and safety topics as well as child development and learning.

(b) (d) The family child care license holder and each second adult caregiver who provides care in the licensed family child care home for more than 30 days in any 12-month period shall complete and document:

(1) the annual completion of a two-hour active supervision course developed by the commissioner; and

(2) the completion at least once every five years of the two-hour courses Health and Safety I and Health and Safety II. When the training is due for the first time or expires, it must be taken no later than the day before the anniversary of the license holder's license effective date. A license holder's or second adult caregiver's completion of either training in a given year meets the annual active supervision training requirement in clause (1).

(e) At least once every three years, license holders must ensure and document that substitutes have completed the four-hour Basics of Licensed Family Child Care for Substitutes course. When the training expires, it must be retaken no later than the day before the anniversary of the license holder's license effective date.

Subd. 10.

Approved training.

(a) The commissioner of human services must post information on the department's website indicating the specific category within the Knowledge and Competency Framework that will satisfy training requirements for child development and learning, behavior guidance, and active supervision. County licensing staff must accept trainings designated as satisfying training requirements by the commissioner under this paragraph.

(b) Unless specifically authorized in this section, one training does not fulfill two different training requirements. Courses within the identified knowledge and competency areas that are specific to child care centers or legal nonlicensed providers do not fulfill the requirements of this section.

(c) County licensing staff must accept training approved by the Minnesota Center for Professional Development, including:

(1) face-to-face or classroom training;

(2) online training; and

(3) relationship-based professional development, such as mentoring, coaching, and consulting.

Subd. 11.

Provider training.

New and increased training requirements under this section must not be imposed on providers until the commissioner establishes statewide accessibility to the required provider training.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2020.

Sec. 12.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245C.10, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 15.

Guardians and conservators.

The commissioner shall recover the cost of conducting background studies for guardians and conservators under section 524.5-118 through a fee of no more than $110 per study. The fees collected under this subdivision are appropriated to the commissioner for the purpose of conducting background studies.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective January 1, 2021.

Sec. 13.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245C.32, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Use.

(a) The commissioner may also use these systems and records to obtain and provide criminal history data from the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, criminal history data held by the commissioner, and data about substantiated maltreatment under section 626.556 or 626.557, for other purposes, provided that:

(1) the background study is specifically authorized in statute; or

(2) the request is made with the informed consent of the subject of the study as provided in section 13.05, subdivision 4.

(b) An individual making a request under paragraph (a), clause (2), must agree in writing not to disclose the data to any other individual without the consent of the subject of the data.

(c) The commissioner may recover the cost of obtaining and providing background study data by charging the individual or entity requesting the study a fee of no more than $20 per study. The fees collected under this paragraph are appropriated to the commissioner for the purpose of conducting background studies.

(d) The commissioner shall recover the cost of obtaining background study data required under section 524.5-118 through a fee of $50 per study for an individual who has not lived outside Minnesota for the past ten years, and a fee of $100 for an individual who has resided outside of Minnesota for any period during the ten years preceding the background study. The commissioner shall recover, from the individual, any additional fees charged by other states' licensing agencies that are associated with these data requests. Fees under subdivision 3 also apply when criminal history data from the National Criminal Records Repository is required.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective January 1, 2021.

Sec. 14.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256.041, subdivision 10, is amended to read:

Subd. 10.

Expiration.

The council expires on June 30, 2020 2022.

Sec. 15.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256E.35, is amended to read:

256E.35 FAMILY ASSETS FOR INDEPENDENCE.

Subdivision 1.

Establishment.

The Minnesota family assets for independence initiative is established to provide incentives for low-income families to accrue assets for education, housing, vehicles, and economic development purposes.

Subd. 2.

Definitions.

(a) The definitions in this subdivision apply to this section.

(b) "Eligible educational institution" means the following:

(1) an institution of higher education described in section 101 or 102 of the Higher Education Act of 1965; or

(2) an area vocational education school, as defined in subparagraph (C) or (D) of United States Code, title 20, chapter 44, section 2302 (3) (the Carl D. Perkins Vocational and Applied Technology Education Act), which is located within any state, as defined in United States Code, title 20, chapter 44, section 2302 (30). This clause is applicable only to the extent section 2302 is in effect on August 1, 2008.

(c) "Family asset account" means a savings account opened by a household participating in the Minnesota family assets for independence initiative.

(d) "Fiduciary organization" means:

(1) a community action agency that has obtained recognition under section 256E.31;

(2) a federal community development credit union serving the seven-county metropolitan area; or

(3) a women-oriented economic development agency serving the seven-county metropolitan area.

(e) "Financial coach" means a person who:

(1) has completed an intensive financial literacy training workshop that includes curriculum on budgeting to increase savings, debt reduction and asset building, building a good credit rating, and consumer protection;

(2) participates in ongoing statewide family assets for independence in Minnesota (FAIM) network training meetings under FAIM program supervision; and

(3) provides financial coaching to program participants under subdivision 4a.

(f) "Financial institution" means a bank, bank and trust, savings bank, savings association, or credit union, the deposits of which are insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or the National Credit Union Administration.

(g) "Household" means all individuals who share use of a dwelling unit as primary quarters for living and eating separate from other individuals.

(h) "Permissible use" means:

(1) postsecondary educational expenses at an eligible educational institution as defined in paragraph (b), including books, supplies, and equipment required for courses of instruction;

(2) acquisition costs of acquiring, constructing, or reconstructing a residence, including any usual or reasonable settlement, financing, or other closing costs;

(3) business capitalization expenses for expenditures on capital, plant, equipment, working capital, and inventory expenses of a legitimate business pursuant to a business plan approved by the fiduciary organization; and

(4) acquisition costs of a principal residence within the meaning of section 1034 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 which do not exceed 100 percent of the average area purchase price applicable to the residence determined according to section 143(e)(2) and (3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.; and

(5) acquisition costs of a personal vehicle only if approved by the fiduciary organization.

Subd. 3.

Grants awarded.

The commissioner shall allocate funds to participating fiduciary organizations to provide family asset services. Grant awards must be based on a plan submitted by a statewide organization representing fiduciary organizations. The statewide organization must ensure that any interested unrepresented fiduciary organization have input into the development of the plan. The plan must equitably distribute funds to achieve geographic balance and document the capacity of participating fiduciary organizations to manage the program and to raise the private match.

Subd. 4.

Duties.

A participating fiduciary organization must:

(1) provide separate accounts for the immediate deposit of program funds;

(2) establish a process to select participants and describe any priorities for participation;

(3) enter into a family asset agreement with the household to establish the terms of participation;

(4) provide households with economic literacy education;

(5) provide households with information on early childhood family education;

(6) provide matching deposits for participating households;

(7) coordinate with other related public and private programs; and

(8) establish a process to appeal and mediate disputes.

Subd. 4a.

Financial coaching.

A financial coach shall provide the following to program participants:

(1) financial education relating to budgeting, debt reduction, asset-specific training, and financial stability activities;

(2) asset-specific training related to buying a home or vehicle, acquiring postsecondary education, or starting or expanding a small business; and

(3) financial stability education and training to improve and sustain financial security.

Subd. 5.

Household eligibility; participation.

(a) To be eligible for state or TANF matching funds in the family assets for independence initiative, a household must meet the eligibility requirements of the federal Assets for Independence Act, Public Law 105-285, in Title IV, section 408 of that act.

(b) Each participating household must sign a family asset agreement that includes the amount of scheduled deposits into its savings account, the proposed use, and the proposed savings goal. A participating household must agree to complete an economic literacy training program.

(c) Participating households may only deposit money that is derived from household earned income or from state and federal income tax credits.

Subd. 6.

Withdrawal; matching; permissible uses.

(a) To receive a match, a participating household must transfer funds withdrawn from a family asset account to its matching fund custodial account held by the fiscal agent, according to the family asset agreement. The fiscal agent must determine if the match request is for a permissible use consistent with the household's family asset agreement.

(b) The fiscal agent must ensure the household's custodial account contains the applicable matching funds to match the balance in the household's account, including interest, on at least a quarterly basis and at the time of an approved withdrawal. Matches must be provided as follows:

(1) from state grant and TANF funds, a matching contribution of $1.50 $3 from state grant or TANF funds for every $1 of funds withdrawn from the family asset account equal to the lesser of $720 per year or not to exceed a $3,000 $6,000 lifetime limit; and.

(2) from nonstate funds, a matching contribution of no less than $1.50 for every $1 of funds withdrawn from the family asset account equal to the lesser of $720 per year or a $3,000 lifetime limit.

(c) Notwithstanding paragraph (b), if funds are appropriated for the Federal Assets for Independence Act of 1998, and a participating fiduciary organization is awarded a grant under that act, participating households with that fiduciary organization must be provided matches as follows:

(1) from state grant and TANF funds, a matching contribution of $1.50 for every $1 of funds withdrawn from the family asset account not to exceed a $3,000 lifetime limit; and

(2) from nonstate funds, a matching contribution of not less than $1.50 for every $1 of funds withdrawn from the family asset account not to exceed a $3,000 lifetime limit.

(b) (d) Upon receipt of transferred custodial account funds, the fiscal agent must make a direct payment to the vendor of the goods or services for the permissible use.

Subd. 7.

Program reporting.

The fiscal agent on behalf of each fiduciary organization participating in a family assets for independence initiative must report quarterly to the commissioner of human services identifying the participants with accounts, the number of accounts, the amount of savings and matches for each participant's account, the uses of the account, and the number of businesses, homes, vehicles, and educational services paid for with money from the account, as well as other information that may be required for the commissioner to administer the program and meet federal TANF reporting requirements.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 16.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 257.0725, is amended to read:

257.0725 ANNUAL REPORT.

The commissioner of human services shall publish an annual report on child maltreatment and on children in out-of-home placement. The commissioner shall confer with counties, child welfare organizations, child advocacy organizations, the courts, and other groups on how to improve the content and utility of the department's annual report. In regard to child maltreatment, the report shall include the number and kinds of maltreatment reports received and any other data that the commissioner determines is appropriate to include in a report on child maltreatment. In regard to children in out-of-home placement, the report shall include, by county and statewide, information on legal status, living arrangement, age, sex, race, accumulated length of time in placement, reason for most recent placement, race of family with whom placed, school enrollments within seven days of placement pursuant to section 120A.21, and other information deemed appropriate on all children in out-of-home placement. Out-of-home placement includes placement in any facility by an authorized child-placing agency.

Sec. 17.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 260C.219, is amended to read:

260C.219 AGENCY RESPONSIBILITIES FOR PARENTS AND CHILDREN IN PLACEMENT.

Subdivision 1.

Responsibilities for parents; noncustodial parents.

(a) When a child is in foster care, the responsible social services agency shall make diligent efforts to identify, locate, and, where appropriate, offer services to both parents of the child.

(1) (b) The responsible social services agency shall assess whether a noncustodial or nonadjudicated parent is willing and capable of providing for the day-to-day care of the child temporarily or permanently. An assessment under this clause paragraph may include, but is not limited to, obtaining information under section 260C.209. If after assessment, the responsible social services agency determines that a noncustodial or nonadjudicated parent is willing and capable of providing day-to-day care of the child, the responsible social services agency may seek authority from the custodial parent or the court to have that parent assume day-to-day care of the child. If a parent is not an adjudicated parent, the responsible social services agency shall require the nonadjudicated parent to cooperate with paternity establishment procedures as part of the case plan.

(2) (c) If, after assessment, the responsible social services agency determines that the child cannot be in the day-to-day care of either parent, the agency shall:

(i) (1) prepare an out-of-home placement plan addressing the conditions that each parent must meet before the child can be in that parent's day-to-day care; and

(ii) (2) provide a parent who is the subject of a background study under section 260C.209 15 days' notice that it intends to use the study to recommend against putting the child with that parent, and the court shall afford the parent an opportunity to be heard concerning the study.

The results of a background study of a noncustodial parent shall not be used by the agency to determine that the parent is incapable of providing day-to-day care of the child unless the agency reasonably believes that placement of the child into the home of that parent would endanger the child's health, safety, or welfare.

(3) (d) If, after the provision of services following an out-of-home placement plan under this section subdivision, the child cannot return to the care of the parent from whom the child was removed or who had legal custody at the time the child was placed in foster care, the agency may petition on behalf of a noncustodial parent to establish legal custody with that parent under section 260C.515, subdivision 4. If paternity has not already been established, it may be established in the same proceeding in the manner provided for under chapter 257.

(4) (e) The responsible social services agency may be relieved of the requirement to locate and offer services to both parents by the juvenile court upon a finding of good cause after the filing of a petition under section 260C.141.

Subd. 2.

Notice to parent or guardian.

(b) The responsible social services agency shall give notice to the parent or guardian of each child in foster care, other than a child in voluntary foster care for treatment under chapter 260D, of the following information:

(1) that the child's placement in foster care may result in termination of parental rights or an order permanently placing the child out of the custody of the parent, but only after notice and a hearing as required under this chapter and the juvenile court rules;

(2) time limits on the length of placement and of reunification services, including the date on which the child is expected to be returned to and safely maintained in the home of the parent or parents or placed for adoption or otherwise permanently removed from the care of the parent by court order;

(3) the nature of the services available to the parent;

(4) the consequences to the parent and the child if the parent fails or is unable to use services to correct the circumstances that led to the child's placement;

(5) the first consideration for placement with relatives;

(6) the benefit to the child in getting the child out of foster care as soon as possible, preferably by returning the child home, but if that is not possible, through a permanent legal placement of the child away from the parent;

(7) when safe for the child, the benefits to the child and the parent of maintaining visitation with the child as soon as possible in the course of the case and, in any event, according to the visitation plan under this section; and

(8) the financial responsibilities and obligations, if any, of the parent or parents for the support of the child during the period the child is in foster care.

Subd. 3.

Information for a parent considering voluntary placement.

(c) The responsible social services agency shall inform a parent considering voluntary placement of a child under section 260C.227 of the following information:

(1) the parent and the child each has a right to separate legal counsel before signing a voluntary placement agreement, but not to counsel appointed at public expense;

(2) the parent is not required to agree to the voluntary placement, and a parent who enters a voluntary placement agreement may at any time request that the agency return the child. If the parent so requests, the child must be returned within 24 hours of the receipt of the request;

(3) evidence gathered during the time the child is voluntarily placed may be used at a later time as the basis for a petition alleging that the child is in need of protection or services or as the basis for a petition seeking termination of parental rights or other permanent placement of the child away from the parent;

(4) if the responsible social services agency files a petition alleging that the child is in need of protection or services or a petition seeking the termination of parental rights or other permanent placement of the child away from the parent, the parent would have the right to appointment of separate legal counsel and the child would have a right to the appointment of counsel and a guardian ad litem as provided by law, and that counsel will be appointed at public expense if they are unable to afford counsel; and

(5) the timelines and procedures for review of voluntary placements under section 260C.212, subdivision 3, and the effect the time spent in voluntary placement on the scheduling of a permanent placement determination hearing under sections 260C.503 to 260C.521.

Subd. 4.

Medical examinations.

(d) When an agency accepts a child for placement, the agency shall determine whether the child has had a physical examination by or under the direction of a licensed physician within the 12 months immediately preceding the date when the child came into the agency's care. If there is documentation that the child has had an examination within the last 12 months, the agency is responsible for seeing that the child has another physical examination within one year of the documented examination and annually in subsequent years. If the agency determines that the child has not had a physical examination within the 12 months immediately preceding placement, the agency shall ensure that the child has an examination within 30 days of coming into the agency's care and once a year in subsequent years.

Subd. 5.

Children reaching age of majority; copies of records.

(e) Whether under state guardianship or not, if a child leaves foster care by reason of having attained the age of majority under state law, the child must be given at no cost a copy of the child's social and medical history, as defined in section 259.43, and education report.

Subd. 6.

Initial foster care phone call.

(a) When a child enters foster care or moves to a new foster care placement, the responsible social services agency should attempt to coordinate a phone call between the foster parent or facility and the child's parent or legal guardian to establish a connection and encourage ongoing information sharing between the child's parent or legal guardian and the foster parent or facility; and to provide an opportunity to share any information regarding the child, the child's needs, or the child's care that would facilitate the child's adjustment to the foster home, promote stability, reduce the risk of trauma, or otherwise improve the quality of the child's care.

(b) The responsible social services agency should attempt to coordinate the phone call in paragraph (a) as soon as practicable after the child arrives at the placement but no later than 72 hours after the child's placement. If the responsible social services agency determines that the phone call is not in the child's best interests, or if the agency is unable to identify, locate, or contact the child's parent or legal guardian despite reasonable efforts, or despite active efforts if the child is an American Indian child, the agency may delay the phone call until up to 48 hours after the agency determines that the phone call is in the child's best interests, or up to 48 hours after the child's parent or legal guardian is located or becomes available for the phone call. The responsible social services agency is not required to attempt to coordinate the phone call if placing the phone call poses a danger to the mental or physical health of the child or foster parent.

(c) The responsible social services agency shall document the date and time of the phone call in paragraph (a), its efforts to coordinate the phone call, its efforts to identify, locate, or find availability for the child's parent or legal guardian, any determination of whether the phone call is in the child's best interests, and any reasons that the phone call did not occur, including any danger to the child's or foster parent's mental or physical health.

Subd. 7.

Prenatal alcohol exposure screening.

(a) The responsible social services agency shall coordinate a prenatal alcohol exposure screening for any child who enters foster care as soon as practicable but no later than 45 days after the removal of the child from the child's home, if the agency has determined that the child has not previously been screened or identified as prenatally exposed to alcohol.

(b) The responsible social services agency shall ensure that the screening is conducted in accordance with:

(1) existing prenatal alcohol exposure screening best practice guidelines; and

(2) the criteria developed and provided to the responsible social services agency by the statewide organization that focuses solely on prevention and intervention with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder and that receives funding under the appropriation for fetal alcohol spectrum disorder in Laws 2007, chapter 147, article 19, section 4, subdivision 2.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective for children who enter foster care on or after August 1, 2020, except subdivision 6 is effective for children entering out-of-home placement or moving between placements on or after November 1, 2020.

Sec. 18.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 524.5-118, is amended to read:

524.5-118 BACKGROUND STUDY.

Subdivision 1.

When required; exception.

(a) The court shall require a background study under this section:

(1) before the appointment of a guardian or conservator, unless a background study has been done on the person under this section within the previous two five years; and

(2) once every two five years after the appointment, if the person continues to serve as a guardian or conservator.

(b) The background study must include:

(1) criminal history data from the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, other criminal history data held by the commissioner of human services, and data regarding whether the person has been a perpetrator of substantiated maltreatment of a vulnerable adult or minor;

(2) criminal history data from the National Criminal Records Repository if the proposed guardian or conservator has not resided in Minnesota for the previous ten years or if the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension information received from the commissioner of human services under subdivision 2, paragraph (b), indicates that the subject is a multistate offender or that the individual's multistate offender status is undetermined a national criminal history record check as defined in section 245C.02, subdivision 13c; and

(3) state licensing agency data if a search of the database or databases of the agencies listed in subdivision 2a shows that the proposed guardian or conservator has ever held a professional license directly related to the responsibilities of a professional fiduciary from an agency listed in subdivision 2a that was conditioned, suspended, revoked, or canceled.

(c) If the guardian or conservator is not an individual, the background study must be done on all individuals currently employed by the proposed guardian or conservator who will be responsible for exercising powers and duties under the guardianship or conservatorship.

(d) If the court determines that it would be in the best interests of the ward or protected person to appoint a guardian or conservator before the background study can be completed, the court may make the appointment pending the results of the study, however, the background study must then be completed as soon as reasonably possible after appointment, no later than 30 days after appointment.

(e) The fee for background studies conducted under this section is specified in section 245C.10, subdivision 14. The fee for conducting a background study for appointment of a professional guardian or conservator must be paid by the guardian or conservator. In other cases, the fee must be paid as follows:

(1) if the matter is proceeding in forma pauperis, the fee is an expense for purposes of section 524.5-502, paragraph (a);

(2) if there is an estate of the ward or protected person, the fee must be paid from the estate; or

(3) in the case of a guardianship or conservatorship of the person that is not proceeding in forma pauperis, the court may order that the fee be paid by the guardian or conservator or by the court.

(f) The requirements of this subdivision do not apply if the guardian or conservator is:

(1) a state agency or county;

(2) a parent or guardian of a proposed ward or protected person who has a developmental disability, if the parent or guardian has raised the proposed ward or protected person in the family home until the time the petition is filed, unless counsel appointed for the proposed ward or protected person under section 524.5-205, paragraph (d); 524.5-304, paragraph (b); 524.5-405, paragraph (a); or 524.5-406, paragraph (b), recommends a background study; or

(3) a bank with trust powers, bank and trust company, or trust company, organized under the laws of any state or of the United States and which is regulated by the commissioner of commerce or a federal regulator.

Subd. 2.

Procedure; criminal history and maltreatment records background check.

(a) The court shall request the commissioner of human services to complete a background study under section 245C.32. The request must be accompanied by the applicable fee and the signed consent of the subject of the study authorizing the release of the data obtained to the court. If the court is requesting a search of the National Criminal Records Repository, the request must be accompanied by acknowledgment that the study subject received a privacy notice required under subdivision 3. The commissioner of human services shall conduct a national criminal history record check. The study subject shall submit a set of classifiable fingerprints of the subject of the study. The fingerprints must be recorded on a fingerprint card provided by the commissioner of human services.

(b) The commissioner of human services shall provide the court with criminal history data as defined in section 13.87 from the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension in the Department of Public Safety, other criminal history data held by the commissioner of human services, and data regarding substantiated maltreatment of vulnerable adults under section 626.557 and substantiated maltreatment of minors under section 626.556, and criminal history information from other states or jurisdictions as indicated from a national criminal history record check within 15 20 working days of receipt of a request. If the subject of the study has been the perpetrator of substantiated maltreatment of a vulnerable adult or minor, the response must include a copy of the public portion of the investigation memorandum under section 626.557, subdivision 12b, or the public portion of the investigation memorandum under section 626.556, subdivision 10f. If the court did not request a search of the National Criminal Records Repository and information from the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension indicates that the subject is a multistate offender or that multistate offender status is undetermined, the response must include this information. The commissioner shall provide the court with information from the National Criminal Records Repository within three working days of the commissioner's receipt of the data The commissioner shall provide the court with information from a review of information according to subdivision 2a if the study subject provided information indicating current or prior affiliation with a state licensing agency.

(c) Notwithstanding section 626.557, subdivision 12b, or 626.556, subdivision 10f, if the commissioner of human services or a county lead agency or lead investigative agency has information that a person on whom a background study was previously done under this section has been determined to be a perpetrator of maltreatment of a vulnerable adult or minor, the commissioner or the county may provide this information to the court that requested the background study. The commissioner may also provide the court with additional criminal history or substantiated maltreatment information that becomes available after the background study is done.

Subd. 2a.

Procedure; state licensing agency data.

(a) The court shall request the commissioner of human services to provide the court within 25 working days of receipt of the request with licensing agency data for licenses directly related to the responsibilities of a professional fiduciary if the study subject indicates current or prior affiliation from the following agencies in Minnesota:

(1) Lawyers Responsibility Board;

(2) State Board of Accountancy;

(3) Board of Social Work;

(4) Board of Psychology;

(5) Board of Nursing;

(6) Board of Medical Practice;

(7) Department of Education;

(8) Department of Commerce;

(9) Board of Chiropractic Examiners;

(10) Board of Dentistry;

(11) Board of Marriage and Family Therapy;

(12) Department of Human Services; and

(13) Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Board.; and

(14) Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board.

(b) The commissioner shall enter into agreements with these agencies to provide for the commissioner with electronic access to the relevant licensing data by the commissioner, and to provide the commissioner with a quarterly list of new sanctions issued by the agency.

(c) The commissioner shall provide to the court the electronically available data maintained in the agency's database, including whether the proposed guardian or conservator is or has been licensed by the agency, and if the licensing agency database indicates a disciplinary action or a sanction against the individual's license, including a condition, suspension, revocation, or cancellation.

(d) If the proposed guardian or conservator has resided in a state other than Minnesota in the previous ten years, licensing agency data under this section shall also include the licensing agency data from any other state where the proposed guardian or conservator reported to have resided during the previous ten years if the study subject indicates current or prior affiliation. If the proposed guardian or conservator has or has had a professional license in another state that is directly related to the responsibilities of a professional fiduciary from one of the agencies listed under paragraph (a), state licensing agency data shall also include data from the relevant licensing agency of that state.

(e) The commissioner is not required to repeat a search for Minnesota or out-of-state licensing data on an individual if the commissioner has provided this information to the court within the prior two five years.

(f) If an individual has continuously resided in Minnesota since a previous background study under this section was completed, the commissioner is not required to repeat a search for records in another state. The commissioner shall review the information in paragraph (c) at least once every four months to determine if an individual who has been studied within the previous five years:

(1) has new disciplinary action or sanction against the individual's license; or

(2) did not disclose a prior or current affiliation with a Minnesota licensing agency.

(g) If the commissioner's review in paragraph (f) identifies new information, the commissioner shall provide any new information to the court.

Subd. 3.

Form Forms and systems.

The court must provide the study subject with a privacy notice that complies with section 245C.05, subdivision 2c. The commissioner of human services shall develop a form to be used for requesting use the NETStudy 2.0 system to conduct a background study under this section, which must include:.

(1) a notification to the subject of the study that the court will request the commissioner to perform a background study under this section;

(2) a notification to the subject of the rights in subdivision 4; and

(3) a signed consent to conduct the background study.

Subd. 4.

Rights.

The court shall notify the subject of a background study that the subject has the following rights:

(1) the right to be informed that the court will request a background study on the subject for the purpose of determining whether the person's appointment or continued appointment is in the best interests of the ward or protected person;

(2) the right to be informed of the results of the study and to obtain from the court a copy of the results; and

(3) the right to challenge the accuracy and completeness of information contained in the results under section 13.04, subdivision 4, except to the extent precluded by section 256.045, subdivision 3.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective January 1, 2021.

Sec. 19.

Laws 2016, chapter 189, article 15, section 29, is amended to read:

Sec. 29.

DIRECTION TO COMMISSIONERS; INCOME AND ASSET EXCLUSION.

(a) The commissioner of human services shall not count payments made to families by the income and child development in the first three years of life demonstration project as income or assets for purposes of determining or redetermining eligibility for child care assistance programs under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 119B; the Minnesota family investment program, work benefit program, or diversionary work program under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 256J, during the duration of the demonstration.

(b) The commissioner of human services shall not count payments made to families by the income and child development in the first three years of life demonstration project as income for purposes of determining or redetermining eligibility for medical assistance under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 256B, and MinnesotaCare under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 256L.

(c) For the purposes of this section, "income and child development in the first three years of life demonstration project" means a demonstration project funded by the United States Department of Health and Human Services National Institutes of Health to evaluate whether the unconditional cash payments have a causal effect on the cognitive, socioemotional, and brain development of infants and toddlers.

(d) This section shall only be implemented if Minnesota is chosen as a site for the child development in the first three years of life demonstration project, and expires January 1, 2022 2026.

(e) The commissioner of human services shall provide a report to the chairs and ranking minority members of the legislative committees having jurisdiction over human services issues by January 1, 2023 2027, informing the legislature on the progress and outcomes of the demonstration under this section.

Sec. 20.

Laws 2017, First Special Session chapter 6, article 7, section 33, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Pilot design and goals.

The pilot will establish five key developmental milestone markers from birth to age eight. Enrollees in the Pilot program participants will be developmentally assessed and tracked by a technology solution that tracks developmental milestones along the established developmental continuum. If a child's pilot program participant's progress falls below established milestones and the weighted scoring, the coordinated service system will focus on identified areas of concern, mobilize appropriate supportive services, and offer referrals or services to identified children and their families pilot program participants.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 21.

Laws 2017, First Special Session chapter 6, article 7, section 33, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Program participants in phase 1 target population.

Pilot program participants must opt in and provide parental or guardian consent to participate and be enrolled or engaged in one or more of the following:

(1) be enrolled in a Women's Infant & Children (WIC) program;

(2) be participating in a family home visiting program, or nurse family practice, or Healthy Families America (HFA) Follow Along Program;

(3) be children and families qualifying for and participating in early language learners (ELL) in the school district in which they reside; and a school's early childhood screening; or

(4) opt in and provide parental consent to participate in the pilot project any other Dakota County or school program that is determined as useful for identifying children at risk of falling below established guidelines.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 22.

DIRECTION TO COMMISSIONER; INITIAL FOSTER CARE PHONE CALL TRAINING.

By August 1, 2020, the commissioner of human services shall issue written guidance to county social services agencies, foster parents, and facilities to fully implement the initial foster care phone call procedures in Minnesota Statutes, section 260C.219, subdivision 6.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 23.

DIRECTION TO THE COMMISSIONER OF HUMAN SERVICES; UNIFORM FAMILY CHILD CARE VARIANCE APPLICATION FORM DEVELOPED BY THE COMMISSIONER.

By October 1, 2020, the commissioner of human services, after consultation with county licensors and family child care providers, including those serving on the Family Child Care Task Force, shall issue to counties a uniform application form for family child care variance requests. The commissioner shall also issue any necessary training or guidance for counties to use the form.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 24.

DIRECTION TO THE COMMISSIONER; EVALUATION OF CONTINUOUS LICENSES.

By January 1, 2021, the commissioner of human services shall consult with family child care license holders and county agencies to determine whether family child care licenses should automatically renew instead of requiring license holders to reapply for licensure. If the commissioner determines that family child care licenses should automatically renew, the commissioner must propose legislation for the 2021 legislative session to make the required amendments to statute and administrative rules, as necessary.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

ARTICLE 2

COMMUNITY SUPPORTS ADMINISTRATION

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 245.735, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Certified community behavioral health clinics.

(a) The commissioner shall establish a state certification process for certified community behavioral health clinics (CCBHCs). Entities that choose to be CCBHCs must:

(1) comply with the CCBHC criteria published by the United States Department of Health and Human Services;

(2) employ or contract for clinic staff who have backgrounds in diverse disciplines, including licensed mental health professionals and licensed alcohol and drug counselors, and staff who are culturally and linguistically trained to meet the needs of the population the clinic serves;

(3) ensure that clinic services are available and accessible to individuals and families of all ages and genders and that crisis management services are available 24 hours per day;

(4) establish fees for clinic services for individuals who are not enrolled in medical assistance using a sliding fee scale that ensures that services to patients are not denied or limited due to an individual's inability to pay for services;

(5) comply with quality assurance reporting requirements and other reporting requirements, including any required reporting of encounter data, clinical outcomes data, and quality data;

(6) provide crisis mental health and substance use services, withdrawal management services, emergency crisis intervention services, and stabilization services; screening, assessment, and diagnosis services, including risk assessments and level of care determinations; person- and family-centered treatment planning; outpatient mental health and substance use services; targeted case management; psychiatric rehabilitation services; peer support and counselor services and family support services; and intensive community-based mental health services, including mental health services for members of the armed forces and veterans;

(7) provide coordination of care across settings and providers to ensure seamless transitions for individuals being served across the full spectrum of health services, including acute, chronic, and behavioral needs. Care coordination may be accomplished through partnerships or formal contracts with:

(i) counties, health plans, pharmacists, pharmacies, rural health clinics, federally qualified health centers, inpatient psychiatric facilities, substance use and detoxification facilities, or community-based mental health providers; and

(ii) other community services, supports, and providers, including schools, child welfare agencies, juvenile and criminal justice agencies, Indian health services clinics, tribally licensed health care and mental health facilities, urban Indian health clinics, Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers, outpatient clinics, drop-in centers, acute care hospitals, and hospital outpatient clinics;

(8) be certified as mental health clinics under section 245.69, subdivision 2;

(9) comply with standards relating to mental health services in Minnesota Rules, parts 9505.0370 to 9505.0372, and section 256B.0671;

(10) be licensed to provide substance use disorder treatment under chapter 245G;

(11) be certified to provide children's therapeutic services and supports under section 256B.0943;

(12) be certified to provide adult rehabilitative mental health services under section 256B.0623;

(13) be enrolled to provide mental health crisis response services under sections 256B.0624 and 256B.0944;

(14) be enrolled to provide mental health targeted case management under section 256B.0625, subdivision 20;

(15) comply with standards relating to mental health case management in Minnesota Rules, parts 9520.0900 to 9520.0926;

(16) provide services that comply with the evidence-based practices described in paragraph (e); and

(17) comply with standards relating to peer services under sections 256B.0615, 256B.0616, and 245G.07, subdivision 1, paragraph (a), clause (5), as applicable when peer services are provided.

(b) If an entity is unable to provide one or more of the services listed in paragraph (a), clauses (6) to (17), the commissioner may certify the entity as a CCBHC, if the entity has a current contract with another entity that has the required authority to provide that service and that meets federal CCBHC criteria as a designated collaborating organization, or, to the extent allowed by the federal CCBHC criteria, the commissioner may approve a referral arrangement. The CCBHC must meet federal requirements regarding the type and scope of services to be provided directly by the CCBHC.

(c) Notwithstanding any other law that requires a county contract or other form of county approval for certain services listed in paragraph (a), clause (6), a clinic that otherwise meets CCBHC requirements may receive the prospective payment under section 256B.0625, subdivision 5m, for those services without a county contract or county approval. There is no county share when medical assistance pays the CCBHC prospective payment. As part of the certification process in paragraph (a), the commissioner shall require a letter of support from the CCBHC's host county confirming that the CCBHC and the county or counties it serves have an ongoing relationship to facilitate access and continuity of care, especially for individuals who are uninsured or who may go on and off medical assistance.

(d) When the standards listed in paragraph (a) or other applicable standards conflict or address similar issues in duplicative or incompatible ways, the commissioner may grant variances to state requirements if the variances do not conflict with federal requirements. If standards overlap, the commissioner may substitute all or a part of a licensure or certification that is substantially the same as another licensure or certification. The commissioner shall consult with stakeholders, as described in subdivision 4, before granting variances under this provision. For the CCBHC that is certified but not approved for prospective payment under section 256B.0625, subdivision 5m, the commissioner may grant a variance under this paragraph if the variance does not increase the state share of costs.

(e) The commissioner shall issue a list of required evidence-based practices to be delivered by CCBHCs, and may also provide a list of recommended evidence-based practices. The commissioner may update the list to reflect advances in outcomes research and medical services for persons living with mental illnesses or substance use disorders. The commissioner shall take into consideration the adequacy of evidence to support the efficacy of the practice, the quality of workforce available, and the current availability of the practice in the state. At least 30 days before issuing the initial list and any revisions, the commissioner shall provide stakeholders with an opportunity to comment.

(f) The commissioner shall recertify CCBHCs at least every three years. The commissioner shall establish a process for decertification and shall require corrective action, medical assistance repayment, or decertification of a CCBHC that no longer meets the requirements in this section or that fails to meet the standards provided by the commissioner in the application and certification process.

Sec. 2.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245A.11, subdivision 2a, is amended to read:

Subd. 2a.

Adult foster care and community residential setting license capacity.

(a) The commissioner shall issue adult foster care and community residential setting licenses with a maximum licensed capacity of four beds, including nonstaff roomers and boarders, except that the commissioner may issue a license with a capacity of five beds, including roomers and boarders, according to paragraphs (b) to (g).

(b) The license holder may have a maximum license capacity of five if all persons in care are age 55 or over and do not have a serious and persistent mental illness or a developmental disability.

(c) The commissioner may grant variances to paragraph (b) to allow a facility with a licensed capacity of up to five persons to admit an individual under the age of 55 if the variance complies with section 245A.04, subdivision 9, and approval of the variance is recommended by the county in which the licensed facility is located.

(d) The commissioner may grant variances to paragraph (a) to allow the use of an additional bed, up to five, for emergency crisis services for a person with serious and persistent mental illness or a developmental disability, regardless of age, if the variance complies with section 245A.04, subdivision 9, and approval of the variance is recommended by the county in which the licensed facility is located.

(e) The commissioner may grant a variance to paragraph (b) to allow for the use of an additional bed, up to five, for respite services, as defined in section 245A.02, for persons with disabilities, regardless of age, if the variance complies with sections 245A.03, subdivision 7, and 245A.04, subdivision 9, and approval of the variance is recommended by the county in which the licensed facility is located. Respite care may be provided under the following conditions:

(1) staffing ratios cannot be reduced below the approved level for the individuals being served in the home on a permanent basis;

(2) no more than two different individuals can be accepted for respite services in any calendar month and the total respite days may not exceed 120 days per program in any calendar year;

(3) the person receiving respite services must have his or her own bedroom, which could be used for alternative purposes when not used as a respite bedroom, and cannot be the room of another person who lives in the facility; and

(4) individuals living in the facility must be notified when the variance is approved. The provider must give 60 days' notice in writing to the residents and their legal representatives prior to accepting the first respite placement. Notice must be given to residents at least two days prior to service initiation, or as soon as the license holder is able if they receive notice of the need for respite less than two days prior to initiation, each time a respite client will be served, unless the requirement for this notice is waived by the resident or legal guardian.

(f) The commissioner may issue an adult foster care or community residential setting license with a capacity of five adults if the fifth bed does not increase the overall statewide capacity of licensed adult foster care or community residential setting beds in homes that are not the primary residence of the license holder, as identified in a plan submitted to the commissioner by the county, when the capacity is recommended by the county licensing agency of the county in which the facility is located and if the recommendation verifies that:

(1) the facility meets the physical environment requirements in the adult foster care licensing rule;

(2) the five-bed living arrangement is specified for each resident in the resident's:

(i) individualized plan of care;

(ii) individual service plan under section 256B.092, subdivision 1b, if required; or

(iii) individual resident placement agreement under Minnesota Rules, part 9555.5105, subpart 19, if required;

(3) the license holder obtains written and signed informed consent from each resident or resident's legal representative documenting the resident's informed choice to remain living in the home and that the resident's refusal to consent would not have resulted in service termination; and

(4) the facility was licensed for adult foster care before March 1, 2011 2016.

(g) The commissioner shall not issue a new adult foster care license under paragraph (f) after June 30 December 31, 2019 2020. The commissioner shall allow a facility with an adult foster care license issued under paragraph (f) before June 30 December 31, 2019 2020, to continue with a capacity of five adults if the license holder continues to comply with the requirements in paragraph (f).

Sec. 3.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245D.02, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 32a.

Sexual violence.

"Sexual violence" means the use of sexual actions or words that are unwanted or harmful to another person.

Sec. 4.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245D.071, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Assessment and initial service planning.

(a) Within 15 days of service initiation the license holder must complete a preliminary coordinated service and support plan addendum based on the coordinated service and support plan.

(b) Within the scope of services, the license holder must, at a minimum, complete assessments in the following areas before the 45-day planning meeting:

(1) the person's ability to self-manage health and medical needs to maintain or improve physical, mental, and emotional well-being, including, when applicable, allergies, seizures, choking, special dietary needs, chronic medical conditions, self-administration of medication or treatment orders, preventative screening, and medical and dental appointments;

(2) the person's ability to self-manage personal safety to avoid injury or accident in the service setting, including, when applicable, risk of falling, mobility, regulating water temperature, community survival skills, water safety skills, and sensory disabilities; and

(3) the person's ability to self-manage symptoms or behavior that may otherwise result in an incident as defined in section 245D.02, subdivision 11, clauses (4) to (7), suspension or termination of services by the license holder, or other symptoms or behaviors that may jeopardize the health and welfare of the person or others.

Assessments must produce information about the person that describes the person's overall strengths, functional skills and abilities, and behaviors or symptoms. Assessments must be based on the person's status within the last 12 months at the time of service initiation. Assessments based on older information must be documented and justified. Assessments must be conducted annually at a minimum or within 30 days of a written request from the person or the person's legal representative or case manager. The results must be reviewed by the support team or expanded support team as part of a service plan review.

(c) Within Before providing 45 days of service initiation or within 60 calendar days of service initiation, whichever is shorter, the license holder must meet with the person, the person's legal representative, the case manager, and other members of the support team or expanded support team, and other people as identified by the person or the person's legal representative to determine the following based on information obtained from the assessments identified in paragraph (b), the person's identified needs in the coordinated service and support plan, and the requirements in subdivision 4 and section 245D.07, subdivision 1a:

(1) the scope of the services to be provided to support the person's daily needs and activities;

(2) the person's desired outcomes and the supports necessary to accomplish the person's desired outcomes;

(3) the person's preferences for how services and supports are provided, including how the provider will support the person to have control of the person's schedule;

(4) whether the current service setting is the most integrated setting available and appropriate for the person; and

(5) opportunities to develop and maintain essential and life-enriching skills, abilities, strengths, interests, and preferences;

(6) opportunities for community access, participation, and inclusion in preferred community activities;

(7) opportunities to develop and strengthen personal relationships with other persons of the person's choice in the community;

(8) opportunities to seek competitive employment and work at competitively paying jobs in the community; and

(5) (9) how services must be coordinated across other providers licensed under this chapter serving the person and members of the support team or expanded support team to ensure continuity of care and coordination of services for the person.

(d) A discussion of how technology might be used to meet the person's desired outcomes must be included in the 45-day planning meeting. The coordinated service and support plan or support plan addendum must include a summary of this discussion. The summary must include a statement regarding any decision that is made regarding the use of technology and a description of any further research that needs to be completed before a decision regarding the use of technology can be made. Nothing in this paragraph requires that the coordinated service and support plan include the use of technology for the provision of services.

Sec. 5.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245D.081, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Coordination and evaluation of individual service delivery.

(a) Delivery and evaluation of services provided by the license holder must be coordinated by a designated staff person. Except as provided in clause (3), the designated coordinator must provide supervision, support, and evaluation of activities that include:

(1) oversight of the license holder's responsibilities assigned in the person's coordinated service and support plan and the coordinated service and support plan addendum;

(2) taking the action necessary to facilitate the accomplishment of the outcomes according to the requirements in section 245D.07;

(3) instruction and assistance to direct support staff implementing the coordinated service and support plan and the service outcomes, including direct observation of service delivery sufficient to assess staff competency. The designated coordinator may delegate the direct observation and competency assessment of the service delivery activities of direct support staff to an individual whom the designated coordinator has previously deemed competent in those activities; and

(4) evaluation of the effectiveness of service delivery, methodologies, and progress on the person's outcomes based on the measurable and observable criteria for identifying when the desired outcome has been achieved according to the requirements in section 245D.07.

(b) The license holder must ensure that the designated coordinator is competent to perform the required duties identified in paragraph (a) through education, training, and work experience relevant to the primary disability of persons served by the license holder and the individual persons for whom the designated coordinator is responsible. The designated coordinator must have the skills and ability necessary to develop effective plans and to design and use data systems to measure effectiveness of services and supports. The license holder must verify and document competence according to the requirements in section 245D.09, subdivision 3. The designated coordinator must minimally have:

(1) a baccalaureate degree in a field related to human services, and one year of full-time work experience providing direct care services to persons with disabilities or persons age 65 and older;

(2) an associate degree in a field related to human services, and two years of full-time work experience providing direct care services to persons with disabilities or persons age 65 and older;

(3) a diploma in a field related to human services from an accredited postsecondary institution and three years of full-time work experience providing direct care services to persons with disabilities or persons age 65 and older; or

(4) a minimum of 50 hours of education and training related to human services and disabilities; and

(5) four years of full-time work experience providing direct care services to persons with disabilities or persons age 65 and older under the supervision of a staff person who meets the qualifications identified in clauses (1) to (3).

Sec. 6.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245D.09, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Orientation to program requirements.

Except for a license holder who does not supervise any direct support staff, within 60 calendar days of hire, unless stated otherwise, the license holder must provide and ensure completion of orientation sufficient to create staff competency for direct support staff that combines supervised on-the-job training with review of and instruction in the following areas:

(1) the job description and how to complete specific job functions, including:

(i) responding to and reporting incidents as required under section 245D.06, subdivision 1; and

(ii) following safety practices established by the license holder and as required in section 245D.06, subdivision 2;

(2) the license holder's current policies and procedures required under this chapter, including their location and access, and staff responsibilities related to implementation of those policies and procedures;

(3) data privacy requirements according to sections 13.01 to 13.10 and 13.46, the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), and staff responsibilities related to complying with data privacy practices;

(4) the service recipient rights and staff responsibilities related to ensuring the exercise and protection of those rights according to the requirements in section 245D.04;

(5) sections 245A.65, 245A.66, 626.556, and 626.557, governing maltreatment reporting and service planning for children and vulnerable adults, and staff responsibilities related to protecting persons from maltreatment and reporting maltreatment. This orientation must be provided within 72 hours of first providing direct contact services and annually thereafter according to section 245A.65, subdivision 3;

(6) the principles of person-centered service planning and delivery as identified in section 245D.07, subdivision 1a, and how they apply to direct support service provided by the staff person;

(7) the safe and correct use of manual restraint on an emergency basis according to the requirements in section 245D.061 or successor provisions, and what constitutes the use of restraints, time out, and seclusion, including chemical restraint;

(8) staff responsibilities related to prohibited procedures under section 245D.06, subdivision 5, or successor provisions, why such procedures are not effective for reducing or eliminating symptoms or undesired behavior, and why such procedures are not safe;

(9) basic first aid; and

(10) strategies to minimize the risk of sexual violence, including concepts of healthy relationships, consent, and bodily autonomy of people with disabilities; and

(11) other topics as determined necessary in the person's coordinated service and support plan by the case manager or other areas identified by the license holder.

Sec. 7.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245D.09, subdivision 4a, is amended to read:

Subd. 4a.

Orientation to individual service recipient needs.

(a) Before having unsupervised direct contact with a person served by the program, or for whom the staff person has not previously provided direct support, or any time the plans or procedures identified in paragraphs (b) to (f) are revised, the staff person must review and receive instruction on the requirements in paragraphs (b) to (f) as they relate to the staff person's job functions for that person.

(b) For community residential services, training and competency evaluations must include the following, if identified in the coordinated service and support plan:

(1) appropriate and safe techniques in personal hygiene and grooming, including hair care; bathing; care of teeth, gums, and oral prosthetic devices; and other activities of daily living (ADLs) as defined under section 256B.0659, subdivision 1;

(2) an understanding of what constitutes a healthy diet according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the skills necessary to prepare that diet; and

(3) skills necessary to provide appropriate support in instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) as defined under section 256B.0659, subdivision 1.

(c) The staff person must review and receive instruction on the person's coordinated service and support plan or coordinated service and support plan addendum as it relates to the responsibilities assigned to the license holder, and when applicable, the person's individual abuse prevention plan, to achieve and demonstrate an understanding of the person as a unique individual, and how to implement those plans.

(d) The staff person must review and receive instruction on medication setup, assistance, or administration procedures established for the person when assigned to the license holder according to section 245D.05, subdivision 1, paragraph (b). Unlicensed staff may perform medication setup or medication administration only after successful completion of a medication setup or medication administration training, from a training curriculum developed by a registered nurse or appropriate licensed health professional. The training curriculum must incorporate an observed skill assessment conducted by the trainer to ensure unlicensed staff demonstrate the ability to safely and correctly follow medication procedures.

Medication administration must be taught by a registered nurse, clinical nurse specialist, certified nurse practitioner, physician assistant, or physician if, at the time of service initiation or any time thereafter, the person has or develops a health care condition that affects the service options available to the person because the condition requires:

(1) specialized or intensive medical or nursing supervision; and

(2) nonmedical service providers to adapt their services to accommodate the health and safety needs of the person.

(e) The staff person must review and receive instruction on the safe and correct operation of medical equipment used by the person to sustain life or to monitor a medical condition that could become life-threatening without proper use of the medical equipment, including but not limited to ventilators, feeding tubes, or endotracheal tubes. The training must be provided by a licensed health care professional or a manufacturer's representative and incorporate an observed skill assessment to ensure staff demonstrate the ability to safely and correctly operate the equipment according to the treatment orders and the manufacturer's instructions.

(f) The staff person must review and receive instruction on mental health crisis response, de-escalation techniques, and suicide intervention when providing direct support to a person with a serious mental illness.

(g) In the event of an emergency service initiation, the license holder must ensure the training required in this subdivision occurs within 72 hours of the direct support staff person first having unsupervised contact with the person receiving services. The license holder must document the reason for the unplanned or emergency service initiation and maintain the documentation in the person's service recipient record.

(h) License holders who provide direct support services themselves must complete the orientation required in subdivision 4, clauses (3) to (10) (11).

Sec. 8.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 245D.09, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Annual training.

A license holder must provide annual training to direct support staff on the topics identified in subdivision 4, clauses (3) to (10) (11). If the direct support staff has a first aid certification, annual training under subdivision 4, clause (9), is not required as long as the certification remains current.

Sec. 9.

[254A.21] FETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDERS PREVENTION GRANTS.

(a) The commissioner of human services shall award a grant to a statewide organization that focuses solely on prevention of and intervention with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. The grant recipient must make subgrants to eligible regional collaboratives in rural and urban areas of the state for the purposes specified in paragraph (c).

(b) "Eligible regional collaboratives" means a partnership between at least one local government or tribal government and at least one community-based organization and, where available, a family home visiting program. For purposes of this paragraph, a local government includes a county or a multicounty organization, a county-based purchasing entity, or a community health board.

(c) Eligible regional collaboratives must use subgrant funds to reduce the incidence of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders and other prenatal drug-related effects in children in Minnesota by identifying and serving pregnant women suspected of or known to use or abuse alcohol or other drugs. Eligible regional collaboratives must provide intensive services to chemically dependent women to increase positive birth outcomes.

(d) An eligible regional collaborative that receives a subgrant under this section must report to the grant recipient by January 15 of each year on the services and programs funded by the subgrant. The report must include measurable outcomes for the previous year, including the number of pregnant women served and the number of toxic-free babies born. The grant recipient must compile the information in the subgrant reports and submit a summary report to the commissioner of human services by February 15 of each year.

Sec. 10.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256.975, subdivision 12, is amended to read:

Subd. 12.

Self-directed caregiver grants.

Beginning on July 1, 2019, The Minnesota Board on Aging shall, in consultation with area agencies on aging and other community caregiver stakeholders, administer self-directed caregiver grants to support at-risk family caregivers of older adults or others eligible under the Older Americans Act of 1965, United States Code, title 42, chapter 35, sections 3001 to 3058ff, to sustain family caregivers in the caregivers' roles so older adults can remain at home longer. The board shall give priority to consumers referred under section 256.975, subdivision 7, paragraph (d) The board shall submit by January 15, 2022, and each January 15 thereafter, a progress report on the self-directed caregiver grants program to the chairs and ranking minority members of the senate and house of representatives committees and divisions with jurisdiction over human services. The progress report must include metrics on the use of the grant program.

Sec. 11.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 256B.056, subdivision 5c, is amended to read:

Subd. 5c.

Excess income standard.

(a) The excess income standard for parents and caretaker relatives, pregnant women, infants, and children ages two through 20 is the standard specified in subdivision 4, paragraph (b).

(b) The excess income standard for a person whose eligibility is based on blindness, disability, or age of 65 or more years shall equal:

(1) 81 percent of the federal poverty guidelines; and

(2) effective July 1, 2022, 100 percent of the federal poverty guidelines the standard specified in subdivision 4, paragraph (a).

Sec. 12.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 256B.0625, subdivision 5m, is amended to read:

Subd. 5m.

Certified community behavioral health clinic services.

(a) Medical assistance covers certified community behavioral health clinic (CCBHC) services that meet the requirements of section 245.735, subdivision 3.

(b) The commissioner shall establish standards and methodologies for a prospective payment system for medical assistance payments for services delivered by a CCBHC, in accordance with guidance issued by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The commissioner shall include a quality bonus payment in the prospective payment system based on federal criteria. There is no county share for medical assistance services when reimbursed through the CCBHC prospective payment system.

(c) To the extent allowed by federal law, the commissioner may limit the number of CCBHCs for the prospective payment system in paragraph (b) to ensure that the projected claims do not exceed the money appropriated for this purpose. The commissioner shall apply the following priorities, in the order listed, to give preference to clinics that:

(1) provide a comprehensive range of services and evidence-based practices for all age groups, with services being fully coordinated and integrated;

(2) are certified as CCBHCs during the federal section 223 CCBHC demonstration period;

(3) receive CCBHC grants from the United States Department of Health and Human Services; or

(4) focus on serving individuals in tribal areas and other underserved communities.

(d) (c) Unless otherwise indicated in applicable federal requirements, the prospective payment system must continue to be based on the federal instructions issued for the federal section 223 CCBHC demonstration, except:

(1) the commissioner shall rebase CCBHC rates at least every three years;

(2) the commissioner shall provide for a 60-day appeals process of the rebasing;

(3) the prohibition against inclusion of new facilities in the demonstration does not apply after the demonstration ends;

(4) the prospective payment rate under this section does not apply to services rendered by CCBHCs to individuals who are dually eligible for Medicare and medical assistance when Medicare is the primary payer for the service. An entity that receives a prospective payment system rate that overlaps with the CCBHC rate is not eligible for the CCBHC rate;

(5) payments for CCBHC services to individuals enrolled in managed care shall be coordinated with the state's phase-out of CCBHC wrap payments;

(6) initial prospective payment rates for CCBHCs certified after July 1, 2019, shall be based on rates for comparable CCBHCs. If no comparable provider exists, the commissioner shall compute a CCBHC-specific rate based upon the CCBHC's audited costs adjusted for changes in the scope of services; and

(7) the prospective payment rate for each CCBHC shall be adjusted annually by the Medicare Economic Index as defined for the federal section 223 CCBHC demonstration.; and

(8) the commissioner shall seek federal approval for a CCBHC rate methodology that allows for rate modifications based on changes in scope for an individual CCBHC, including for changes to the type, intensity, or duration of services. Upon federal approval, a CCBHC may submit a change of scope request to the commissioner if the change in scope would result in a change of 2.5 percent or more in the prospective payment system rate currently received by the CCBHC. CCBHC change of scope requests must be according to a format and timeline to be determined by the commissioner in consultation with CCBHCs.

(d) Managed care plans and county-based purchasing plans shall reimburse CCBHC providers at the prospective payment rate. The commissioner shall monitor the effect of this requirement on the rate of access to the services delivered by CCBHC providers. If, for any contract year, federal approval is not received for this paragraph, the commissioner must adjust the capitation rates paid to managed care plans and county-based purchasing plans for that contract year to reflect the removal of this provision. Contracts between managed care plans and county-based purchasing plans and providers to whom this paragraph applies must allow recovery of payments from those providers if capitation rates are adjusted in accordance with this paragraph. Payment recoveries must not exceed the amount equal to any increase in rates that results from this provision. This paragraph expires if federal approval is not received for this paragraph at any time.

Sec. 13.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0625, subdivision 56a, is amended to read:

Subd. 56a.

Post-arrest Officer-involved community-based service care coordination.

(a) Medical assistance covers post-arrest officer-involved community-based service care coordination for an individual who:

(1) has been identified as having screened positive for benefiting from treatment for a mental illness or substance use disorder using a screening tool approved by the commissioner;

(2) does not require the security of a public detention facility and is not considered an inmate of a public institution as defined in Code of Federal Regulations, title 42, section 435.1010;

(3) meets the eligibility requirements in section 256B.056; and

(4) has agreed to participate in post-arrest officer-involved community-based service care coordination through a diversion contract in lieu of incarceration.

(b) Post-arrest Officer-involved community-based service care coordination means navigating services to address a client's mental health, chemical health, social, economic, and housing needs, or any other activity targeted at reducing the incidence of jail utilization and connecting individuals with existing covered services available to them, including, but not limited to, targeted case management, waiver case management, or care coordination.

(c) Post-arrest Officer-involved community-based service care coordination must be provided by an individual who is an employee of a county or is under contract with a county, or is an employee of or under contract with an Indian health service facility or facility owned and operated by a tribe or a tribal organization operating under Public Law 93-638 as a 638 facility to provide post-arrest officer-involved community-based care coordination and is qualified under one of the following criteria:

(1) a licensed mental health professional as defined in section 245.462, subdivision 18, clauses (1) to (6);

(2) a mental health practitioner as defined in section 245.462, subdivision 17, working under the clinical supervision of a mental health professional; or

(3) a certified peer specialist under section 256B.0615, working under the clinical supervision of a mental health professional.;

(4) an individual qualified as an alcohol and drug counselor under section 245G.11, subdivision 5; or

(5) a recovery peer qualified under section 245G.11, subdivision 8, working under the supervision of an individual qualified as an alcohol and drug counselor under section 245G.11, subdivision 5.

(d) Reimbursement is allowed for up to 60 days following the initial determination of eligibility.

(e) Providers of post-arrest officer-involved community-based service care coordination shall annually report to the commissioner on the number of individuals served, and number of the community-based services that were accessed by recipients. The commissioner shall ensure that services and payments provided under post-arrest officer-involved community-based service care coordination do not duplicate services or payments provided under section 256B.0625, subdivision 20, 256B.0753, 256B.0755, or 256B.0757.

(f) Notwithstanding section 256B.19, subdivision 1, the nonfederal share of cost for post-arrest officer-involved community-based service care coordination services shall be provided by the county providing the services, from sources other than federal funds or funds used to match other federal funds.

Sec. 14.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0653, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Skilled nurse visit services.

(a) Skilled nurse visit services must be provided by a registered nurse or a licensed practical nurse under the supervision of a registered nurse, according to the written plan of care and accepted standards of medical and nursing practice according to chapter 148. Skilled nurse visit services must be ordered by a physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or physician assistant and documented in a plan of care that is reviewed and approved by the ordering physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or physician assistant practitioner at least once every 60 days. All skilled nurse visits must be medically necessary and provided in the recipient's home residence or in the community where normal life activities take the recipient, except as allowed under section 256B.0625, subdivision 6a.

(b) Skilled nurse visits include face-to-face and telehomecare visits with a limit of up to two visits per day per recipient. All visits must be based on assessed needs.

(c) Telehomecare skilled nurse visits are allowed when the recipient's health status can be accurately measured and assessed without a need for a face-to-face, hands-on encounter. All telehomecare skilled nurse visits must have authorization and are paid at the same allowable rates as face-to-face skilled nurse visits.

(d) The provision of telehomecare must be made via live, two-way interactive audiovisual technology and may be augmented by utilizing store-and-forward technologies. Individually identifiable patient data obtained through real-time or store-and-forward technology must be maintained as health records according to sections 144.291 to 144.298. If the video is used for research, training, or other purposes unrelated to the care of the patient, the identity of the patient must be concealed.

(e) Authorization for skilled nurse visits must be completed under section 256B.0652. A total of nine face-to-face skilled nurse visits per calendar year do not require authorization. All telehomecare skilled nurse visits require authorization.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 15.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0653, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Home care therapies.

(a) Home care therapies include the following: physical therapy, occupational therapy, respiratory therapy, and speech and language pathology therapy services.

(b) Home care therapies must be:

(1) provided in the recipient's residence or in the community where normal life activities take the recipient after it has been determined the recipient is unable to access outpatient therapy;

(2) prescribed, ordered, or referred by a physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or physician assistant, and documented in a plan of care and reviewed, according to Minnesota Rules, part 9505.0390;

(3) assessed by an appropriate therapist; and

(4) provided by a Medicare-certified home health agency enrolled as a Medicaid provider agency.

(c) Restorative and specialized maintenance therapies must be provided according to Minnesota Rules, part 9505.0390. Physical and occupational therapy assistants may be used as allowed under Minnesota Rules, part 9505.0390, subpart 1, item B.

(d) For both physical and occupational therapies, the therapist and the therapist's assistant may not both bill for services provided to a recipient on the same day.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 16.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0653, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7.

Face-to-face encounter.

(a) A face-to-face encounter by a qualifying provider must be completed for all home health services regardless of the need for prior authorization, except when providing a onetime perinatal visit by skilled nursing. The face-to-face encounter may occur through telemedicine as defined in section 256B.0625, subdivision 3b. The encounter must be related to the primary reason the recipient requires home health services and must occur within the 90 days before or the 30 days after the start of services. The face-to-face encounter may be conducted by one of the following practitioners, licensed in Minnesota:

(1) a physician;

(2) a nurse practitioner or clinical nurse specialist; an advanced practice registered nurse; or

(3) a certified nurse midwife; or

(4) (3) a physician assistant.

(b) The allowed nonphysician practitioner, as described in this subdivision, performing the face-to-face encounter but who is not the ordering practitioner must communicate the clinical findings of that face-to-face encounter to the ordering physician practitioner. Those The clinical findings of that face-to-face encounter must be incorporated into a written or electronic document included in the recipient's medical record. To assure clinical correlation between the face-to-face encounter and the associated home health services, the physician practitioner responsible for ordering the services must:

(1) document that the face-to-face encounter, which is related to the primary reason the recipient requires home health services, occurred within the required time period; and

(2) indicate the practitioner who conducted the encounter and the date of the encounter.

(c) For home health services requiring authorization, including prior authorization, home health agencies must retain the qualifying documentation of a face-to-face encounter as part of the recipient health service record, and submit the qualifying documentation to the commissioner or the commissioner's designee upon request.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 17.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0654, subdivision 1, as amended by Laws 2020, chapter 115, article 4, section 121, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Definitions.

(a) "Complex home care nursing" means home care nursing services provided to recipients who meet the criteria for regular home care nursing and require life-sustaining interventions to reduce the risk of long-term injury or death.

(b) "Home care nursing" means ongoing hourly nursing ordered by a physician or, advanced practice registered nurse, or physician assistant and services performed by a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse within the scope of practice as defined by the Minnesota Nurse Practice Act under sections 148.171 to 148.285, in order to maintain or restore a person's health.

(c) "Home care nursing agency" means a medical assistance enrolled provider licensed under chapter 144A to provide home care nursing services.

(d) "Regular home care nursing" means home care nursing provided because:

(1) the recipient requires more individual and continuous care than can be provided during a skilled nurse visit; or

(2) the cares are outside of the scope of services that can be provided by a home health aide or personal care assistant.

(e) "Shared home care nursing" means the provision of home care nursing services by a home care nurse to two recipients at the same time and in the same setting.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 18.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0654, subdivision 2a, as amended by Laws 2020, chapter 115, article 4, section 122, is amended to read:

Subd. 2a.

Home care nursing services.

(a) Home care nursing services must be used:

(1) in the recipient's home or outside the home when normal life activities require;

(2) when the recipient requires more individual and continuous care than can be provided during a skilled nurse visit; and

(3) when the care required is outside of the scope of services that can be provided by a home health aide or personal care assistant.

(b) Home care nursing services must be:

(1) assessed by a registered nurse on a form approved by the commissioner;

(2) ordered by a physician or, advanced practice registered nurse, or physician assistant and documented in a plan of care that is reviewed by the physician ordering practitioner at least once every 60 days; and

(3) authorized by the commissioner under section 256B.0652.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 19.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0654, subdivision 3, as amended by Laws 2020, chapter 115, article 4, section 123, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Shared home care nursing option.

(a) Medical assistance payments for shared home care nursing services by a home care nurse shall be limited according to this subdivision. Unless otherwise provided in this subdivision, all other statutory and regulatory provisions relating to home care nursing services apply to shared home care nursing services. Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to reduce the total number of home care nursing hours authorized for an individual recipient.

(b) Shared home care nursing is the provision of nursing services by a home care nurse to two medical assistance eligible recipients at the same time and in the same setting. This subdivision does not apply when a home care nurse is caring for multiple recipients in more than one setting.

(c) For the purposes of this subdivision, "setting" means:

(1) the home residence or foster care home of one of the individual recipients as defined in section 256B.0651;

(2) a child care program licensed under chapter 245A or operated by a local school district or private school;

(3) an adult day care service licensed under chapter 245A; or

(4) outside the home residence or foster care home of one of the recipients when normal life activities take the recipients outside the home.

(d) The home care nursing agency must offer the recipient the option of shared or one-on-one home care nursing services. The recipient may withdraw from participating in a shared service arrangement at any time.

(e) The recipient or the recipient's legal representative, and the recipient's physician or, advanced practice registered nurse, or physician assistant, in conjunction with the home care nursing agency, shall determine:

(1) whether shared home care nursing care is an appropriate option based on the individual needs and preferences of the recipient; and

(2) the amount of shared home care nursing services authorized as part of the overall authorization of nursing services.

(f) The recipient or the recipient's legal representative, in conjunction with the home care nursing agency, shall approve the setting, grouping, and arrangement of shared home care nursing care based on the individual needs and preferences of the recipients. Decisions on the selection of recipients to share services must be based on the ages of the recipients, compatibility, and coordination of their care needs.

(g) The following items must be considered by the recipient or the recipient's legal representative and the home care nursing agency, and documented in the recipient's health service record:

(1) the additional training needed by the home care nurse to provide care to two recipients in the same setting and to ensure that the needs of the recipients are met appropriately and safely;

(2) the setting in which the shared home care nursing care will be provided;

(3) the ongoing monitoring and evaluation of the effectiveness and appropriateness of the service and process used to make changes in service or setting;

(4) a contingency plan which accounts for absence of the recipient in a shared home care nursing setting due to illness or other circumstances;

(5) staffing backup contingencies in the event of employee illness or absence; and

(6) arrangements for additional assistance to respond to urgent or emergency care needs of the recipients.

(h) The documentation for shared home care nursing must be on a form approved by the commissioner for each individual recipient sharing home care nursing. The documentation must be part of the recipient's health service record and include:

(1) permission by the recipient or the recipient's legal representative for the maximum number of shared nursing hours per week chosen by the recipient and permission for shared home care nursing services provided in and outside the recipient's home residence;

(2) revocation by the recipient or the recipient's legal representative for the shared home care nursing permission, or services provided to others in and outside the recipient's residence; and

(3) daily documentation of the shared home care nursing services provided by each identified home care nurse, including:

(i) the names of each recipient receiving shared home care nursing services;

(ii) the setting for the shared services, including the starting and ending times that the recipient received shared home care nursing care; and

(iii) notes by the home care nurse regarding changes in the recipient's condition, problems that may arise from the sharing of home care nursing services, and scheduling and care issues.

(i) The commissioner shall provide a rate methodology for shared home care nursing. For two persons sharing nursing care, the rate paid to a provider must not exceed 1.5 times the regular home care nursing rates paid for serving a single individual by a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse. These rates apply only to situations in which both recipients are present and receive shared home care nursing care on the date for which the service is billed.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 20.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0654, subdivision 4, as amended by Laws 2020, chapter 115, article 4, section 124, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Hardship criteria; home care nursing.

(a) Payment is allowed for extraordinary services that require specialized nursing skills and are provided by parents of minor children, family foster parents, spouses, and legal guardians who are providing home care nursing care under the following conditions:

(1) the provision of these services is not legally required of the parents, spouses, or legal guardians;

(2) the services are necessary to prevent hospitalization of the recipient; and

(3) the recipient is eligible for state plan home care or a home and community-based waiver and one of the following hardship criteria are met:

(i) the parent, spouse, or legal guardian resigns from a part-time or full-time job to provide nursing care for the recipient;

(ii) the parent, spouse, or legal guardian goes from a full-time to a part-time job with less compensation to provide nursing care for the recipient;

(iii) the parent, spouse, or legal guardian takes a leave of absence without pay to provide nursing care for the recipient; or

(iv) because of labor conditions, special language needs, or intermittent hours of care needed, the parent, spouse, or legal guardian is needed in order to provide adequate home care nursing services to meet the medical needs of the recipient.

(b) Home care nursing may be provided by a parent, spouse, family foster parent, or legal guardian who is a nurse licensed in Minnesota. Home care nursing services provided by a parent, spouse, family foster parent, or legal guardian cannot be used in lieu of nursing services covered and available under liable third-party payors, including Medicare. The home care nursing provided by a parent, spouse, family foster parent, or legal guardian must be included in the service agreement. Authorized nursing services for a single recipient or recipients with the same residence and provided by the parent, spouse, family foster parent, or legal guardian may not exceed 50 percent of the total approved nursing hours, or eight hours per day, whichever is less, up to a maximum of 40 hours per week. A parent or parents, spouse, family foster parent, or legal guardian shall not provide more than 40 hours of services in a seven-day period. For parents, family foster parents, and legal guardians, 40 hours is the total amount allowed regardless of the number of children or adults who receive services. Nothing in this subdivision precludes the parent's, spouse's, or legal guardian's obligation of assuming the nonreimbursed family responsibilities of emergency backup caregiver and primary caregiver.

(c) A parent, family foster parent, or a spouse may not be paid to provide home care nursing care if:

(1) the parent or spouse fails to pass a criminal background check according to chapter 245C;

(2) it has been determined by the home care nursing agency, the case manager, or the physician or, advanced practice registered nurse, or physician assistant that the home care nursing provided by the parent, family foster parent, spouse, or legal guardian is unsafe; or

(3) the parent, family foster parent, spouse, or legal guardian does not follow physician or, advanced practice registered nurse, or physician assistant orders.

(d) For purposes of this section, "assessment" means a review and evaluation of a recipient's need for home care services conducted in person. Assessments for home care nursing must be conducted by a registered nurse.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 21.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 256B.0711, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Definitions.

For purposes of this section:

(a) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of human services unless otherwise indicated.

(b) "Covered program" means a program to provide direct support services funded in whole or in part by the state of Minnesota, including the community first services and supports program under section 256B.85, subdivision 2, paragraph (e); consumer directed consumer-directed community supports services and extended state plan personal care assistance services available under programs established pursuant to home and community-based service waivers authorized under section 1915(c) of the Social Security Act, and Minnesota Statutes, including, but not limited to, chapter 256S and sections 256B.092 and 256B.49, and under the alternative care program, as offered pursuant to under section 256B.0913; the personal care assistance choice program, as established pursuant to under section 256B.0659, subdivisions 18 to 20; and any similar program that may provide similar services in the future.

(c) "Direct support services" means personal care assistance services covered by medical assistance under section 256B.0625, subdivisions 19a and 19c; assistance with activities of daily living as defined in section 256B.0659, subdivision 1, paragraph (b), and instrumental activities of daily living as defined in section 256B.0659, subdivision 1, paragraph (i); and other similar, in-home, nonprofessional long-term services and supports provided to an elderly person or person with a disability by the person's employee or the employee of the person's representative to meet such person's daily living needs and ensure that such person may adequately function in the person's home and have safe access to the community.

(d) "Individual provider" means an individual selected by and working under the direction of a participant in a covered program, or a participant's representative, to provide direct support services to the participant, but does not include an employee of a provider agency, subject to the agency's direction and control commensurate with agency employee status.

(e) "Participant" means a person who receives direct support services through a covered program.

(f) "Participant's representative" means a participant's legal guardian or an individual having the authority and responsibility to act on behalf of a participant with respect to the provision of direct support services through a covered program.

Sec. 22.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0941, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Eligibility.

(a) An individual who is eligible for mental health treatment services in a psychiatric residential treatment facility must meet all of the following criteria:

(1) before admission, services are determined to be medically necessary by the state's medical review agent according to Code of Federal Regulations, title 42, section 441.152;

(2) is younger than 21 years of age at the time of admission. Services may continue until the individual meets criteria for discharge or reaches 22 years of age, whichever occurs first;

(3) has a mental health diagnosis as defined in the most recent edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders, as well as clinical evidence of severe aggression, or a finding that the individual is a risk to self or others;

(4) has functional impairment and a history of difficulty in functioning safely and successfully in the community, school, home, or job; an inability to adequately care for one's physical needs; or caregivers, guardians, or family members are unable to safely fulfill the individual's needs;

(5) requires psychiatric residential treatment under the direction of a physician to improve the individual's condition or prevent further regression so that services will no longer be needed;

(6) utilized and exhausted other community-based mental health services, or clinical evidence indicates that such services cannot provide the level of care needed; and

(7) was referred for treatment in a psychiatric residential treatment facility by a qualified mental health professional licensed as defined in section 245.4871, subdivision 27, clauses (1) to (6).

(b) A mental health professional making a referral shall submit documentation to the state's medical review agent containing all information necessary to determine medical necessity, including a standard diagnostic assessment completed within 180 days of the individual's admission. Documentation shall include evidence of family participation in the individual's treatment planning and signed consent for services The commissioner shall provide oversight and review the use of referrals for clients admitted to psychiatric residential treatment facilities to ensure that eligibility criteria, clinical services, and treatment planning reflect clinical, state, and federal standards for psychiatric residential treatment facility level of care. The commissioner shall coordinate the production of a statewide list of children and youth who meet the medical necessity criteria for psychiatric residential treatment facility level of care and who are awaiting admission. The commissioner and any recipient of the list shall not use the statewide list to direct admission of children and youth to specific facilities.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 23.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0941, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Per diem rate.

(a) The commissioner shall must establish a statewide one per diem rate per provider for psychiatric residential treatment facility services for individuals 21 years of age or younger. The rate for a provider must not exceed the rate charged by that provider for the same service to other payers. Payment must not be made to more than one entity for each individual for services provided under this section on a given day. The commissioner shall must set rates prospectively for the annual rate period. The commissioner shall must require providers to submit annual cost reports on a uniform cost reporting form and shall must use submitted cost reports to inform the rate-setting process. The cost reporting shall must be done according to federal requirements for Medicare cost reports.

(b) The following are included in the rate:

(1) costs necessary for licensure and accreditation, meeting all staffing standards for participation, meeting all service standards for participation, meeting all requirements for active treatment, maintaining medical records, conducting utilization review, meeting inspection of care, and discharge planning. The direct services costs must be determined using the actual cost of salaries, benefits, payroll taxes, and training of direct services staff and service-related transportation; and

(2) payment for room and board provided by facilities meeting all accreditation and licensing requirements for participation.

(c) A facility may submit a claim for payment outside of the per diem for professional services arranged by and provided at the facility by an appropriately licensed professional who is enrolled as a provider with Minnesota health care programs. Arranged services must be billed by the facility on a separate claim, and the facility shall be responsible for payment to the provider may be billed by either the facility or the licensed professional. These services must be included in the individual plan of care and are subject to prior authorization by the state's medical review agent.

(d) Medicaid shall must reimburse for concurrent services as approved by the commissioner to support continuity of care and successful discharge from the facility. "Concurrent services" means services provided by another entity or provider while the individual is admitted to a psychiatric residential treatment facility. Payment for concurrent services may be limited and these services are subject to prior authorization by the state's medical review agent. Concurrent services may include targeted case management, assertive community treatment, clinical care consultation, team consultation, and treatment planning.

(e) Payment rates under this subdivision shall must not include the costs of providing the following services:

(1) educational services;

(2) acute medical care or specialty services for other medical conditions;

(3) dental services; and

(4) pharmacy drug costs.

(f) For purposes of this section, "actual cost" means costs that are allowable, allocable, reasonable, and consistent with federal reimbursement requirements in Code of Federal Regulations, title 48, chapter 1, part 31, relating to for-profit entities, and the Office of Management and Budget Circular Number A-122, relating to nonprofit entities.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 1, 2020, or upon federal approval, whichever is later. The commissioner of human services shall notify the revisor of statutes when federal approval is obtained.

Sec. 24.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0944, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Definitions.

For purposes of this section, the following terms have the meanings given them.

(a) "Mental health crisis" means a child's behavioral, emotional, or psychiatric situation that, but for the provision of crisis response services to the child, would likely result in significantly reduced levels of functioning in primary activities of daily living, an emergency situation, or the child's placement in a more restrictive setting, including, but not limited to, inpatient hospitalization.

(b) "Mental health emergency" means a child's behavioral, emotional, or psychiatric situation that causes an immediate need for mental health services and is consistent with section 62Q.55. A physician, mental health professional, or crisis mental health practitioner determines a mental health crisis or emergency for medical assistance reimbursement with input from the client and the client's family, if possible.

(c) "Mental health crisis assessment" means an immediate face-to-face assessment by a physician, mental health professional, or mental health practitioner under the clinical supervision of a mental health professional, following a screening that suggests the child may be experiencing a mental health crisis or mental health emergency situation.

(d) "Mental health mobile crisis intervention services" means face-to-face, short-term intensive mental health services initiated during a mental health crisis or mental health emergency. Mental health mobile crisis services must help the recipient cope with immediate stressors, identify and utilize available resources and strengths, and begin to return to the recipient's baseline level of functioning. Mental health mobile services must be provided on site by a mobile crisis intervention team outside of an emergency room, urgent care, or an inpatient hospital setting.

(e) "Mental health crisis stabilization services" means individualized mental health services provided to a recipient following crisis intervention services that are designed to restore the recipient to the recipient's prior functional level. The individual treatment plan recommending mental health crisis stabilization must be completed by the intervention team or by staff after an inpatient or urgent care visit. Mental health crisis stabilization services may be provided in the recipient's home, the home of a family member or friend of the recipient, schools, another community setting, or a short-term supervised, licensed residential program if the service is not included in the facility's cost pool or per diem. Mental health crisis stabilization is not reimbursable when provided as part of a partial hospitalization or day treatment program.

Sec. 25.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0947, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Definitions.

For purposes of this section, the following terms have the meanings given them.

(a) "Intensive nonresidential rehabilitative mental health services" means child rehabilitative mental health services as defined in section 256B.0943, except that these services are provided by a multidisciplinary staff using a total team approach consistent with assertive community treatment, as adapted for youth, and are directed to recipients ages 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 with a serious mental illness or co-occurring mental illness and substance abuse addiction who require intensive services to prevent admission to an inpatient psychiatric hospital or placement in a residential treatment facility or who require intensive services to step down from inpatient or residential care to community-based care.

(b) "Co-occurring mental illness and substance abuse addiction" means a dual diagnosis of at least one form of mental illness and at least one substance use disorder. Substance use disorders include alcohol or drug abuse or dependence, excluding nicotine use.

(c) "Diagnostic assessment" has the meaning given to it in Minnesota Rules, part 9505.0370, subpart 11. A diagnostic assessment must be provided according to Minnesota Rules, part 9505.0372, subpart 1, and for this section must incorporate a determination of the youth's necessary level of care using a standardized functional assessment instrument approved and periodically updated by the commissioner.

(d) "Education specialist" means an individual with knowledge and experience working with youth regarding special education requirements and goals, special education plans, and coordination of educational activities with health care activities.

(e) "Housing access support" means an ancillary activity to help an individual find, obtain, retain, and move to safe and adequate housing. Housing access support does not provide monetary assistance for rent, damage deposits, or application fees.

(f) "Integrated dual disorders treatment" means the integrated treatment of co-occurring mental illness and substance use disorders by a team of cross-trained clinicians within the same program, and is characterized by assertive outreach, stage-wise comprehensive treatment, treatment goal setting, and flexibility to work within each stage of treatment.

(g) "Medication education services" means services provided individually or in groups, which focus on:

(1) educating the client and client's family or significant nonfamilial supporters about mental illness and symptoms;

(2) the role and effects of medications in treating symptoms of mental illness; and

(3) the side effects of medications.

Medication education is coordinated with medication management services and does not duplicate it. Medication education services are provided by physicians, pharmacists, or registered nurses with certification in psychiatric and mental health care.

(h) "Peer specialist" means an employed team member who is a mental health certified peer specialist according to section 256B.0615 and also a former children's mental health consumer who:

(1) provides direct services to clients including social, emotional, and instrumental support and outreach;

(2) assists younger peers to identify and achieve specific life goals;

(3) works directly with clients to promote the client's self-determination, personal responsibility, and empowerment;

(4) assists youth with mental illness to regain control over their lives and their developmental process in order to move effectively into adulthood;

(5) provides training and education to other team members, consumer advocacy organizations, and clients on resiliency and peer support; and

(6) meets the following criteria:

(i) is at least 22 years of age;

(ii) has had a diagnosis of mental illness, as defined in Minnesota Rules, part 9505.0370, subpart 20, or co-occurring mental illness and substance abuse addiction;

(iii) is a former consumer of child and adolescent mental health services, or a former or current consumer of adult mental health services for a period of at least two years;

(iv) has at least a high school diploma or equivalent;

(v) has successfully completed training requirements determined and periodically updated by the commissioner;

(vi) is willing to disclose the individual's own mental health history to team members and clients; and

(vii) must be free of substance use problems for at least one year.

(i) "Provider agency" means a for-profit or nonprofit organization established to administer an assertive community treatment for youth team.

(j) "Substance use disorders" means one or more of the disorders defined in the diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, current edition.

(k) "Transition services" means:

(1) activities, materials, consultation, and coordination that ensures continuity of the client's care in advance of and in preparation for the client's move from one stage of care or life to another by maintaining contact with the client and assisting the client to establish provider relationships;

(2) providing the client with knowledge and skills needed posttransition;

(3) establishing communication between sending and receiving entities;

(4) supporting a client's request for service authorization and enrollment; and

(5) establishing and enforcing procedures and schedules.

A youth's transition from the children's mental health system and services to the adult mental health system and services and return to the client's home and entry or re-entry into community-based mental health services following discharge from an out-of-home placement or inpatient hospital stay.

(l) "Treatment team" means all staff who provide services to recipients under this section.

(m) "Family peer specialist" means a staff person qualified under section 256B.0616.

Sec. 26.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0947, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Provider contract requirements.

(a) The intensive nonresidential rehabilitative mental health services provider agency shall have a contract with the commissioner to provide intensive transition youth rehabilitative mental health services.

(b) The commissioner shall develop administrative and clinical contract standards and performance evaluation criteria for providers, including county providers, and may require applicants and providers to submit documentation as needed to allow the commissioner to determine whether the standards criteria are met.

Sec. 27.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0947, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Standards for intensive nonresidential rehabilitative providers.

(a) Services must be provided by a provider entity as provided in subdivision 4.

(b) The treatment team for intensive nonresidential rehabilitative mental health services comprises both permanently employed core team members and client-specific team members as follows:

(1) The core treatment team is an entity that operates under the direction of an independently licensed mental health professional, who is qualified under Minnesota Rules, part 9505.0371, subpart 5, item A, and that assumes comprehensive clinical responsibility for clients. Based on professional qualifications and client needs, clinically qualified core team members are assigned on a rotating basis as the client's lead worker to coordinate a client's care. The core team must comprise at least four full-time equivalent direct care staff and must include, but is not limited to:

(i) an independently licensed mental health professional, qualified under Minnesota Rules, part 9505.0371, subpart 5, item A, who serves as team leader to provide administrative direction and clinical supervision to the team;

(ii) an advanced-practice registered nurse with certification in psychiatric or mental health care or a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist, either of which must be credentialed to prescribe medications;

(iii) a licensed alcohol and drug counselor who is also trained in mental health interventions; and

(iv) a peer specialist as defined in subdivision 2, paragraph (h).

(2) The core team may also include any of the following:

(i) additional mental health professionals;

(ii) a vocational specialist;

(iii) an educational specialist;

(iv) a child and adolescent psychiatrist who may be retained on a consultant basis;

(v) a mental health practitioner, as defined in section 245.4871, subdivision 26;

(vi) a mental health manager case management service provider, as defined in section 245.4871, subdivision 4; and

(vii) a housing access specialist; and

(viii) a family peer specialist as defined in subdivision 2, paragraph (m).

(3) A treatment team may include, in addition to those in clause (1) or (2), ad hoc members not employed by the team who consult on a specific client and who must accept overall clinical direction from the treatment team for the duration of the client's placement with the treatment team and must be paid by the provider agency at the rate for a typical session by that provider with that client or at a rate negotiated with the client-specific member. Client-specific treatment team members may include:

(i) the mental health professional treating the client prior to placement with the treatment team;

(ii) the client's current substance abuse counselor, if applicable;

(iii) a lead member of the client's individualized education program team or school-based mental health provider, if applicable;

(iv) a representative from the client's health care home or primary care clinic, as needed to ensure integration of medical and behavioral health care;

(v) the client's probation officer or other juvenile justice representative, if applicable; and

(vi) the client's current vocational or employment counselor, if applicable.

(c) The clinical supervisor shall be an active member of the treatment team and shall function as a practicing clinician at least on a part-time basis. The treatment team shall meet with the clinical supervisor at least weekly to discuss recipients' progress and make rapid adjustments to meet recipients' needs. The team meeting must include client-specific case reviews and general treatment discussions among team members. Client-specific case reviews and planning must be documented in the individual client's treatment record.

(d) The staffing ratio must not exceed ten clients to one full-time equivalent treatment team position.

(e) The treatment team shall serve no more than 80 clients at any one time. Should local demand exceed the team's capacity, an additional team must be established rather than exceed this limit.

(f) Nonclinical staff shall have prompt access in person or by telephone to a mental health practitioner or mental health professional. The provider shall have the capacity to promptly and appropriately respond to emergent needs and make any necessary staffing adjustments to assure ensure the health and safety of clients.

(g) The intensive nonresidential rehabilitative mental health services provider shall participate in evaluation of the assertive community treatment for youth (Youth ACT) model as conducted by the commissioner, including the collection and reporting of data and the reporting of performance measures as specified by contract with the commissioner.

(h) A regional treatment team may serve multiple counties.

Sec. 28.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0947, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Service standards.

The standards in this subdivision apply to intensive nonresidential rehabilitative mental health services.

(a) The treatment team shall must use team treatment, not an individual treatment model.

(b) Services must be available at times that meet client needs.

(c) Services must be age-appropriate and meet the specific needs of the client.

(c) (d) The initial functional assessment must be completed within ten days of intake and updated at least every three six months or prior to discharge from the service, whichever comes first.

(d) (e) An individual treatment plan must be completed for each client, according to criteria specified in section 256B.0943, subdivision 6, paragraph (b), clause (2), and, additionally, must:

(1) be based on the information in the client's diagnostic assessment and baselines;

(2) identify goals and objectives of treatment, a treatment strategy, a schedule for accomplishing treatment goals and objectives, and the individuals responsible for providing treatment services and supports;

(3) be developed after completion of the client's diagnostic assessment by a mental health professional or clinical trainee and before the provision of children's therapeutic services and supports;

(4) be developed through a child-centered, family-driven, culturally appropriate planning process, including allowing parents and guardians to observe or participate in individual and family treatment services, assessments, and treatment planning;

(5) be reviewed at least once every six months and revised to document treatment progress on each treatment objective and next goals or, if progress is not documented, to document changes in treatment;

(6) be signed by the clinical supervisor and by the client or by the client's parent or other person authorized by statute to consent to mental health services for the client. A client's parent may approve the client's individual treatment plan by secure electronic signature or by documented oral approval that is later verified by written signature;

(1) (7) be completed in consultation with the client's current therapist and key providers and provide for ongoing consultation with the client's current therapist to ensure therapeutic continuity and to facilitate the client's return to the community. For clients under the age of 18, the treatment team must consult with parents and guardians in developing the treatment plan;

(2) (8) if a need for substance use disorder treatment is indicated by validated assessment:

(i) identify goals, objectives, and strategies of substance use disorder treatment; develop a schedule for accomplishing treatment goals and objectives; and identify the individuals responsible for providing treatment services and supports;

(ii) be reviewed at least once every 90 days and revised, if necessary;

(3) (9) be signed by the clinical supervisor and by the client and, if the client is a minor, by the client's parent or other person authorized by statute to consent to mental health treatment and substance use disorder treatment for the client; and

(4) (10) provide for the client's transition out of intensive nonresidential rehabilitative mental health services by defining the team's actions to assist the client and subsequent providers in the transition to less intensive or "stepped down" services.

(e) (f) The treatment team shall actively and assertively engage the client's family members and significant others by establishing communication and collaboration with the family and significant others and educating the family and significant others about the client's mental illness, symptom management, and the family's role in treatment, unless the team knows or has reason to suspect that the client has suffered or faces a threat of suffering any physical or mental injury, abuse, or neglect from a family member or significant other.

(f) (g) For a client age 18 or older, the treatment team may disclose to a family member, other relative, or a close personal friend of the client, or other person identified by the client, the protected health information directly relevant to such person's involvement with the client's care, as provided in Code of Federal Regulations, title 45, part 164.502(b). If the client is present, the treatment team shall obtain the client's agreement, provide the client with an opportunity to object, or reasonably infer from the circumstances, based on the exercise of professional judgment, that the client does not object. If the client is not present or is unable, by incapacity or emergency circumstances, to agree or object, the treatment team may, in the exercise of professional judgment, determine whether the disclosure is in the best interests of the client and, if so, disclose only the protected health information that is directly relevant to the family member's, relative's, friend's, or client-identified person's involvement with the client's health care. The client may orally agree or object to the disclosure and may prohibit or restrict disclosure to specific individuals.

(g) (h) The treatment team shall provide interventions to promote positive interpersonal relationships.

Sec. 29.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.49, subdivision 16, is amended to read:

Subd. 16.

Services and supports.

(a) Services and supports included in the home and community-based waivers for persons with disabilities shall must meet the requirements set out in United States Code, title 42, section 1396n. The services and supports, which are offered as alternatives to institutional care, shall must promote consumer choice, community inclusion, self-sufficiency, and self-determination.

(b) Beginning January 1, 2003, The commissioner shall must simplify and improve access to home and community-based waivered services, to the extent possible, through the establishment of a common service menu that is available to eligible recipients regardless of age, disability type, or waiver program.

(c) Consumer directed community support services shall Consumer-directed community supports must be offered as an option to all persons eligible for services under subdivision 11, by January 1, 2002.

(d) Services and supports shall must be arranged and provided consistent with individualized written plans of care for eligible waiver recipients.

(e) A transitional supports allowance shall must be available to all persons under a home and community-based waiver who are moving from a licensed setting to a community setting. "Transitional supports allowance" means a onetime payment of up to $3,000, to cover the costs, not covered by other sources, associated with moving from a licensed setting to a community setting. Covered costs include:

(1) lease or rent deposits;

(2) security deposits;

(3) utilities setup costs, including telephone;

(4) essential furnishings and supplies; and

(5) personal supports and transports needed to locate and transition to community settings.

(f) The state of Minnesota and county agencies that administer home and community-based waivered services for persons with disabilities, shall must not be liable for damages, injuries, or liabilities sustained through the purchase of supports by the individual, the individual's family, legal representative, or the authorized representative with funds received through the consumer-directed community support service supports under this section. Liabilities include but are not limited to: workers' compensation liability, the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA), or the Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA).

Sec. 30.

[256B.4911] CONSUMER-DIRECTED COMMUNITY SUPPORTS.

Subdivision 1.

Federal authority.

Consumer-directed community supports, as referenced in sections 256B.0913, subdivision 5, clause (17); 256B.092, subdivision 1b, clause (4); 256B.49, subdivision 16, paragraph (c); and chapter 256S are governed, in whole, by the federally-approved waiver plans for home and community-based services.

Subd. 2.

Costs associated with physical activities.

The expenses allowed for adults under the consumer-directed community supports option must include the costs at the lowest rate available considering daily, monthly, semiannual, annual, or membership rates, including transportation, associated with physical exercise or other physical activities to maintain or improve the person's health and functioning.

Subd. 3.

Expansion and increase of budget exceptions.

(a) The commissioner of human services must provide up to 30 percent more funds for either:

(1) consumer-directed community supports participants under sections 256B.092 and 256B.49 who have a coordinated service and support plan which identifies the need for more services or supports under consumer-directed community supports than the amount the participants are currently receiving under the consumer-directed community supports budget methodology to:

(i) increase the amount of time a person works or otherwise improves employment opportunities;

(ii) plan a transition to, move to, or live in a setting described in section 256D.44, subdivision 5, paragraph (g), clause (1), item (iii); or

(iii) develop and implement a positive behavior support plan; or

(2) home and community-based waiver participants under sections 256B.092 and 256B.49 who are currently using licensed providers for: (i) employment supports or services during the day; or (ii) residential services, either of which cost more annually than the person would spend under a consumer-directed community supports plan for any or all of the supports needed to meet a goal identified in clause (1), item (i), (ii), or (iii).

(b) The exception under paragraph (a), clause (1), is limited to persons who can demonstrate that they will have to discontinue using consumer-directed community supports and accept other non-self-directed waiver services because their supports needed for a goal described in paragraph (a), clause (1), item (i), (ii), or (iii), cannot be met within the consumer-directed community supports budget limits.

(c) The exception under paragraph (a), clause (2), is limited to persons who can demonstrate that, upon choosing to become a consumer-directed community supports participant, the total cost of services, including the exception, will be less than the cost of current waiver services.

Subd. 4.

Budget exception for persons leaving institutions and crisis residential settings.

(a) The commissioner must establish an institutional and crisis bed consumer-directed community supports budget exception process in the home and community-based services waivers under sections 256B.092 and 256B.49. This budget exception process must be available for any individual who:

(1) is not offered available and appropriate services within 60 days since approval for discharge from the individual's current institutional setting; and

(2) requires services that are more expensive than appropriate services provided in a noninstitutional setting using the consumer-directed community supports option.

(b) Institutional settings for purposes of this exception include intermediate care facilities for persons with developmental disabilities; nursing facilities; acute care hospitals; Anoka Metro Regional Treatment Center; Minnesota Security Hospital; and crisis beds.

(c) The budget exception must be limited to no more than the amount of appropriate services provided in a noninstitutional setting as determined by the lead agency managing the individual's home and community-based services waiver. The lead agency must notify the Department of Human Services of the budget exception.

Subd. 5.

Shared services.

(a) Medical assistance payments for shared services under consumer-directed community supports are limited to this subdivision.

(b) For purposes of this subdivision, "shared services" means services provided at the same time by the same direct care worker for individuals who have entered into an agreement to share consumer-directed community support services.

(c) Shared services may include services in the personal assistance category as outlined in the consumer-directed community supports community support plan and shared services agreement, except:

(1) services for more than three individuals provided by one worker at one time;

(2) use of more than one worker for the shared services; and

(3) a child care program licensed under chapter 245A or operated by a local school district or private school.

(d) The individuals, or as needed the individuals' representatives, must develop the plan for shared services when developing or amending the consumer-directed community supports plan, and must follow the consumer-directed community supports process for approval of the plan by the lead agency. The plan for shared services in an individual's consumer-directed community supports plan must include the intention to utilize shared services based on individuals' needs and preferences.

(e) Individuals sharing services must use the same financial management services provider.

(f) Individuals whose consumer-directed community supports community support plans include an intent to utilize shared services must jointly develop, with the support of the individuals' representatives as needed, a shared services agreement. This agreement must include:

(1) the names of the individuals receiving shared services;

(2) the individuals' representative, if identified in their consumer-directed community supports plans, and their duties;

(3) the names of the case managers;

(4) the financial management services provider;

(5) the shared services that must be provided;

(6) the schedule for shared services;

(7) the location where shared services must be provided;

(8) the training specific to each individual served;

(9) the training specific to providing shared services to the individuals identified in the agreement;

(10) instructions to follow all required documentation for time and services provided;

(11) a contingency plan for each individual that accounts for service provision and billing in the absence of one of the individuals in a shared services setting due to illness or other circumstances;

(12) signatures of all parties involved in the shared services; and

(13) agreement by each individual who is sharing services on the number of shared hours for services provided.

(g) Any individual or any individual's representative may withdraw from participating in a shared services agreement at any time.

(h) The lead agency for each individual must authorize the use of the shared services option based on the criteria that the shared service is appropriate to meet the needs, health, and safety of each individual for whom they provide case management or care coordination.

(i) This subdivision must not be construed to reduce the total authorized consumer-directed community supports budget for an individual.

(j) No later than September 30, 2019, the commissioner of human services must:

(1) submit an amendment to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for the home and community-based services waivers authorized under sections 256B.0913, 256B.092, and 256B.49, and chapter 256S, to allow for a shared services option under consumer-directed community supports; and

(2) with stakeholder input, develop guidance for shared services in consumer-directed community supports within the community-based services manual. Guidance must include:

(i) recommendations for negotiating payment for one-to-two and one-to-three services; and

(ii) a template of the shared services agreement.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment, except for subdivision 5, paragraphs (a) to (i), which are effective the day following final enactment or upon federal approval, whichever occurs later. The commissioner of human services must notify the revisor of statutes when federal approval is obtained.

Sec. 31.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 256S.01, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Immunity; consumer-directed community supports.

The state of Minnesota, or a county, managed care plan, county-based purchasing plan, or tribal government under contract to administer the elderly waiver, is not liable for damages, injuries, or liabilities sustained as a result of the participant, the participant's family, or the participant's authorized representatives purchasing direct supports or goods with funds received through consumer-directed community support services supports under the elderly waiver. Liabilities include, but are not limited to, workers' compensation liability, Federal Insurance Contributions Act under United States Code, title 26, subtitle c, chapter 21, or Federal Unemployment Tax Act under Internal Revenue Code, chapter 23.

Sec. 32.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 256S.19, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Calculation of monthly conversion budget cap with consumer-directed community supports.

For the elderly waiver monthly conversion budget cap for the cost of elderly waiver services with consumer-directed community support services supports, the nursing facility case mix adjusted total payment rate used under subdivision 3 to calculate the monthly conversion budget cap for elderly waiver services without consumer-directed community supports must be reduced by a percentage equal to the percentage difference between the consumer-directed services community supports budget limit that would be assigned according to the elderly waiver plan and the corresponding monthly case mix budget cap under this chapter, but not to exceed 50 percent.

Sec. 33.

Laws 2019, First Special Session chapter 9, article 14, section 2, subdivision 33, is amended to read:

Subd. 33. Grant Programs; Chemical Dependency Treatment Support Grants

Appropriations by Fund
General	2,636,000	2,636,000
Lottery Prize	1,733,000	1,733,000

(a) Problem Gambling. $225,000 in fiscal year 2020 and $225,000 in fiscal year 2021 are from the lottery prize fund for a grant to the state affiliate recognized by the National Council on Problem Gambling. The affiliate must provide services to increase public awareness of problem gambling, education, and training for individuals and organizations providing effective treatment services to problem gamblers and their families, and research related to problem gambling.

(b) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Grants for Fiscal Year 2020. (1) $500,000 in fiscal year 2020 and $500,000 in fiscal year 2021 are from is from the general fund for a grant to Proof Alliance. Of this appropriation, Proof Alliance shall make grants to eligible regional collaboratives for the purposes specified in clause (3).

(2) "Eligible regional collaboratives" means a partnership between at least one local government or tribal government and at least one community-based organization and, where available, a family home visiting program. For purposes of this clause, a local government includes a county or multicounty organization, a tribal government, a county-based purchasing entity, or a community health board.

(3) Eligible regional collaboratives must use grant funds to reduce the incidence of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders and other prenatal drug-related effects in children in Minnesota by identifying and serving pregnant women suspected of or known to use or abuse alcohol or other drugs. Eligible regional collaboratives must provide intensive services to chemically dependent women to increase positive birth outcomes.

(4) Proof Alliance must make grants to eligible regional collaboratives from both rural and urban areas of the state.

(5) An eligible regional collaborative that receives a grant under this paragraph must report to Proof Alliance by January 15 of each year on the services and programs funded by the grant. The report must include measurable outcomes for the previous year, including the number of pregnant women served and the number of toxic-free babies born. Proof Alliance must compile the information in these reports and report that information to the commissioner of human services by February 15 of each year.

(c) Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Grants for Fiscal Year 2021. $500,000 in fiscal year 2021 is from the general fund for a grant under Minnesota Statutes, section 254A.21, to a statewide organization that focuses solely on prevention of and intervention with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.

Sec. 34.

TREATMENT OF PREVIOUSLY OBTAINED FEDERAL APPROVALS.

This act must not be construed to require the commissioner to seek federal approval for provisions for which the commissioner has already received federal approval. Federal approvals the commissioner previously obtained for provisions repealed in section 33 survive and apply to the corresponding subdivisions of Minnesota Statutes, section 256B.4911.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 35.

REPEALER.

(a) Laws 2005, First Special Session chapter 4, article 7, section 50, is repealed.

(b) Laws 2005, First Special Session chapter 4, article 7, section 51, is repealed.

(c) Laws 2012, chapter 247, article 4, section 47, as amended by Laws 2014, chapter 312, article 27, section 72, Laws 2015, chapter 71, article 7, section 58, Laws 2016, chapter 144, section 1, Laws 2017, First Special Session chapter 6, article 1, section 43, Laws 2017, First Special Session chapter 6, article 1, section 54, is repealed.

(d) Laws 2015, chapter 71, article 7, section 54, as amended by Laws 2017, First Special Session chapter 6, article 1, section 54, is repealed.

(e) Laws 2017, First Special Session chapter 6, article 1, section 44, as amended by Laws 2019, First Special Session chapter 9, article 5, section 80, is repealed.

(f) Laws 2017, First Special Session chapter 6, article 1, section 45, as amended by Laws 2019, First Special Session chapter 9, article 5, section 81, is repealed.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 36.

EFFECTIVE DATE; PREVIOUS ENACTMENT.

The amendments made to Minnesota Statutes, section 256B.0654, subdivisions 1, 2a, 3, and 4, by Laws 2020, chapter 115, article 4, sections 121 to 124, are effective the day following final enactment of this act.

ARTICLE 3

DISABILITY POLICY STATEMENTS

Section 1.

[256B.4905] HOME AND COMMUNITY-BASED SERVICES POLICY STATEMENT.

Subdivision 1.

Employment first policy.

It is the policy of this state that all working-age Minnesotans with disabilities can work, want to work, and can achieve competitive integrated employment, and that each working-age Minnesotan with a disability be offered the opportunity to work and earn a competitive wage before being offered other supports and services.

Subd. 2.

Employment first implementation for disability waiver services.

The commissioner of human services shall ensure that:

(1) the disability waivers under sections 256B.092 and 256B.49 support the presumption that all working-age Minnesotans with disabilities can work, want to work, and can achieve competitive integrated employment; and

(2) each waiver recipient of working age be offered, after an informed decision-making process and during a person-centered planning process, the opportunity to work and earn a competitive wage before being offered exclusively day services as defined in section 245D.03, subdivision 1, paragraph (c), clause (4), or successor provisions.

Subd. 3.

Independent living first policy.

It is the policy of this state that all adult Minnesotans with disabilities can and want to live independently with proper supports and services; and that each adult Minnesotan with a disability be offered the opportunity to live as independently as possible before being offered supports and services in provider-controlled settings.

Subd. 4.

Independent living first implementation for disability waiver services.

The commissioner of human services shall ensure that:

(1) the disability waivers under sections 256B.092 and 256B.49 support the presumption that all adult Minnesotans with disabilities can and want to live independently with proper services and supports as needed; and

(2) each adult waiver recipient be offered, after an informed decision-making process and during a person-centered planning process, the opportunity to live as independently as possible before being offered customized living services provided in a single family home or residential supports and services as defined in section 245D.03, subdivision 1, paragraph (c), clause (3), or successor provisions, unless the residential supports and services are provided in a family adult foster care residence under a shared living option as described in Laws 2013, chapter 108, article 7, section 62.

Subd. 5.

Self-direction first policy.

It is the policy of this state that adult Minnesotans with disabilities and families of children with disabilities can and want to use self-directed services and supports; and that each adult Minnesotan with a disability and each family of the child with a disability be offered the opportunity to choose self-directed services and supports before being offered services and supports that are not self-directed.

Subd. 6.

Self-directed first implementation for disability waiver services.

The commissioner of human services shall ensure that:

(1) the disability waivers under sections 256B.092 and 256B.49 support the presumption that adult Minnesotans with disabilities and families of children with disabilities can and want to use self-directed services and supports, including self-directed funding options; and

(2) each waiver recipient be offered, after an informed decision-making process and during a person-centered planning process, the opportunity to choose self-directed services and supports, including self-directed funding options, before being offered services and supports that are not self-directed.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 2.

Laws 2019, First Special Session chapter 9, article 5, section 86, is amended to read:

Sec. 86.

DISABILITY WAIVER RECONFIGURATION.

Subdivision 1.

Intent.

It is the intent of the legislature to reform the medical assistance waiver programs for people with disabilities to simplify administration of the programs,. Disability waiver reconfiguration must incentivize inclusive, person-centered, individualized supports, and services; enhance each person's self-determination and personal authority over the person's service choice,; align benefits across waivers, encourage; ensure equity across programs and populations, and; promote long-term sustainability of needed waiver services. To the maximum extent possible, the Disability waiver reconfiguration must; and maintain service stability and continuity of care, while prioritizing, promoting the most, and creating incentives for independent and, integrated, and individualized supports of each person's choosing in both short- and long-term and services chosen by each person through an informed decision-making process and person-centered planning.

Subd. 2.

Report.

By January 15, 2021, the commissioner of human services shall submit a report to the members of the legislative committees with jurisdiction over human services on any necessary waivers, state plan amendments, requests for new funding or realignment of existing funds, any changes to state statute or rule, and any other federal authority necessary to implement this section. The report must include information about the commissioner's work to collect feedback and input from providers, persons accessing home and community-based services waivers and their families, and client advocacy organizations.

Subd. 3.

Proposal.

By January 15, 2021, the commissioner shall develop a proposal to reconfigure the medical assistance waivers provided in sections 256B.092 and 256B.49. The proposal shall include all necessary plans for implementing two home and community-based services waiver programs, as authorized under section 1915(c) of the Social Security Act that serve persons who are determined to require the levels of care provided in a nursing home, a hospital, a neurobehavioral hospital, or an intermediate care facility for persons with developmental disabilities. The proposal must include in each home and community-based waiver program options to self-direct services. Before submitting the final report to the legislature, the commissioner shall publish a draft report with sufficient time for interested persons to offer additional feedback.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

ARTICLE 4

ASSESSMENT, CASE MANAGEMENT, AND SERVICE PLANNING MODIFICATIONS

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 245D.071, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Service plan review and evaluation.

(a) The license holder must give the person or the person's legal representative and, case manager, and other people as identified by the person or the person's legal representative, an opportunity to participate in the ongoing review and development of the service plan and the methods used to support the person and accomplish outcomes identified in subdivisions 3 and 4. At least once per year, or within 30 days of a written request by the person, the person's legal representative, or the case manager, the license holder, in coordination with the person's support team or expanded support team, must meet with the person, the person's legal representative, and the case manager, and other people as identified by the person or the person's legal representative, and participate in service plan review meetings following stated timelines established in the person's coordinated service and support plan or coordinated service and support plan addendum. The purpose of the service plan review is to determine whether changes are needed to the service plan based on the assessment information, the license holder's evaluation of progress towards toward accomplishing outcomes, or other information provided by the support team or expanded support team.

(b) At least once per year, the license holder, in coordination with the person's support team or expanded support team, must meet with the person, the person's legal representative, and the case manager, and other people as identified by the person or the person's legal representative to discuss how technology might be used to meet the person's desired outcomes. The coordinated service and support plan addendum must include a summary of this discussion. The summary must include a statement regarding any decision made related to the use of technology and a description of any further research that must be completed before a decision regarding the use of technology can be made. Nothing in this paragraph requires the coordinated service and support plan addendum to include the use of technology for the provision of services.

(c) At least once per year, the license holder, in coordination with the person's support team or expanded support team, must meet with a person receiving residential supports and services, the person's legal representative, the case manager, and other people as identified by the person or the person's legal representative to discuss options for transitioning out of a community setting controlled by a provider and into a setting not controlled by a provider.

(d) The coordinated service and support plan addendum must include a summary of the discussion required in paragraph (c). The summary must include a statement about any decision made regarding transitioning out of a provider-controlled setting and a description of any further research or education that must be completed before a decision regarding transitioning out of a provider-controlled setting can be made.

(e) At least once per year, the license holder, in coordination with the person's support team or expanded support team, must meet with a person receiving day services, the person's legal representative, the case manager, and other people as identified by the person or the person's legal representative to discuss options for transitioning to an employment service described in section 245D.03, subdivision 1, paragraph (c), clauses (5) to (7).

(f) The coordinated service and support plan addendum must include a summary of the discussion required in paragraph (e). The summary must include a statement about any decision made concerning transition to an employment service and a description of any further research or education that must be completed before a decision regarding transitioning to an employment service can be made.

(g) The license holder must summarize the person's status and progress toward achieving the identified outcomes and make recommendations and identify the rationale for changing, continuing, or discontinuing implementation of supports and methods identified in subdivision 4 in a report available at the time of the progress review meeting. The report must be sent at least five working days prior to the progress review meeting if requested by the team in the coordinated service and support plan or coordinated service and support plan addendum.

(d) (h) The license holder must send the coordinated service and support plan addendum to the person, the person's legal representative, and the case manager by mail within ten working days of the progress review meeting. Within ten working days of the mailing of the coordinated service and support plan addendum, the license holder must obtain dated signatures from the person or the person's legal representative and the case manager to document approval of any changes to the coordinated service and support plan addendum.

(e) (i) If, within ten working days of submitting changes to the coordinated service and support plan and coordinated service and support plan addendum, the person or the person's legal representative or case manager has not signed and returned to the license holder the coordinated service and support plan or coordinated service and support plan addendum or has not proposed written modifications to the license holder's submission, the submission is deemed approved and the coordinated service and support plan addendum becomes effective and remains in effect until the legal representative or case manager submits a written request to revise the coordinated service and support plan addendum.

Sec. 2.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0911, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Purpose and goal.

(a) The purpose of long-term care consultation services is to assist persons with long-term or chronic care needs in making care decisions and selecting support and service options that meet their needs and reflect their preferences. The availability of, and access to, information and other types of assistance, including long-term care consultation assessment and community support planning, is also intended to prevent or delay institutional placements and to provide access to transition assistance after admission placement. Further, the goal of these long-term care consultation services is to contain costs associated with unnecessary institutional admissions. Long-term consultation services must be available to any person regardless of public program eligibility.

(b) The commissioner of human services shall seek to maximize use of available federal and state funds and establish the broadest program possible within the funding available.

(b) These (c) Long-term care consultation services must be coordinated with long-term care options counseling provided under subdivision 4d, section 256.975, subdivisions 7 to 7c, and section 256.01, subdivision 24.

(d) The lead agency providing long-term care consultation services shall encourage the use of volunteers from families, religious organizations, social clubs, and similar civic and service organizations to provide community-based services.

Sec. 3.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 256B.0911, subdivision 1a, is amended to read:

Subd. 1a.

Definitions.

For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:

(a) Until additional requirements apply under paragraph (b), "long-term care consultation services" means:

(1) intake for and access to assistance in identifying services needed to maintain an individual in the most inclusive environment;

(2) providing recommendations for and referrals to cost-effective community services that are available to the individual;

(3) development of an individual's person-centered community support plan;

(4) providing information regarding eligibility for Minnesota health care programs;

(5) face-to-face long-term care consultation assessments, which may be completed in a hospital, nursing facility, intermediate care facility for persons with developmental disabilities (ICF/DDs), regional treatment centers, or the person's current or planned residence;

(6) determination of home and community-based waiver and other service eligibility as required under chapter 256S and sections 256B.0913, 256B.092, and 256B.49, including level of care determination for individuals who need an institutional level of care as determined under subdivision 4e, based on a long-term care consultation assessment and community support plan development, appropriate referrals to obtain necessary diagnostic information, and including an eligibility determination for consumer-directed community supports;

(7) providing recommendations for institutional placement when there are no cost-effective community services available;

(8) providing access to assistance to transition people back to community settings after institutional admission; and

(9) providing information about competitive employment, with or without supports, for school-age youth and working-age adults and referrals to the Disability Linkage Line and Disability Benefits 101 to ensure that an informed choice about competitive employment can be made. For the purposes of this subdivision, "competitive employment" means work in the competitive labor market that is performed on a full-time or part-time basis in an integrated setting, and for which an individual is compensated at or above the minimum wage, but not less than the customary wage and level of benefits paid by the employer for the same or similar work performed by individuals without disabilities.;

(10) providing information about independent living to ensure that an informed choice about independent living can be made; and

(11) providing information about self-directed services and supports, including self-directed funding options, to ensure that an informed choice about self-directed options can be made.

(b) Upon statewide implementation of lead agency requirements in subdivisions 2b, 2c, and 3a, "long-term care consultation services" also means:

(1) service eligibility determination for the following state plan services identified in:

(i) personal care assistance services under section 256B.0625, subdivisions 19a and 19c;

(ii) consumer support grants under section 256.476; or

(iii) community first services and supports under section 256B.85;

(2) notwithstanding provisions in Minnesota Rules, parts 9525.0004 to 9525.0024, gaining access to:

(i) relocation targeted case management services available under sections section 256B.0621, subdivision 2, clause (4),;

(ii) case management services targeted to vulnerable adults or developmental disabilities under section 256B.0924,; and

(iii) case management services targeted to people with developmental disabilities under Minnesota Rules, part 9525.0016;

(3) determination of eligibility for semi-independent living services under section 252.275; and

(4) obtaining necessary diagnostic information to determine eligibility under clauses (2) and (3).

(c) "Long-term care options counseling" means the services provided by the linkage lines as mandated by sections 256.01, subdivision 24, and 256.975, subdivision 7, and also includes telephone assistance and follow up once a long-term care consultation assessment has been completed.

(d) "Minnesota health care programs" means the medical assistance program under this chapter and the alternative care program under section 256B.0913.

(e) "Lead agencies" means counties administering or tribes and health plans under contract with the commissioner to administer long-term care consultation assessment and support planning services.

(f) "Person-centered planning" is a process that includes the active participation of a person in the planning of the person's services, including in making meaningful and informed choices about the person's own goals, talents, and objectives, as well as making meaningful and informed choices about the services the person receives. For the purposes of this section, the settings in which the person receives the services, and the setting in which the person lives.

(g) "Informed choice" means a voluntary choice of services, settings, living arrangement, and work by a person from all available service and setting options based on accurate and complete information concerning all available service and setting options and concerning the person's own preferences, abilities, goals, and objectives. In order for a person to make an informed choice, all available options must be developed and presented to the person in a way the person can understand to empower the person to make decisions fully informed choices.

(h) "Available service and setting options" or "available options," with respect to the home and community-based waivers under chapter 256S and sections 256B.092 and 256B.49, means all services and settings defined under the waiver plan for which a waiver applicant or waiver participant is eligible.

(i) "Independent living" means living in a setting that is not controlled by a provider.

Sec. 4.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 256B.0911, subdivision 3a, is amended to read:

Subd. 3a.

Assessment and support planning.

(a) Persons requesting assessment, services planning, or other assistance intended to support community-based living, including persons who need assessment in order to determine waiver or alternative care program eligibility, must be visited by a long-term care consultation team within 20 calendar days after the date on which an assessment was requested or recommended. Upon statewide implementation of subdivisions 2b, 2c, and 5, this requirement also applies to an assessment of a person requesting personal care assistance services. The commissioner shall provide at least a 90-day notice to lead agencies prior to the effective date of this requirement. Face-to-face assessments must be conducted according to paragraphs (b) to (i).

(b) Upon implementation of subdivisions 2b, 2c, and 5, lead agencies shall use certified assessors to conduct the assessment. For a person with complex health care needs, a public health or registered nurse from the team must be consulted.

(c) The MnCHOICES assessment provided by the commissioner to lead agencies must be used to complete a comprehensive, conversation-based, person-centered assessment. The assessment must include the health, psychological, functional, environmental, and social needs of the individual necessary to develop a person-centered community support plan that meets the individual's needs and preferences.

(d) The assessment must be conducted by a certified assessor in a face-to-face conversational interview with the person being assessed. The person's legal representative must provide input during the assessment process and may do so remotely if requested. At the request of the person, other individuals may participate in the assessment to provide information on the needs, strengths, and preferences of the person necessary to develop a community support plan that ensures the person's health and safety. Except for legal representatives or family members invited by the person, persons participating in the assessment may not be a provider of service or have any financial interest in the provision of services. For persons who are to be assessed for elderly waiver customized living or adult day services under chapter 256S, with the permission of the person being assessed or the person's designated or legal representative, the client's current or proposed provider of services may submit a copy of the provider's nursing assessment or written report outlining its recommendations regarding the client's care needs. The person conducting the assessment must notify the provider of the date by which this information is to be submitted. This information shall be provided to the person conducting the assessment prior to the assessment. For a person who is to be assessed for waiver services under section 256B.092 or 256B.49, with the permission of the person being assessed or the person's designated legal representative, the person's current provider of services may submit a written report outlining recommendations regarding the person's care needs the person completed in consultation with someone who is known to the person and has interaction with the person on a regular basis. The provider must submit the report at least 60 days before the end of the person's current service agreement. The certified assessor must consider the content of the submitted report prior to finalizing the person's assessment or reassessment.

(e) The certified assessor and the individual responsible for developing the coordinated service and support plan must complete the community support plan and the coordinated service and support plan no more than 60 calendar days from the assessment visit. The person or the person's legal representative must be provided with a written community support plan within the timelines established by the commissioner, regardless of whether the person is eligible for Minnesota health care programs.

(f) For a person being assessed for elderly waiver services under chapter 256S, a provider who submitted information under paragraph (d) shall receive the final written community support plan when available and the Residential Services Workbook.

(g) The written community support plan must include:

(1) a summary of assessed needs as defined in paragraphs (c) and (d);

(2) the individual's options and choices to meet identified needs, including:

(i) all available options for case management services and providers, including;

(ii) all available options for employment services, settings, and providers;

(iii) all available options for living arrangements;

(iv) all available options for self-directed services and supports, including self-directed budget options; and

(v) service provided in a non-disability-specific setting;

(3) identification of health and safety risks and how those risks will be addressed, including personal risk management strategies;

(4) referral information; and

(5) informal caregiver supports, if applicable.

For a person determined eligible for state plan home care under subdivision 1a, paragraph (b), clause (1), the person or person's representative must also receive a copy of the home care service plan developed by the certified assessor.

(h) A person may request assistance in identifying community supports without participating in a complete assessment. Upon a request for assistance identifying community support, the person must be transferred or referred to long-term care options counseling services available under sections 256.975, subdivision 7, and 256.01, subdivision 24, for telephone assistance and follow up.

(i) The person has the right to make the final decision:

(1) between institutional placement and community placement after the recommendations have been provided, except as provided in section 256.975, subdivision 7a, paragraph (d) .;

(2) between community placement in a setting controlled by a provider and living independently in a setting not controlled by a provider;

(3) between day services and employment services; and

(4) regarding available options for self-directed services and supports, including self-directed funding options.

(j) The lead agency must give the person receiving assessment or support planning, long-term care consultation services or the person's legal representative, materials, and forms supplied by the commissioner containing the following information:

(1) written recommendations for community-based services and consumer-directed options;

(2) documentation that the most cost-effective alternatives available were offered to the individual. For purposes of this clause, "cost-effective" means community services and living arrangements that cost the same as or less than institutional care. For an individual found to meet eligibility criteria for home and community-based service programs under chapter 256S or section 256B.49, "cost-effectiveness" has the meaning found in the federally approved waiver plan for each program;

(3) the need for and purpose of preadmission screening conducted by long-term care options counselors according to section 256.975, subdivisions 7a to 7c, if the person selects nursing facility placement. If the individual selects nursing facility placement, the lead agency shall forward information needed to complete the level of care determinations and screening for developmental disability and mental illness collected during the assessment to the long-term care options counselor using forms provided by the commissioner;

(4) the role of long-term care consultation assessment and support planning in eligibility determination for waiver and alternative care programs, and state plan home care, case management, and other services as defined in subdivision 1a, paragraphs (a), clause (6), and (b);

(5) information about Minnesota health care programs;

(6) the person's freedom to accept or reject the recommendations of the team;

(7) the person's right to confidentiality under the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, chapter 13;

(8) the certified assessor's decision regarding the person's need for institutional level of care as determined under criteria established in subdivision 4e and the certified assessor's decision regarding eligibility for all services and programs as defined in subdivision 1a, paragraphs (a), clause (6), and (b); and

(9) the person's right to appeal the certified assessor's decision regarding eligibility for all services and programs as defined in subdivision 1a, paragraphs (a), clauses (6), (7), and (8), and (b), and incorporating the decision regarding the need for institutional level of care or the lead agency's final decisions regarding public programs eligibility according to section 256.045, subdivision 3. The certified assessor must verbally communicate this appeal right to the person and must visually point out where in the document the right to appeal is stated.; and

(10) documentation that available options for employment services, independent living, and self-directed services and supports were described to the individual.

(k) Face-to-face assessment completed as part of an eligibility determination for multiple programs for the alternative care, elderly waiver, developmental disabilities, community access for disability inclusion, community alternative care, and brain injury waiver programs under chapter 256S and sections 256B.0913, 256B.092, and 256B.49 is valid to establish service eligibility for no more than 60 calendar days after the date of assessment.

(l) The effective eligibility start date for programs in paragraph (k) can never be prior to the date of assessment. If an assessment was completed more than 60 days before the effective waiver or alternative care program eligibility start date, assessment and support plan information must be updated and documented in the department's Medicaid Management Information System (MMIS). Notwithstanding retroactive medical assistance coverage of state plan services, the effective date of eligibility for programs included in paragraph (k) cannot be prior to the date the most recent updated assessment is completed.

(m) If an eligibility update is completed within 90 days of the previous face-to-face assessment and documented in the department's Medicaid Management Information System (MMIS), the effective date of eligibility for programs included in paragraph (k) is the date of the previous face-to-face assessment when all other eligibility requirements are met.

(n) At the time of reassessment, the certified assessor shall assess each person receiving waiver residential supports and services currently residing in a community residential setting, or licensed adult foster care home that is either not the primary residence of the license holder, or in which the license holder is not the primary caregiver, family adult foster care residence, customized living setting, or supervised living facility to determine if that person would prefer to be served in a community-living setting as defined in section 256B.49, subdivision 23, in a setting not controlled by a provider, or to receive integrated community supports as described in section 245D.03, subdivision 1, paragraph (c), clause (8). The certified assessor shall offer the person, through a person-centered planning process, the option to receive alternative housing and service options.

(o) At the time of reassessment, the certified assessor shall assess each person receiving waiver day services to determine if that person would prefer to receive employment services as described in section 245D.03, subdivision 1, paragraph (c), clauses (5) to (7). The certified assessor shall describe to the person through a person-centered planning process the option to receive employment services.

(p) At the time of reassessment, the certified assessor shall assess each person receiving non-self-directed waiver services to determine if that person would prefer an available service and setting option that would permit self-directed services and supports. The certified assessor shall describe to the person through a person-centered planning process the option to receive self-directed services and supports.

Sec. 5.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 256B.0911, subdivision 3f, is amended to read:

Subd. 3f.

Long-term care reassessments and community support plan updates.

(a) Prior to a face-to-face reassessment, the certified assessor must review the person's most recent assessment. Reassessments must be tailored using the professional judgment of the assessor to the person's known needs, strengths, preferences, and circumstances. Reassessments provide information to support the person's informed choice and opportunities to express choice regarding activities that contribute to quality of life, as well as information and opportunity to identify goals related to desired employment, community activities, and preferred living environment. Reassessments require a review of the most recent assessment, review of the current coordinated service and support plan's effectiveness, monitoring of services, and the development of an updated person-centered community support plan. Reassessments must verify continued eligibility or, offer alternatives as warranted, and provide an opportunity for quality assurance of service delivery. Face-to-face reassessments must be conducted annually or as required by federal and state laws and rules. For reassessments, the certified assessor and the individual responsible for developing the coordinated service and support plan must ensure the continuity of care for the person receiving services and complete the updated community support plan and the updated coordinated service and support plan no more than 60 days from the reassessment visit.

(b) The commissioner shall develop mechanisms for providers and case managers to share information with the assessor to facilitate a reassessment and support planning process tailored to the person's current needs and preferences.

Sec. 6.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.092, subdivision 1a, is amended to read:

Subd. 1a.

Case management services.

(a) Each recipient of a home and community-based waiver shall be provided case management services by qualified vendors as described in the federally approved waiver application.

(b) Case management service activities provided to or arranged for a person include:

(1) development of the person-centered coordinated service and support plan under subdivision 1b;

(2) informing the individual or the individual's legal guardian or conservator, or parent if the person is a minor, of service options, including all service options available under the waiver plan;

(3) consulting with relevant medical experts or service providers;

(4) assisting the person in the identification of potential providers of chosen services, including:

(i) providers of services provided in a non-disability-specific setting;

(ii) employment service providers;

(iii) providers of services provided in settings that are not controlled by a provider; and

(iv) providers of financial management services;

(5) assisting the person to access services and assisting in appeals under section 256.045;

(6) coordination of services, if coordination is not provided by another service provider;

(7) evaluation and monitoring of the services identified in the coordinated service and support plan, which must incorporate at least one annual face-to-face visit by the case manager with each person; and

(8) reviewing coordinated service and support plans and providing the lead agency with recommendations for service authorization based upon the individual's needs identified in the coordinated service and support plan.

(c) Case management service activities that are provided to the person with a developmental disability shall be provided directly by county agencies or under contract. Case management services must be provided by a public or private agency that is enrolled as a medical assistance provider determined by the commissioner to meet all of the requirements in the approved federal waiver plans. Case management services must not be provided to a recipient by a private agency that has a financial interest in the provision of any other services included in the recipient's coordinated service and support plan. For purposes of this section, "private agency" means any agency that is not identified as a lead agency under section 256B.0911, subdivision 1a, paragraph (e).

(d) Case managers are responsible for service provisions listed in paragraphs (a) and (b). Case managers shall collaborate with consumers, families, legal representatives, and relevant medical experts and service providers in the development and annual review of the person-centered coordinated service and support plan and habilitation plan.

(e) For persons who need a positive support transition plan as required in chapter 245D, the case manager shall participate in the development and ongoing evaluation of the plan with the expanded support team. At least quarterly, the case manager, in consultation with the expanded support team, shall evaluate the effectiveness of the plan based on progress evaluation data submitted by the licensed provider to the case manager. The evaluation must identify whether the plan has been developed and implemented in a manner to achieve the following within the required timelines:

(1) phasing out the use of prohibited procedures;

(2) acquisition of skills needed to eliminate the prohibited procedures within the plan's timeline; and

(3) accomplishment of identified outcomes.

If adequate progress is not being made, the case manager shall consult with the person's expanded support team to identify needed modifications and whether additional professional support is required to provide consultation.

(f) The Department of Human Services shall offer ongoing education in case management to case managers. Case managers shall receive no less than ten hours of case management education and disability-related training each year. The education and training must include person-centered planning. For the purposes of this section, "person-centered planning" or "person-centered" has the meaning given in section 256B.0911, subdivision 1a, paragraph (f).

Sec. 7.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 256B.092, subdivision 1b, is amended to read:

Subd. 1b.

Coordinated service and support plan.

(a) Each recipient of home and community-based waivered services shall be provided a copy of the written person-centered coordinated service and support plan that:

(1) is developed with and signed by the recipient within the timelines established by the commissioner and section 256B.0911, subdivision 3a, paragraph (e);

(2) includes the person's need for service, including identification of service needs that will be or that are met by the person's relatives, friends, and others, as well as community services used by the general public;

(3) reasonably ensures the health and welfare of the recipient;

(4) identifies the person's preferences for services as stated by the person, the person's legal guardian or conservator, or the parent if the person is a minor, including the person's choices made on self-directed options and on, services and supports to achieve employment goals, and living arrangements;

(5) provides for an informed choice, as defined in section 256B.77, subdivision 2, paragraph (o), of service and support providers, and identifies all available options for case management services and providers;

(6) identifies long-range and short-range goals for the person;

(7) identifies specific services and the amount and frequency of the services to be provided to the person based on assessed needs, preferences, and available resources. The person-centered coordinated service and support plan shall also specify other services the person needs that are not available;

(8) identifies the need for an individual program plan to be developed by the provider according to the respective state and federal licensing and certification standards, and additional assessments to be completed or arranged by the provider after service initiation;

(9) identifies provider responsibilities to implement and make recommendations for modification to the coordinated service and support plan;

(10) includes notice of the right to request a conciliation conference or a hearing under section 256.045;

(11) is agreed upon and signed by the person, the person's legal guardian or conservator, or the parent if the person is a minor, and the authorized county representative;

(12) is reviewed by a health professional if the person has overriding medical needs that impact the delivery of services; and

(13) includes the authorized annual and monthly amounts for the services.

(b) In developing the person-centered coordinated service and support plan, the case manager is encouraged to include the use of volunteers, religious organizations, social clubs, and civic and service organizations to support the individual in the community. The lead agency must be held harmless for damages or injuries sustained through the use of volunteers and agencies under this paragraph, including workers' compensation liability.

(c) Approved, written, and signed changes to a consumer's services that meet the criteria in this subdivision shall be an addendum to that consumer's individual service plan.

Sec. 8.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 256B.49, subdivision 13, is amended to read:

Subd. 13.

Case management.

(a) Each recipient of a home and community-based waiver shall be provided case management services by qualified vendors as described in the federally approved waiver application. The case management service activities provided must include:

(1) finalizing the person-centered written coordinated service and support plan within the timelines established by the commissioner and section 256B.0911, subdivision 3a, paragraph (e);

(2) informing the recipient or the recipient's legal guardian or conservator of service options, including all service options available under the waiver plans;

(3) assisting the recipient in the identification of potential service providers and of chosen services, including:

(i) available options for case management service and providers, including;

(ii) providers of services provided in a non-disability-specific setting;

(iii) employment service providers;

(iv) providers of services provided in settings that are not community residential settings; and

(v) providers of financial management services;

(4) assisting the recipient to access services and assisting with appeals under section 256.045; and

(5) coordinating, evaluating, and monitoring of the services identified in the service plan.

(b) The case manager may delegate certain aspects of the case management service activities to another individual provided there is oversight by the case manager. The case manager may not delegate those aspects which require professional judgment including:

(1) finalizing the person-centered coordinated service and support plan;

(2) ongoing assessment and monitoring of the person's needs and adequacy of the approved person-centered coordinated service and support plan; and

(3) adjustments to the person-centered coordinated service and support plan.

(c) Case management services must be provided by a public or private agency that is enrolled as a medical assistance provider determined by the commissioner to meet all of the requirements in the approved federal waiver plans. Case management services must not be provided to a recipient by a private agency that has any financial interest in the provision of any other services included in the recipient's coordinated service and support plan. For purposes of this section, "private agency" means any agency that is not identified as a lead agency under section 256B.0911, subdivision 1a, paragraph (e).

(d) For persons who need a positive support transition plan as required in chapter 245D, the case manager shall participate in the development and ongoing evaluation of the plan with the expanded support team. At least quarterly, the case manager, in consultation with the expanded support team, shall evaluate the effectiveness of the plan based on progress evaluation data submitted by the licensed provider to the case manager. The evaluation must identify whether the plan has been developed and implemented in a manner to achieve the following within the required timelines:

(1) phasing out the use of prohibited procedures;

(2) acquisition of skills needed to eliminate the prohibited procedures within the plan's timeline; and

(3) accomplishment of identified outcomes.

If adequate progress is not being made, the case manager shall consult with the person's expanded support team to identify needed modifications and whether additional professional support is required to provide consultation.

(e) The Department of Human Services shall offer ongoing education in case management to case managers. Case managers shall receive no less than ten hours of case management education and disability-related training each year. The education and training must include person-centered planning. For the purposes of this section, "person-centered planning" or "person-centered" has the meaning given in section 256B.0911, subdivision 1a, paragraph (f).

Sec. 9.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 256B.49, subdivision 14, is amended to read:

Subd. 14.

Assessment and reassessment.

(a) Assessments and reassessments shall be conducted by certified assessors according to section 256B.0911, subdivision 2b. The certified assessor, with the permission of the recipient or the recipient's designated legal representative, may invite other individuals to attend the assessment. With the permission of the recipient or the recipient's designated legal representative, the recipient's current provider of services may submit a written report outlining their recommendations regarding the recipient's care needs prepared by a direct service employee who is familiar with the person. The provider must submit the report at least 60 days before the end of the person's current service agreement. The certified assessor must consider the content of the submitted report prior to finalizing the person's assessment or reassessment.

(b) There must be a determination that the client requires a hospital level of care or a nursing facility level of care as defined in section 256B.0911, subdivision 4e, at initial and subsequent assessments to initiate and maintain participation in the waiver program.

(c) Regardless of other assessments identified in section 144.0724, subdivision 4, as appropriate to determine nursing facility level of care for purposes of medical assistance payment for nursing facility services, only face-to-face assessments conducted according to section 256B.0911, subdivisions 3a, 3b, and 4d, that result in a hospital level of care determination or a nursing facility level of care determination must be accepted for purposes of initial and ongoing access to waiver services payment.

(d) Recipients who are found eligible for home and community-based services under this section before their 65th birthday may remain eligible for these services after their 65th birthday if they continue to meet all other eligibility factors.

Sec. 10.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.49, subdivision 23, is amended to read:

Subd. 23.

Community-living settings.

(a) For the purposes of this chapter, "community-living settings" means a single-family home or apartment multifamily dwelling unit where the a service recipient or their a service recipient's family owns or rents, and maintains control over the individual unit as demonstrated by the a lease agreement, or has a plan for transition of a lease from a service provider to the individual. Within two years of signing the initial lease, the service provider shall transfer the lease to the individual. In the event the landlord denies the transfer, the commissioner may approve an exception within sufficient time to ensure the continued occupancy by the individual. Community-living settings does not include a home or dwelling unit that the service provider owns, operates, or leases or in which the service provider has a direct or indirect financial interest.

(b) To ensure a service recipient or the service recipient's family maintains control over the home or dwelling unit, community-living settings are subject to the following requirements:

(1) individuals are service recipients must not be required to receive services or share services;

(2) individuals are service recipients must not be required to have a disability or specific diagnosis to live in the community-living setting;

(3) individuals service recipients may hire service providers of their choice;

(4) individuals service recipients may choose whether to share their household and with whom;

(5) the home or apartment multifamily dwelling unit must include living, sleeping, bathing, and cooking areas;

(6) individuals service recipients must have lockable access and egress;

(7) individuals service recipients must be free to receive visitors and leave the settings at times and for durations of their own choosing;

(8) leases must not reserve the right to assign units or change unit assignments comply with chapter 504B; and

(9) landlords must not charge different rents to tenants who are receiving home and community-based services; and

(10) access to the greater community must be easily facilitated based on the individual's service recipient's needs and preferences.

(c) Nothing in this section prohibits a service recipient from having another person or entity not affiliated with the service provider cosign a lease. Nothing in this section prohibits a service recipient, during any period in which a service provider has cosigned the service recipient's lease, from modifying services with an existing cosigning service provider and, subject to the approval of the landlord, maintaining a lease cosigned by the service provider. Nothing in this section prohibits a service recipient, during any period in which a service provider has cosigned the service recipient's lease, from terminating services with the cosigning service provider, receiving services from a new service provider, and, subject to the approval of the landlord, maintaining a lease cosigned by the new service provider.

(d) A lease cosigned by a service provider meets the requirements of paragraph (a) if the service recipient and service provider develop and implement a transition plan which must provide that, within two years of cosigning the initial lease, the service provider shall transfer the lease to the service recipient and other cosigners, if any.

(e) In the event the landlord has not approved the transfer of the lease within two years of the service provider cosigning the initial lease, the service provider must submit a time-limited extension request to the commissioner of human services to continue the cosigned lease arrangement. The extension request must include:

(1) the reason the landlord denied the transfer;

(2) the plan to overcome the denial to transfer the lease;

(3) the length of time needed to successfully transfer the lease, not to exceed an additional two years;

(4) a description of how the transition plan was followed, what occurred that led to the landlord denying the transfer, and what changes in circumstances or condition, if any, the service recipient experienced; and

(5) a revised transition plan to transfer the cosigned lease between the service provider and the service recipient to the service recipient.

The commissioner must approve an extension within sufficient time to ensure the continued occupancy by the service recipient.

ARTICLE 5

DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES POLICY PROPOSALS

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245.4871, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 32a.

Responsible social services agency.

"Responsible social services agency" is defined in section 260C.007, subdivision 27a.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 2.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245.4885, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Admission criteria.

(a) Prior to admission or placement, except in the case of an emergency admission, all children referred for treatment of severe emotional disturbance in a treatment foster care setting, residential treatment facility, or informally admitted to a regional treatment center shall undergo an assessment to determine the appropriate level of care if public funds are used to pay for the services.

(b) The county board responsible social services agency shall determine the appropriate level of care for a child when county-controlled funds are used to pay for the child's services or placement in a qualified residential treatment facility under chapter 260C and licensed by the commissioner under chapter 245A. In accordance with section 260C.157, a juvenile treatment screening team shall conduct a screening before the team may recommend whether to place a child in a qualified residential treatment program as defined in section 260C.007, subdivision 26d. When a social services agency does not have responsibility for a child's placement and the child is enrolled in a prepaid health program under section 256B.69, the enrolled child's contracted health plan must determine the appropriate level of care. When Indian Health Services funds or funds of a tribally owned facility funded under the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, Public Law 93-638, are to be used, the Indian Health Services or 638 tribal health facility must determine the appropriate level of care. When more than one entity bears responsibility for coverage, the entities shall coordinate level of care determination activities to the extent possible.

(c) The responsible social services agency must make the level of care determination shall available to the juvenile treatment screening team, as permitted under chapter 13. The level of care determination shall inform the juvenile treatment screening team process and the assessment in section 260C.704 when considering whether to place the child in a qualified residential treatment program. When the responsible social services agency is not involved in determining a child's placement, the child's level of care determination shall determine whether the proposed treatment:

(1) is necessary;

(2) is appropriate to the child's individual treatment needs;

(3) cannot be effectively provided in the child's home; and

(4) provides a length of stay as short as possible consistent with the individual child's need.

(d) When a level of care determination is conducted, the responsible social services agency or other entity may not determine that a screening under section 260C.157 or referral or admission to a treatment foster care setting or residential treatment facility is not appropriate solely because services were not first provided to the child in a less restrictive setting and the child failed to make progress toward or meet treatment goals in the less restrictive setting. The level of care determination must be based on a diagnostic assessment that includes a functional assessment which evaluates family, school, and community living situations; and an assessment of the child's need for care out of the home using a validated tool which assesses a child's functional status and assigns an appropriate level of care. The validated tool must be approved by the commissioner of human services. If a diagnostic assessment including a functional assessment has been completed by a mental health professional within the past 180 days, a new diagnostic assessment need not be completed unless in the opinion of the current treating mental health professional the child's mental health status has changed markedly since the assessment was completed. The child's parent shall be notified if an assessment will not be completed and of the reasons. A copy of the notice shall be placed in the child's file. Recommendations developed as part of the level of care determination process shall include specific community services needed by the child and, if appropriate, the child's family, and shall indicate whether or not these services are available and accessible to the child and family.

(e) During the level of care determination process, the child, child's family, or child's legal representative, as appropriate, must be informed of the child's eligibility for case management services and family community support services and that an individual family community support plan is being developed by the case manager, if assigned.

(f) The level of care determination shall comply with section 260C.212. The parent shall be consulted in the process, unless clinically detrimental to the child. When the responsible social services agency has authority, the agency must engage the child's parents in case planning under sections 260C.212 and 260C.708 unless a court terminates the parent's rights or court orders restrict the parent from participating in case planning, visitation, or parental responsibilities.

(g) The level of care determination, and placement decision, and recommendations for mental health services must be documented in the child's record, as required in chapter 260C.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 3.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 245.4889, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Establishment and authority.

(a) The commissioner is authorized to make grants from available appropriations to assist:

(1) counties;

(2) Indian tribes;

(3) children's collaboratives under section 124D.23 or 245.493; or

(4) mental health service providers.

(b) The following services are eligible for grants under this section:

(1) services to children with emotional disturbances as defined in section 245.4871, subdivision 15, and their families;

(2) transition services under section 245.4875, subdivision 8, for young adults under age 21 and their families;

(3) respite care services for children with emotional disturbances or severe emotional disturbances who are at risk of out-of-home placement. A child is not required to have case management services to receive respite care services;

(4) children's mental health crisis services;

(5) mental health services for people from cultural and ethnic minorities;

(6) children's mental health screening and follow-up diagnostic assessment and treatment;

(7) services to promote and develop the capacity of providers to use evidence-based practices in providing children's mental health services;

(8) school-linked mental health services under section 245.4901;

(9) building evidence-based mental health intervention capacity for children birth to age five;

(10) suicide prevention and counseling services that use text messaging statewide;

(11) mental health first aid training;

(12) training for parents, collaborative partners, and mental health providers on the impact of adverse childhood experiences and trauma and development of an interactive website to share information and strategies to promote resilience and prevent trauma;

(13) transition age services to develop or expand mental health treatment and supports for adolescents and young adults 26 years of age or younger;

(14) early childhood mental health consultation;

(15) evidence-based interventions for youth at risk of developing or experiencing a first episode of psychosis, and a public awareness campaign on the signs and symptoms of psychosis;

(16) psychiatric consultation for primary care practitioners; and

(17) providers to begin operations and meet program requirements when establishing a new children's mental health program. These may be start-up grants.

(c) Services under paragraph (b) must be designed to help each child to function and remain with the child's family in the community and delivered consistent with the child's treatment plan. Transition services to eligible young adults under this paragraph must be designed to foster independent living in the community.

(d) As a condition of receiving grant funds, a grantee shall obtain all available third-party reimbursement sources, if applicable.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 4.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 245A.03, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7.

Licensing moratorium.

(a) The commissioner shall not issue an initial license for child foster care licensed under Minnesota Rules, parts 2960.3000 to 2960.3340, or adult foster care licensed under Minnesota Rules, parts 9555.5105 to 9555.6265, under this chapter for a physical location that will not be the primary residence of the license holder for the entire period of licensure. If a license is issued during this moratorium, and the license holder changes the license holder's primary residence away from the physical location of the foster care license, the commissioner shall revoke the license according to section 245A.07. The commissioner shall not issue an initial license for a community residential setting licensed under chapter 245D. When approving an exception under this paragraph, the commissioner shall consider the resource need determination process in paragraph (h), the availability of foster care licensed beds in the geographic area in which the licensee seeks to operate, the results of a person's choices during their annual assessment and service plan review, and the recommendation of the local county board. The determination by the commissioner is final and not subject to appeal. Exceptions to the moratorium include:

(1) foster care settings that are required to be registered under chapter 144D;

(2) foster care licenses replacing foster care licenses in existence on May 15, 2009, or community residential setting licenses replacing adult foster care licenses in existence on December 31, 2013, and determined to be needed by the commissioner under paragraph (b);

(3) new foster care licenses or community residential setting licenses determined to be needed by the commissioner under paragraph (b) for the closure of a nursing facility, ICF/DD, or regional treatment center; restructuring of state-operated services that limits the capacity of state-operated facilities; or allowing movement to the community for people who no longer require the level of care provided in state-operated facilities as provided under section 256B.092, subdivision 13, or 256B.49, subdivision 24;

(4) new foster care licenses or community residential setting licenses determined to be needed by the commissioner under paragraph (b) for persons requiring hospital level care; or

(5) new foster care licenses or community residential setting licenses determined to be needed by the commissioner for the transition of people from personal care assistance to the home and community-based services;

(6) new foster care licenses or community residential setting licenses determined to be needed by the commissioner for the transition of people from the residential care waiver services to foster care services. This exception applies only when:

(i) the person's case manager provided the person with information about the choice of service, service provider, and location of service to help the person make an informed choice; and

(ii) the person's foster care services are less than or equal to the cost of the person's services delivered in the residential care waiver service setting as determined by the lead agency; or

(7) new foster care licenses or community residential setting licenses for people receiving services under chapter 245D and residing in an unlicensed setting before May 1, 2017, and for which a license is required. This exception does not apply to people living in their own home. For purposes of this clause, there is a presumption that a foster care or community residential setting license is required for services provided to three or more people in a dwelling unit when the setting is controlled by the provider. A license holder subject to this exception may rebut the presumption that a license is required by seeking a reconsideration of the commissioner's determination. The commissioner's disposition of a request for reconsideration is final and not subject to appeal under chapter 14. The exception is available until June 30, 2018. This exception is available when:

(i) the person's case manager provided the person with information about the choice of service, service provider, and location of service, including in the person's home, to help the person make an informed choice; and

(ii) the person's services provided in the licensed foster care or community residential setting are less than or equal to the cost of the person's services delivered in the unlicensed setting as determined by the lead agency.

(b) The commissioner shall determine the need for newly licensed foster care homes or community residential settings as defined under this subdivision. As part of the determination, the commissioner shall consider the availability of foster care capacity in the area in which the licensee seeks to operate, and the recommendation of the local county board. The determination by the commissioner must be final. A determination of need is not required for a change in ownership at the same address.

(c) When an adult resident served by the program moves out of a foster home that is not the primary residence of the license holder according to section 256B.49, subdivision 15, paragraph (f), or the adult community residential setting, the county shall immediately inform the Department of Human Services Licensing Division. The department may decrease the statewide licensed capacity for adult foster care settings.

(d) Residential settings that would otherwise be subject to the decreased license capacity established in paragraph (c) shall be exempt if the license holder's beds are occupied by residents whose primary diagnosis is mental illness and the license holder is certified under the requirements in subdivision 6a or section 245D.33.

(e) A resource need determination process, managed at the state level, using the available reports required by section 144A.351, and other data and information shall be used to determine where the reduced capacity determined under section 256B.493 will be implemented. The commissioner shall consult with the stakeholders described in section 144A.351, and employ a variety of methods to improve the state's capacity to meet the informed decisions of those people who want to move out of corporate foster care or community residential settings, long-term service needs within budgetary limits, including seeking proposals from service providers or lead agencies to change service type, capacity, or location to improve services, increase the independence of residents, and better meet needs identified by the long-term services and supports reports and statewide data and information.

(f) At the time of application and reapplication for licensure, the applicant and the license holder that are subject to the moratorium or an exclusion established in paragraph (a) are required to inform the commissioner whether the physical location where the foster care will be provided is or will be the primary residence of the license holder for the entire period of licensure. If the primary residence of the applicant or license holder changes, the applicant or license holder must notify the commissioner immediately. The commissioner shall print on the foster care license certificate whether or not the physical location is the primary residence of the license holder.

(g) License holders of foster care homes identified under paragraph (f) that are not the primary residence of the license holder and that also provide services in the foster care home that are covered by a federally approved home and community-based services waiver, as authorized under chapter 256S or section 256B.092 or 256B.49, must inform the human services licensing division that the license holder provides or intends to provide these waiver-funded services.

(h) The commissioner may adjust capacity to address needs identified in section 144A.351. Under this authority, the commissioner may approve new licensed settings or delicense existing settings. Delicensing of settings will be accomplished through a process identified in section 256B.493. Annually, by August 1, the commissioner shall provide information and data on capacity of licensed long-term services and supports, actions taken under the subdivision to manage statewide long-term services and supports resources, and any recommendations for change to the legislative committees with jurisdiction over the health and human services budget.

(i) The commissioner must notify a license holder when its corporate foster care or community residential setting licensed beds are reduced under this section. The notice of reduction of licensed beds must be in writing and delivered to the license holder by certified mail or personal service. The notice must state why the licensed beds are reduced and must inform the license holder of its right to request reconsideration by the commissioner. The license holder's request for reconsideration must be in writing. If mailed, the request for reconsideration must be postmarked and sent to the commissioner within 20 calendar days after the license holder's receipt of the notice of reduction of licensed beds. If a request for reconsideration is made by personal service, it must be received by the commissioner within 20 calendar days after the license holder's receipt of the notice of reduction of licensed beds.

(j) The commissioner shall not issue an initial license for children's residential treatment services licensed under Minnesota Rules, parts 2960.0580 to 2960.0700, under this chapter for a program that Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services would consider an institution for mental diseases. Facilities that serve only private pay clients are exempt from the moratorium described in this paragraph. The commissioner has the authority to manage existing statewide capacity for children's residential treatment services subject to the moratorium under this paragraph and may issue an initial license for such facilities if the initial license would not increase the statewide capacity for children's residential treatment services subject to the moratorium under this paragraph.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 5.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245C.02, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Background study.

"Background study" means the review of records conducted by the commissioner to determine whether a subject is disqualified from direct contact with persons served by a program and, where specifically provided in statutes, whether a subject is disqualified from having access to persons served by a program and from working in a children's residential facility or foster residence setting.

Sec. 6.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245C.02, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 11a.

Foster family setting.

"Foster family setting" has the meaning given in Minnesota Rules, part 2960.3010, subpart 23.

Sec. 7.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245C.02, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 11b.

Foster residence setting.

"Foster residence setting" has the meaning given in Minnesota Rules, part 2960.3010, subpart 26, and includes settings licensed by the commissioner of corrections or the commissioner of human services.

Sec. 8.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245C.02, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 21.

Title IV-E eligible.

"Title IV-E eligible" means a children's residential facility or foster residence setting that is designated by the commissioner as eligible to receive Title IV-E payments for a child placed at the children's residential facility or foster residence setting.

Sec. 9.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 245C.03, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Licensed programs.

(a) The commissioner shall conduct a background study on:

(1) the person or persons applying for a license;

(2) an individual age 13 and over living in the household where the licensed program will be provided who is not receiving licensed services from the program;

(3) current or prospective employees or contractors of the applicant who will have direct contact with persons served by the facility, agency, or program;

(4) volunteers or student volunteers who will have direct contact with persons served by the program to provide program services if the contact is not under the continuous, direct supervision by an individual listed in clause (1) or (3);

(5) an individual age ten to 12 living in the household where the licensed services will be provided when the commissioner has reasonable cause as defined in section 245C.02, subdivision 15;

(6) an individual who, without providing direct contact services at a licensed program, may have unsupervised access to children or vulnerable adults receiving services from a program, when the commissioner has reasonable cause as defined in section 245C.02, subdivision 15;

(7) all controlling individuals as defined in section 245A.02, subdivision 5a;

(8) notwithstanding the other requirements in this subdivision, child care background study subjects as defined in section 245C.02, subdivision 6a; and

(9) notwithstanding clause (3), for children's residential facilities and foster residence settings, any adult working in the facility, whether or not the individual will have direct contact with persons served by the facility.

(b) For child foster care when the license holder resides in the home where foster care services are provided, a short-term substitute caregiver providing direct contact services for a child for less than 72 hours of continuous care is not required to receive a background study under this chapter.

Sec. 10.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245C.03, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 13.

Providers of housing support services.

The commissioner shall conduct background studies on any individual required under section 256B.051 to have a background study completed under this chapter.

Sec. 11.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245C.04, subdivision 1, as amended by Laws 2020, chapter 115, article 4, section 80, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Licensed programs; other child care programs.

(a) The commissioner shall conduct a background study of an individual required to be studied under section 245C.03, subdivision 1, at least upon application for initial license for all license types.

(b) The commissioner shall conduct a background study of an individual required to be studied under section 245C.03, subdivision 1, including a child care background study subject as defined in section 245C.02, subdivision 6a, in a family child care program, licensed child care center, certified license-exempt child care center, or legal nonlicensed child care provider, on a schedule determined by the commissioner. Except as provided in section 245C.05, subdivision 5a, a child care background study must include submission of fingerprints for a national criminal history record check and a review of the information under section 245C.08. A background study for a child care program must be repeated within five years from the most recent study conducted under this paragraph.

(c) At reapplication for a family child care license:

(1) for a background study affiliated with a licensed family child care center or legal nonlicensed child care provider, the individual shall provide information required under section 245C.05, subdivision 1, paragraphs (a), (b), and (d), to the county agency, and be fingerprinted and photographed under section 245C.05, subdivision 5;

(2) the county agency shall verify the information received under clause (1) and forward the information to the commissioner to complete the background study; and

(3) the background study conducted by the commissioner under this paragraph must include a review of the information required under section 245C.08.

(d) The commissioner is not required to conduct a study of an individual at the time of reapplication for a license if the individual's background study was completed by the commissioner of human services and the following conditions are met:

(1) a study of the individual was conducted either at the time of initial licensure or when the individual became affiliated with the license holder;

(2) the individual has been continuously affiliated with the license holder since the last study was conducted; and

(3) the last study of the individual was conducted on or after October 1, 1995.

(e) The commissioner of human services shall conduct a background study of an individual specified under section 245C.03, subdivision 1, paragraph (a), clauses (2) to (6), who is newly affiliated with a child foster care family setting license holder:

(1) the county or private agency shall collect and forward to the commissioner the information required under section 245C.05, subdivisions 1 and 5, when the child foster care family setting applicant or license holder resides in the home where child foster care services are provided; and

(2) the child foster care license holder or applicant shall collect and forward to the commissioner the information required under section 245C.05, subdivisions 1 and 5, when the applicant or license holder does not reside in the home where child foster care services are provided; and

(3) (2) the background study conducted by the commissioner of human services under this paragraph must include a review of the information required under section 245C.08, subdivisions 1, 3, and 4.

(f) The commissioner shall conduct a background study of an individual specified under section 245C.03, subdivision 1, paragraph (a), clauses (2) to (6), who is newly affiliated with an adult foster care or family adult day services and with a family child care license holder or a legal nonlicensed child care provider authorized under chapter 119B and:

(1) except as provided in section 245C.05, subdivision 5a, the county shall collect and forward to the commissioner the information required under section 245C.05, subdivision 1, paragraphs (a) and (b), and subdivision 5, paragraphs (a), (b), and (d), for background studies conducted by the commissioner for all family adult day services, for adult foster care when the adult foster care license holder resides in the adult foster care residence, and for family child care and legal nonlicensed child care authorized under chapter 119B;

(2) the license holder shall collect and forward to the commissioner the information required under section 245C.05, subdivisions 1, paragraphs (a) and (b); and 5, paragraphs (a) and (b), for background studies conducted by the commissioner for adult foster care when the license holder does not reside in the adult foster care residence; and

(3) the background study conducted by the commissioner under this paragraph must include a review of the information required under section 245C.08, subdivision 1, paragraph (a), and subdivisions 3 and 4.

(g) Applicants for licensure, license holders, and other entities as provided in this chapter must submit completed background study requests to the commissioner using the electronic system known as NETStudy before individuals specified in section 245C.03, subdivision 1, begin positions allowing direct contact in any licensed program.

(h) For an individual who is not on the entity's active roster, the entity must initiate a new background study through NETStudy when:

(1) an individual returns to a position requiring a background study following an absence of 120 or more consecutive days; or

(2) a program that discontinued providing licensed direct contact services for 120 or more consecutive days begins to provide direct contact licensed services again.

The license holder shall maintain a copy of the notification provided to the commissioner under this paragraph in the program's files. If the individual's disqualification was previously set aside for the license holder's program and the new background study results in no new information that indicates the individual may pose a risk of harm to persons receiving services from the license holder, the previous set-aside shall remain in effect.

(i) For purposes of this section, a physician licensed under chapter 147 or advanced practice registered nurse licensed under chapter 148 is considered to be continuously affiliated upon the license holder's receipt from the commissioner of health or human services of the physician's or advanced practice registered nurse's background study results.

(j) For purposes of family child care, a substitute caregiver must receive repeat background studies at the time of each license renewal.

(k) A repeat background study at the time of license renewal is not required if the family child care substitute caregiver's background study was completed by the commissioner on or after October 1, 2017, and the substitute caregiver is on the license holder's active roster in NETStudy 2.0.

(l) Before and after school programs authorized under chapter 119B, are exempt from the background study requirements under section 123B.03, for an employee for whom a background study under this chapter has been completed.

Sec. 12.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245C.04, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 11.

Children's residential facilities and foster residence settings.

Applicants and license holders for children's residential facilities and foster residence settings must submit a background study request to the commissioner using the electronic system known as NETStudy 2.0:

(1) before the commissioner issues a license to an applicant;

(2) before an individual age 13 or older, who is not currently receiving services from the licensed facility or setting, may live in the licensed program or setting;

(3) before a volunteer has unsupervised direct contact with persons that the program serves;

(4) before an individual becomes a controlling individual as defined in section 245A.02, subdivision 5a;

(5) before an adult, regardless of whether or not the individual will have direct contact with persons served by the facility, begins working in the facility or setting;

(6) when directed to by the commissioner for an individual who resides in the household as described in section 245C.03, subdivision 1, paragraph (a), clause (5); and

(7) when directed to by the commissioner for an individual who may have unsupervised access to children or vulnerable adults as described in section 245C.03, subdivision 1, paragraph (a), clause (6).

Sec. 13.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 245C.05, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Electronic transmission.

(a) For background studies conducted by the Department of Human Services, the commissioner shall implement a secure system for the electronic transmission of:

(1) background study information to the commissioner;

(2) background study results to the license holder;

(3) background study results to county and private agencies counties for background studies conducted by the commissioner for child foster care; and

(4) background study results to county agencies for background studies conducted by the commissioner for adult foster care and family adult day services and, upon implementation of NETStudy 2.0, family child care and legal nonlicensed child care authorized under chapter 119B.

(b) Unless the commissioner has granted a hardship variance under paragraph (c), a license holder or an applicant must use the electronic transmission system known as NETStudy or NETStudy 2.0 to submit all requests for background studies to the commissioner as required by this chapter.

(c) A license holder or applicant whose program is located in an area in which high-speed Internet is inaccessible may request the commissioner to grant a variance to the electronic transmission requirement.

(d) Section 245C.08, subdivision 3, paragraph (c), applies to results transmitted under this subdivision.

Sec. 14.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 245C.08, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Background studies conducted by Department of Human Services.

(a) For a background study conducted by the Department of Human Services, the commissioner shall review:

(1) information related to names of substantiated perpetrators of maltreatment of vulnerable adults that has been received by the commissioner as required under section 626.557, subdivision 9c, paragraph (j);

(2) the commissioner's records relating to the maltreatment of minors in licensed programs, and from findings of maltreatment of minors as indicated through the social service information system;

(3) information from juvenile courts as required in subdivision 4 for individuals listed in section 245C.03, subdivision 1, paragraph (a), when there is reasonable cause;

(4) information from the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, including information regarding a background study subject's registration in Minnesota as a predatory offender under section 243.166;

(5) except as provided in clause (6), information received as a result of submission of fingerprints for a national criminal history record check, as defined in section 245C.02, subdivision 13c, when the commissioner has reasonable cause for a national criminal history record check as defined under section 245C.02, subdivision 15a, or as required under section 144.057, subdivision 1, clause (2);

(6) for a background study related to a child foster care family setting application for licensure, foster residence settings, children's residential facilities, a transfer of permanent legal and physical custody of a child under sections 260C.503 to 260C.515, or adoptions, and for a background study required for family child care, certified license-exempt child care, child care centers, and legal nonlicensed child care authorized under chapter 119B, the commissioner shall also review:

(i) information from the child abuse and neglect registry for any state in which the background study subject has resided for the past five years;

(ii) when the background study subject is 18 years of age or older, or a minor under section 245C.05, subdivision 5a, paragraph (c), information received following submission of fingerprints for a national criminal history record check; and

(iii) when the background study subject is 18 years of age or older or a minor under section 245C.05, subdivision 5a, paragraph (d), for licensed family child care, certified license-exempt child care, licensed child care centers, and legal nonlicensed child care authorized under chapter 119B, information obtained using non-fingerprint-based data including information from the criminal and sex offender registries for any state in which the background study subject resided for the past five years and information from the national crime information database and the national sex offender registry; and

(7) for a background study required for family child care, certified license-exempt child care centers, licensed child care centers, and legal nonlicensed child care authorized under chapter 119B, the background study shall also include, to the extent practicable, a name and date-of-birth search of the National Sex Offender Public website.

(b) Notwithstanding expungement by a court, the commissioner may consider information obtained under paragraph (a), clauses (3) and (4), unless the commissioner received notice of the petition for expungement and the court order for expungement is directed specifically to the commissioner.

(c) The commissioner shall also review criminal case information received according to section 245C.04, subdivision 4a, from the Minnesota court information system that relates to individuals who have already been studied under this chapter and who remain affiliated with the agency that initiated the background study.

(d) When the commissioner has reasonable cause to believe that the identity of a background study subject is uncertain, the commissioner may require the subject to provide a set of classifiable fingerprints for purposes of completing a fingerprint-based record check with the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. Fingerprints collected under this paragraph shall not be saved by the commissioner after they have been used to verify the identity of the background study subject against the particular criminal record in question.

(e) The commissioner may inform the entity that initiated a background study under NETStudy 2.0 of the status of processing of the subject's fingerprints.

Sec. 15.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245C.10, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 16.

Providers of housing support services.

The commissioner shall recover the cost of background studies initiated by providers of housing support services under section 256B.051 through a fee of no more than $20 per study. The fees collected under this subdivision are appropriated to the commissioner for the purpose of conducting background studies.

Sec. 16.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 245C.13, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Direct contact Activities pending completion of background study.

The subject of a background study may not perform any activity requiring a background study under paragraph (c) until the commissioner has issued one of the notices under paragraph (a).

(a) Notices from the commissioner required prior to activity under paragraph (b) (c) include:

(1) a notice of the study results under section 245C.17 stating that:

(i) the individual is not disqualified; or

(ii) more time is needed to complete the study but the individual is not required to be removed from direct contact or access to people receiving services prior to completion of the study as provided under section 245C.17, subdivision 1, paragraph (b) or (c). The notice that more time is needed to complete the study must also indicate whether the individual is required to be under continuous direct supervision prior to completion of the background study. When more time is necessary to complete a background study of an individual affiliated with a Title IV-E eligible children's residential facility or foster residence setting, the individual may not work in the facility or setting regardless of whether or not the individual is supervised;

(2) a notice that a disqualification has been set aside under section 245C.23; or

(3) a notice that a variance has been granted related to the individual under section 245C.30.

(b) For a background study affiliated with a licensed child care center or certified license-exempt child care center, the notice sent under paragraph (a), clause (1), item (ii), must require the individual to be under continuous direct supervision prior to completion of the background study except as permitted in subdivision 3.

(c) Activities prohibited prior to receipt of notice under paragraph (a) include:

(1) being issued a license;

(2) living in the household where the licensed program will be provided;

(3) providing direct contact services to persons served by a program unless the subject is under continuous direct supervision;

(4) having access to persons receiving services if the background study was completed under section 144.057, subdivision 1, or 245C.03, subdivision 1, paragraph (a), clause (2), (5), or (6), unless the subject is under continuous direct supervision; or

(5) for licensed child care centers and certified license-exempt child care centers, providing direct contact services to persons served by the program.; or

(6) for children's residential facilities or foster residence settings, working in the facility or setting.

Sec. 17.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245C.14, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 3.

Disqualification from working in children's residential facilities and foster residence settings.

(a) For a background study affiliated with a children's residential facility or foster residence setting, if an individual is disqualified from direct contact under subdivision 1, the commissioner must also disqualify the individual from working in the children's residential facility or foster residence setting and from having access to a person receiving services from the facility or setting.

(b) Notwithstanding any other requirement of this chapter, for a background study affiliated with a Title IV-E eligible children's residential facility or foster residence setting, if an individual is disqualified, the individual may not work in the facility or setting until the commissioner has issued a notice stating that:

(1) the individual is not disqualified;

(2) a disqualification has been set aside under section 245C.23; or

(3) a variance has been granted related to the individual under section 245C.30.

Sec. 18.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245C.16, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Determining immediate risk of harm.

(a) If the commissioner determines that the individual studied has a disqualifying characteristic, the commissioner shall review the information immediately available and make a determination as to the subject's immediate risk of harm to persons served by the program where the individual studied will have direct contact with, or access to, people receiving services.

(b) The commissioner shall consider all relevant information available, including the following factors in determining the immediate risk of harm:

(1) the recency of the disqualifying characteristic;

(2) the recency of discharge from probation for the crimes;

(3) the number of disqualifying characteristics;

(4) the intrusiveness or violence of the disqualifying characteristic;

(5) the vulnerability of the victim involved in the disqualifying characteristic;

(6) the similarity of the victim to the persons served by the program where the individual studied will have direct contact;

(7) whether the individual has a disqualification from a previous background study that has not been set aside; and

(8) if the individual has a disqualification which may not be set aside because it is a permanent bar under section 245C.24, subdivision 1, or the individual is a child care background study subject who has a felony-level conviction for a drug-related offense in the last five years, the commissioner may order the immediate removal of the individual from any position allowing direct contact with, or access to, persons receiving services from the program and from working in a children's residential facility or foster residence setting.

(c) This section does not apply when the subject of a background study is regulated by a health-related licensing board as defined in chapter 214, and the subject is determined to be responsible for substantiated maltreatment under section 626.556 or 626.557.

(d) This section does not apply to a background study related to an initial application for a child foster care family setting license.

(e) Except for paragraph (f), this section does not apply to a background study that is also subject to the requirements under section 256B.0659, subdivisions 11 and 13, for a personal care assistant or a qualified professional as defined in section 256B.0659, subdivision 1.

(f) If the commissioner has reason to believe, based on arrest information or an active maltreatment investigation, that an individual poses an imminent risk of harm to persons receiving services, the commissioner may order that the person be continuously supervised or immediately removed pending the conclusion of the maltreatment investigation or criminal proceedings.

Sec. 19.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245C.16, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Findings.

(a) After evaluating the information immediately available under subdivision 1, the commissioner may have reason to believe one of the following:

(1) the individual poses an imminent risk of harm to persons served by the program where the individual studied will have direct contact or access to persons served by the program or where the individual studied will work;

(2) the individual poses a risk of harm requiring continuous, direct supervision while providing direct contact services during the period in which the subject may request a reconsideration; or

(3) the individual does not pose an imminent risk of harm or a risk of harm requiring continuous, direct supervision while providing direct contact services during the period in which the subject may request a reconsideration.

(b) After determining an individual's risk of harm under this section, the commissioner must notify the subject of the background study and the applicant or license holder as required under section 245C.17.

(c) For Title IV-E eligible children's residential facilities and foster residence settings, the commissioner is prohibited from making the findings in paragraph (a), clause (2) or (3).

Sec. 20.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245C.17, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Time frame for notice of study results and auditing system access.

(a) Within three working days after the commissioner's receipt of a request for a background study submitted through the commissioner's NETStudy or NETStudy 2.0 system, the commissioner shall notify the background study subject and the license holder or other entity as provided in this chapter in writing or by electronic transmission of the results of the study or that more time is needed to complete the study. The notice to the individual shall include the identity of the entity that initiated the background study.

(b) Before being provided access to NETStudy 2.0, the license holder or other entity under section 245C.04 shall sign an acknowledgment of responsibilities form developed by the commissioner that includes identifying the sensitive background study information person, who must be an employee of the license holder or entity. All queries to NETStudy 2.0 are electronically recorded and subject to audit by the commissioner. The electronic record shall identify the specific user. A background study subject may request in writing to the commissioner a report listing the entities that initiated a background study on the individual.

(c) When the commissioner has completed a prior background study on an individual that resulted in an order for immediate removal and more time is necessary to complete a subsequent study, the notice that more time is needed that is issued under paragraph (a) shall include an order for immediate removal of the individual from any position allowing direct contact with or access to people receiving services and from working in a children's residential facility or foster residence setting pending completion of the background study.

Sec. 21.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245C.17, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 7.

Disqualification notice to children's residential facilities and foster residence settings.

(a) For children's residential facilities and foster residence settings, all notices under this section that order the license holder to immediately remove the individual studied from any position allowing direct contact with, or access to a person served by the program, must also order the license holder to immediately remove the individual studied from working in the program, facility, or setting.

(b) For Title IV-E eligible children's residential facilities and foster residence settings, notices under this section must not allow an individual to work in the program, facility, or setting under supervision.

Sec. 22.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245C.18, is amended to read:

245C.18 OBLIGATION TO REMOVE DISQUALIFIED INDIVIDUAL FROM DIRECT CONTACT AND FROM WORKING IN A PROGRAM, FACILITY, OR SETTING.

(a) Upon receipt of notice from the commissioner, the license holder must remove a disqualified individual from direct contact with persons served by the licensed program if:

(1) the individual does not request reconsideration under section 245C.21 within the prescribed time;

(2) the individual submits a timely request for reconsideration, the commissioner does not set aside the disqualification under section 245C.22, subdivision 4, and the individual does not submit a timely request for a hearing under sections 245C.27 and 256.045, or 245C.28 and chapter 14; or

(3) the individual submits a timely request for a hearing under sections 245C.27 and 256.045, or 245C.28 and chapter 14, and the commissioner does not set aside or rescind the disqualification under section 245A.08, subdivision 5, or 256.045.

(b) For children's residential facility and foster residence setting license holders, upon receipt of notice from the commissioner under paragraph (a), the license holder must also remove the disqualified individual from working in the program, facility, or setting and from access to persons served by the licensed program.

(c) For Title IV-E eligible children's residential facility and foster residence setting license holders, upon receipt of notice from the commissioner under paragraph (a), the license holder must also remove the disqualified individual from working in the program and from access to persons served by the program and must not allow the individual to work in the facility or setting until the commissioner has issued a notice stating that:

(1) the individual is not disqualified;

(2) a disqualification has been set aside under section 245C.23; or

(3) a variance has been granted related to the individual under section 245C.30.

Sec. 23.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245D.04, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Protection-related rights.

(a) A person's protection-related rights include the right to:

(1) have personal, financial, service, health, and medical information kept private, and be advised of disclosure of this information by the license holder;

(2) access records and recorded information about the person in accordance with applicable state and federal law, regulation, or rule;

(3) be free from maltreatment;

(4) be free from restraint, time out, seclusion, restrictive intervention, or other prohibited procedure identified in section 245D.06, subdivision 5, or successor provisions, except for: (i) emergency use of manual restraint to protect the person from imminent danger to self or others according to the requirements in section 245D.061 or successor provisions; or (ii) the use of safety interventions as part of a positive support transition plan under section 245D.06, subdivision 8, or successor provisions;

(5) receive services in a clean and safe environment when the license holder is the owner, lessor, or tenant of the service site;

(6) be treated with courtesy and respect and receive respectful treatment of the person's property;

(7) reasonable observance of cultural and ethnic practice and religion;

(8) be free from bias and harassment regarding race, gender, age, disability, spirituality, and sexual orientation;

(9) be informed of and use the license holder's grievance policy and procedures, including knowing how to contact persons responsible for addressing problems and to appeal under section 256.045;

(10) know the name, telephone number, and the website, e-mail, and street addresses of protection and advocacy services, including the appropriate state-appointed ombudsman, and a brief description of how to file a complaint with these offices;

(11) assert these rights personally, or have them asserted by the person's family, authorized representative, or legal representative, without retaliation;

(12) give or withhold written informed consent to participate in any research or experimental treatment;

(13) associate with other persons of the person's choice, in the community;

(14) personal privacy, including the right to use the lock on the person's bedroom or unit door;

(15) engage in chosen activities; and

(16) access to the person's personal possessions at any time, including financial resources.

(b) For a person residing in a residential site licensed according to chapter 245A, or where the license holder is the owner, lessor, or tenant of the residential service site, protection-related rights also include the right to:

(1) have daily, private access to and use of a non-coin-operated telephone for local calls and long-distance calls made collect or paid for by the person;

(2) receive and send, without interference, uncensored, unopened mail or electronic correspondence or communication;

(3) have use of and free access to common areas in the residence and the freedom to come and go from the residence at will;

(4) choose the person's visitors and time of visits and have privacy for visits with the person's spouse, next of kin, legal counsel, religious adviser, or others, in accordance with section 363A.09 of the Human Rights Act, including privacy in the person's bedroom;

(5) have access to three nutritionally balanced meals and nutritious snacks between meals each day;

(6) have freedom and support to access food and potable water at any time;

(7) have the freedom to furnish and decorate the person's bedroom or living unit;

(8) a setting that is clean and free from accumulation of dirt, grease, garbage, peeling paint, mold, vermin, and insects;

(9) a setting that is free from hazards that threaten the person's health or safety; and

(10) a setting that meets the definition of a dwelling unit within a residential occupancy as defined in the State Fire Code.

(c) Restriction of a person's rights under paragraph (a), clauses (13) to (16), or paragraph (b) is allowed only if determined necessary to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of the person. Any restriction of those rights must be documented in the person's coordinated service and support plan or coordinated service and support plan addendum. The restriction must be implemented in the least restrictive alternative manner necessary to protect the person and provide support to reduce or eliminate the need for the restriction in the most integrated setting and inclusive manner. The documentation must include the following information:

(1) the justification for the restriction based on an assessment of the person's vulnerability related to exercising the right without restriction;

(2) the objective measures set as conditions for ending the restriction;

(3) a schedule for reviewing the need for the restriction based on the conditions for ending the restriction to occur semiannually from the date of initial approval, at a minimum, or more frequently if requested by the person, the person's legal representative, if any, and case manager; and

(4) signed and dated approval for the restriction from the person, or the person's legal representative, if any. A restriction may be implemented only when the required approval has been obtained. Approval may be withdrawn at any time. If approval is withdrawn, the right must be immediately and fully restored.

Sec. 24.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245D.06, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Environment and safety.

The license holder must:

(1) ensure the following when the license holder is the owner, lessor, or tenant of the service site:

(i) the service site is a safe and hazard-free environment;

(ii) that toxic substances or dangerous items are inaccessible to persons served by the program only to protect the safety of a person receiving services when a known safety threat exists and not as a substitute for staff supervision or interactions with a person who is receiving services. If toxic substances or dangerous items are made inaccessible, the license holder must document an assessment of the physical plant, its environment, and its population identifying the risk factors which require toxic substances or dangerous items to be inaccessible and a statement of specific measures to be taken to minimize the safety risk to persons receiving services and to restore accessibility to all persons receiving services at the service site;

(iii) doors are locked from the inside to prevent a person from exiting only when necessary to protect the safety of a person receiving services and not as a substitute for staff supervision or interactions with the person. If doors are locked from the inside, the license holder must document an assessment of the physical plant, the environment and the population served, identifying the risk factors which require the use of locked doors, and a statement of specific measures to be taken to minimize the safety risk to persons receiving services at the service site; and

(iv) a staff person is available at the service site who is trained in basic first aid and, when required in a person's coordinated service and support plan or coordinated service and support plan addendum, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) whenever persons are present and staff are required to be at the site to provide direct support service. The CPR training must include instruction, hands-on practice, and an observed skills assessment under the direct supervision of a CPR instructor; and

(v) that sharpened or metal knives are presumed to be inaccessible to an individual provisionally discharged from a commitment as mentally ill and dangerous who is residing in a licensed state-operated community-based program and whose provisional discharge plan restricts access to inherently dangerous instruments, including but not limited to knives, firearms, and explosives or incendiary material or devices, unless unsupervised access is approved by the individual, county case manager, and the individual's support team. Approval must be reflected in the coordinated service and support plan, the coordinated service and support plan addendum, or the self-management assessment. This provision does not apply to an individual who has been fully discharged from a commitment;

(2) maintain equipment, vehicles, supplies, and materials owned or leased by the license holder in good condition when used to provide services;

(3) follow procedures to ensure safe transportation, handling, and transfers of the person and any equipment used by the person, when the license holder is responsible for transportation of a person or a person's equipment;

(4) be prepared for emergencies and follow emergency response procedures to ensure the person's safety in an emergency; and

(5) follow universal precautions and sanitary practices, including hand washing, for infection prevention and control, and to prevent communicable diseases.

Sec. 25.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245D.10, subdivision 3a, is amended to read:

Subd. 3a.

Service termination.

(a) The license holder must establish policies and procedures for service termination that promote continuity of care and service coordination with the person and the case manager and with other licensed caregivers, if any, who also provide support to the person. The policy must include the requirements specified in paragraphs (b) to (f).

(b) The license holder must permit each person to remain in the program and must not terminate services unless:

(1) the termination is necessary for the person's welfare and the facility cannot meet the person's needs cannot be met in the facility;

(2) the safety of the person or others in the program is endangered and positive support strategies were attempted and have not achieved and effectively maintained safety for the person or others;

(3) the health of the person or others in the program would otherwise be endangered;

(4) the program has not been paid for services;

(5) the program ceases to operate; or

(6) the person has been terminated by the lead agency from waiver eligibility.; or

(7) for state-operated community-based services, the person no longer demonstrates complex behavioral needs that cannot be met by private community-based providers identified in section 252.50, subdivision 5, paragraph (a), clause (1).

(c) Prior to giving notice of service termination, the license holder must document actions taken to minimize or eliminate the need for termination. Action taken by the license holder must include, at a minimum:

(1) consultation with the person's support team or expanded support team to identify and resolve issues leading to issuance of the termination notice; and

(2) a request to the case manager for intervention services identified in section 245D.03, subdivision 1, paragraph (c), clause (1), or other professional consultation or intervention services to support the person in the program. This requirement does not apply to notices of service termination issued under paragraph (b), clause (4). clauses (4) and (7); and

(3) for state-operated community-based services terminating services under paragraph (b), clause (7), the state-operated community-based services must engage in consultation with the person's support team or expanded support team to:

(i) identify that the person no longer demonstrates complex behavioral needs that cannot be met by private community-based providers identified in section 252.50, subdivision 5, paragraph (a), clause (1);

(ii) provide notice of intent to issue a termination of services to the lead agency when a finding has been made that a person no longer demonstrates complex behavioral needs that cannot be met by private community-based providers identified in section 252.50, subdivision 5, paragraph (a), clause (1);

(iii) assist the lead agency and case manager in developing a person-centered transition plan to a private community-based provider to ensure continuity of care; and

(iv) coordinate with the lead agency to ensure the private community-based service provider is able to meet the person's needs and criteria established in a person's person-centered transition plan.

If, based on the best interests of the person, the circumstances at the time of the notice were such that the license holder was unable to take the action specified in clauses (1) and (2), the license holder must document the specific circumstances and the reason for being unable to do so.

(d) The notice of service termination must meet the following requirements:

(1) the license holder must notify the person or the person's legal representative and the case manager in writing of the intended service termination. If the service termination is from residential supports and services as defined in section 245D.03, subdivision 1, paragraph (c), clause (3), the license holder must also notify the commissioner in writing; and

(2) the notice must include:

(i) the reason for the action;

(ii) except for a service termination under paragraph (b), clause (5), a summary of actions taken to minimize or eliminate the need for service termination or temporary service suspension as required under paragraph (c), and why these measures failed to prevent the termination or suspension;

(iii) the person's right to appeal the termination of services under section 256.045, subdivision 3, paragraph (a); and

(iv) the person's right to seek a temporary order staying the termination of services according to the procedures in section 256.045, subdivision 4a or 6, paragraph (c).

(e) Notice of the proposed termination of service, including those situations that began with a temporary service suspension, must be given at least 90 days prior to termination of services under paragraph (b), clause (7), 60 days prior to termination when a license holder is providing intensive supports and services identified in section 245D.03, subdivision 1, paragraph (c), and 30 days prior to termination for all other services licensed under this chapter. This notice may be given in conjunction with a notice of temporary service suspension under subdivision 3.

(f) During the service termination notice period, the license holder must:

(1) work with the support team or expanded support team to develop reasonable alternatives to protect the person and others and to support continuity of care;

(2) provide information requested by the person or case manager; and

(3) maintain information about the service termination, including the written notice of intended service termination, in the service recipient record.

(g) For notices issued under paragraph (b), clause (7), the lead agency shall provide notice to the commissioner and state-operated services at least 30 days before the conclusion of the 90-day termination period, if an appropriate alternative provider cannot be secured. Upon receipt of this notice, the commissioner and state-operated services shall reassess whether a private community-based service can meet the person's needs. If the commissioner determines that a private provider can meet the person's needs, state-operated services shall, if necessary, extend notice of service termination until placement can be made. If the commissioner determines that a private provider cannot meet the person's needs, state-operated services shall rescind the notice of service termination and re-engage with the lead agency in service planning for the person.

(h) For state-operated community-based services, the license holder shall prioritize the capacity created within the existing service site by the termination of services under paragraph (b), clause (7), to serve persons described in section 252.50, subdivision 5, paragraph (a), clause (1).

Sec. 26.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245F.02, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7.

Clinically managed program.

"Clinically managed program" means a residential setting with staff comprised of a medical director and a licensed practical nurse. A licensed practical nurse must be on site 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A qualified medical professional licensed practitioner must be available by telephone or in person for consultation 24 hours a day. Patients admitted to this level of service receive medical observation, evaluation, and stabilization services during the detoxification process; access to medications administered by trained, licensed staff to manage withdrawal; and a comprehensive assessment pursuant to section 245G.05 245F.06.

Sec. 27.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245F.02, subdivision 14, is amended to read:

Subd. 14.

Medically monitored program.

"Medically monitored program" means a residential setting with staff that includes a registered nurse and a medical director. A registered nurse must be on site 24 hours a day. A medical director licensed practitioner must be on site available seven days a week, and patients must have the ability to be seen by a medical director licensed practitioner within 24 hours. Patients admitted to this level of service receive medical observation, evaluation, and stabilization services during the detoxification process; medications administered by trained, licensed staff to manage withdrawal; and a comprehensive assessment pursuant to Minnesota Rules, part 9530.6422 section 245F.06.

Sec. 28.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245F.06, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Comprehensive assessment and assessment summary.

(a) Prior to a medically stable discharge, but not later than 72 hours following admission, a license holder must provide a comprehensive assessment and assessment summary according to sections 245.4863, paragraph (a), and 245G.05, for each patient who has a positive screening for a substance use disorder. If a patient's medical condition prevents a comprehensive assessment from being completed within 72 hours, the license holder must document why the assessment was not completed. The comprehensive assessment must include documentation of the appropriateness of an involuntary referral through the civil commitment process.

(b) If available to the program, a patient's previous comprehensive assessment may be used in the patient record. If a previously completed comprehensive assessment is used, its contents must be reviewed to ensure the assessment is accurate and current and complies with the requirements of this chapter. The review must be completed by a staff person qualified according to section 245G.11, subdivision 5. The license holder must document that the review was completed and that the previously completed assessment is accurate and current, or the license holder must complete an updated or new assessment.

Sec. 29.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245F.12, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Services provided at clinically managed programs.

In addition to the services listed in subdivision 1, clinically managed programs must:

(1) have a licensed practical nurse on site 24 hours a day and a medical director;

(2) provide an initial health assessment conducted by a nurse upon admission;

(3) provide daily on-site medical evaluation by a nurse;

(4) have a registered nurse available by telephone or in person for consultation 24 hours a day;

(5) have a qualified medical professional licensed practitioner available by telephone or in person for consultation 24 hours a day; and

(6) have appropriately licensed staff available to administer medications according to prescriber-approved orders.

Sec. 30.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245F.12, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Services provided at medically monitored programs.

In addition to the services listed in subdivision 1, medically monitored programs must have a registered nurse on site 24 hours a day and a medical director. Medically monitored programs must provide intensive inpatient withdrawal management services which must include:

(1) an initial health assessment conducted by a registered nurse upon admission;

(2) the availability of a medical evaluation and consultation with a registered nurse 24 hours a day;

(3) the availability of a qualified medical professional licensed practitioner by telephone or in person for consultation 24 hours a day;

(4) the ability to be seen within 24 hours or sooner by a qualified medical professional licensed practitioner if the initial health assessment indicates the need to be seen;

(5) the availability of on-site monitoring of patient care seven days a week by a qualified medical professional licensed practitioner; and

(6) appropriately licensed staff available to administer medications according to prescriber-approved orders.

Sec. 31.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245G.02, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Exemption from license requirement.

This chapter does not apply to a county or recovery community organization that is providing a service for which the county or recovery community organization is an eligible vendor under section 254B.05. This chapter does not apply to an organization whose primary functions are information, referral, diagnosis, case management, and assessment for the purposes of client placement, education, support group services, or self-help programs. This chapter does not apply to the activities of a licensed professional in private practice. A license holder providing the initial set of substance use disorder services allowable under section 254A.03, subdivision 3, paragraph (c), to an individual referred to a licensed nonresidential substance use disorder treatment program after a positive screen for alcohol or substance misuse is exempt from sections 245G.05; 245G.06, subdivisions 1, 2, and 4; 245G.07, subdivisions 1, paragraph (a), clauses (2) to (4), and 2, clauses (1) to (7); and 245G.17.

Sec. 32.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245G.09, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Client records required.

(a) A license holder must maintain a file of current and accurate client records on the premises where the treatment service is provided or coordinated. For services provided off site, client records must be available at the program and adhere to the same clinical and administrative policies and procedures as services provided on site. The content and format of client records must be uniform and entries in each record must be signed and dated by the staff member making the entry. Client records must be protected against loss, tampering, or unauthorized disclosure according to section 254A.09, chapter 13, and Code of Federal Regulations, title 42, chapter 1, part 2, subpart B, sections 2.1 to 2.67, and title 45, parts 160 to 164.

(b) The program must have a policy and procedure that identifies how the program will track and record client attendance at treatment activities, including the date, duration, and nature of each treatment service provided to the client.

(c) The program must identify in the client record designation of an individual who is receiving services under section 254A.03, subdivision 3, including the start date and end date of services eligible under section 254A.03, subdivision 3.

Sec. 33.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 254A.03, subdivision 3, as amended by Laws 2020, chapter 74, article 3, section 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Rules for substance use disorder care.

(a) The commissioner of human services shall establish by rule criteria to be used in determining the appropriate level of chemical dependency care for each recipient of public assistance seeking treatment for substance misuse or substance use disorder. Upon federal approval of a comprehensive assessment as a Medicaid benefit, or on July 1, 2018, whichever is later, and notwithstanding the criteria in Minnesota Rules, parts 9530.6600 to 9530.6655, an eligible vendor of comprehensive assessments under section 254B.05 may determine and approve the appropriate level of substance use disorder treatment for a recipient of public assistance. The process for determining an individual's financial eligibility for the consolidated chemical dependency treatment fund or determining an individual's enrollment in or eligibility for a publicly subsidized health plan is not affected by the individual's choice to access a comprehensive assessment for placement.

(b) The commissioner shall develop and implement a utilization review process for publicly funded treatment placements to monitor and review the clinical appropriateness and timeliness of all publicly funded placements in treatment.

(c) If a screen result is positive for alcohol or substance misuse, a brief screening for alcohol or substance use disorder that is provided to a recipient of public assistance within a primary care clinic, hospital, or other medical setting or school setting establishes medical necessity and approval for an initial set of substance use disorder services identified in section 254B.05, subdivision 5. The initial set of services approved for a recipient whose screen result is positive may include any combination of up to four hours of individual or group substance use disorder treatment, two hours of substance use disorder treatment coordination, or two hours of substance use disorder peer support services provided by a qualified individual according to chapter 245G. A recipient must obtain an assessment pursuant to paragraph (a) to be approved for additional treatment services. Minnesota Rules, parts 9530.6600 to 9530.6655, and a comprehensive assessment pursuant to section 245G.05 are not applicable to the initial set of services allowed under this subdivision. A positive screen result establishes eligibility for the initial set of services allowed under this subdivision.

(d) Notwithstanding Minnesota Rules, parts 9530.6600 to 9530.6655, an individual may choose to obtain a comprehensive assessment as provided in section 245G.05. Individuals obtaining a comprehensive assessment may access any enrolled provider that is licensed to provide the level of service authorized pursuant to section 254A.19, subdivision 3, paragraph (d). If the individual is enrolled in a prepaid health plan, the individual must comply with any provider network requirements or limitations. This paragraph expires July 1, 2022.

Sec. 34.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 254B.05, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Licensure required.

(a) Programs licensed by the commissioner are eligible vendors. Hospitals may apply for and receive licenses to be eligible vendors, notwithstanding the provisions of section 245A.03. American Indian programs that provide substance use disorder treatment, extended care, transitional residence, or outpatient treatment services, and are licensed by tribal government are eligible vendors.

(b) A licensed professional in private practice as defined in section 245G.01, subdivision 17, who meets the requirements of section 245G.11, subdivisions 1 and 4, is an eligible vendor of a comprehensive assessment and assessment summary provided according to section 245G.05, and treatment services provided according to sections 245G.06 and 245G.07, subdivision 1, paragraphs (a), clauses (1) to (4) (5), and (b); and subdivision 2, clauses (1) to (6).

(c) A county is an eligible vendor for a comprehensive assessment and assessment summary when provided by an individual who meets the staffing credentials of section 245G.11, subdivisions 1 and 5, and completed according to the requirements of section 245G.05. A county is an eligible vendor of care coordination services when provided by an individual who meets the staffing credentials of section 245G.11, subdivisions 1 and 7, and provided according to the requirements of section 245G.07, subdivision 1, paragraph (a), clause (5).

(d) A recovery community organization that meets certification requirements identified by the commissioner is an eligible vendor of peer support services.

(e) Detoxification programs licensed under Minnesota Rules, parts 9530.6510 to 9530.6590, are not eligible vendors. Programs that are not licensed as a residential or nonresidential substance use disorder treatment or withdrawal management program by the commissioner or by tribal government or do not meet the requirements of subdivisions 1a and 1b are not eligible vendors.

Sec. 35.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256.0112, subdivision 10, is amended to read:

Subd. 10.

Contracts for child foster care services.

When local agencies negotiate lead county contracts or purchase of service contracts for child foster care services, the foster care maintenance payment made on behalf of the child shall follow the provisions of Northstar Care for Children, chapter 256N. Foster care maintenance payments as defined in section 256N.02, subdivision 15, represent costs for activities similar in nature to those expected of parents and do not cover services rendered by the licensed or tribally approved foster parent, facility, or administrative costs or fees. Payments made to foster parents must follow the requirements of section 256N.26, subdivision 15. The legally responsible agency must provide foster parents with the assessment and notice as specified in section 256N.24. The financially responsible agency is permitted to make additional payments for specific services provided by the foster parents or facility, as permitted in section 256N.21, subdivision 5. These additional payments are not considered foster care maintenance.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 36.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256.82, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Foster care maintenance payments.

(a) For the purpose of foster care maintenance payments under title IV-E of the Social Security Act, United States Code, title 42, sections 670 to 676, the county or American Indian child welfare initiative tribes under section 256.01, subdivision 14b, paying the maintenance costs must be reimbursed for the costs from the federal money available for the purpose. Beginning July 1, 1997, for the purposes of determining a child's eligibility under title IV-E of the Social Security Act, the placing agency shall use AFDC requirements in effect on July 16, 1996.

(b) For the purpose of foster care maintenance payments under title IV-E of the Social Security Act, United States Code, title 42, sections 670 to 676, the state is responsible for approving of child care institutions for the county paying the facility's maintenance costs to be reimbursed from the federal money available for the purpose. The facility must be licensed by the state or approved or licensed by a tribe.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 37.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256.87, subdivision 8, is amended to read:

Subd. 8.

Disclosure prohibited.

Notwithstanding statutory or other authorization for The public authority to shall not release private data on the location of a party to the action, information on the location of one party may not be released to the other party by the public authority or the joint child if:

(1) the public authority has knowledge that one party is currently subject to a protective order with respect to the other party has been entered or the joint child, and the protected party or guardian of the joint child has not authorized disclosure; or

(2) the public authority has reason to believe that the release of the information may result in physical or emotional harm to the other a party or the joint child.

Sec. 38.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0625, subdivision 5l, is amended to read:

Subd. 5l.

Intensive mental health outpatient treatment.

Medical assistance covers intensive mental health outpatient treatment for dialectical behavioral therapy for adults. The commissioner shall establish:

(1) certification procedures to ensure that providers of these services are qualified; and

(2) treatment protocols including required service components and criteria for admission, continued treatment, and discharge.

Sec. 39.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 256B.064, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Imposition of monetary recovery and sanctions.

(a) The commissioner shall determine any monetary amounts to be recovered and sanctions to be imposed upon a vendor of medical care under this section. Except as provided in paragraphs (b) and (d), neither a monetary recovery nor a sanction will be imposed by the commissioner without prior notice and an opportunity for a hearing, according to chapter 14, on the commissioner's proposed action, provided that the commissioner may suspend or reduce payment to a vendor of medical care, except a nursing home or convalescent care facility, after notice and prior to the hearing if in the commissioner's opinion that action is necessary to protect the public welfare and the interests of the program.

(b) Except when the commissioner finds good cause not to suspend payments under Code of Federal Regulations, title 42, section 455.23 (e) or (f), the commissioner shall withhold or reduce payments to a vendor of medical care without providing advance notice of such withholding or reduction if either of the following occurs:

(1) the vendor is convicted of a crime involving the conduct described in subdivision 1a; or

(2) the commissioner determines there is a credible allegation of fraud for which an investigation is pending under the program. A credible allegation of fraud is an allegation which has been verified by the state, from any source, including but not limited to:

(i) fraud hotline complaints;

(ii) claims data mining; and

(iii) patterns identified through provider audits, civil false claims cases, and law enforcement investigations.

Allegations are considered to be credible when they have an indicia of reliability and the state agency has reviewed all allegations, facts, and evidence carefully and acts judiciously on a case-by-case basis.

(c) The commissioner must send notice of the withholding or reduction of payments under paragraph (b) within five days of taking such action unless requested in writing by a law enforcement agency to temporarily withhold the notice. The notice must:

(1) state that payments are being withheld according to paragraph (b);

(2) set forth the general allegations as to the nature of the withholding action, but need not disclose any specific information concerning an ongoing investigation;

(3) except in the case of a conviction for conduct described in subdivision 1a, state that the withholding is for a temporary period and cite the circumstances under which withholding will be terminated;

(4) identify the types of claims to which the withholding applies; and

(5) inform the vendor of the right to submit written evidence for consideration by the commissioner.

The withholding or reduction of payments will not continue after the commissioner determines there is insufficient evidence of fraud by the vendor, or after legal proceedings relating to the alleged fraud are completed, unless the commissioner has sent notice of intention to impose monetary recovery or sanctions under paragraph (a). Upon conviction for a crime related to the provision, management, or administration of a health service under medical assistance, a payment held pursuant to this section by the commissioner or a managed care organization that contracts with the commissioner under section 256B.035 is forfeited to the commissioner or managed care organization, regardless of the amount charged in the criminal complaint or the amount of criminal restitution ordered.

(d) The commissioner shall suspend or terminate a vendor's participation in the program without providing advance notice and an opportunity for a hearing when the suspension or termination is required because of the vendor's exclusion from participation in Medicare. Within five days of taking such action, the commissioner must send notice of the suspension or termination. The notice must:

(1) state that suspension or termination is the result of the vendor's exclusion from Medicare;

(2) identify the effective date of the suspension or termination; and

(3) inform the vendor of the need to be reinstated to Medicare before reapplying for participation in the program.

(e) Upon receipt of a notice under paragraph (a) that a monetary recovery or sanction is to be imposed, a vendor may request a contested case, as defined in section 14.02, subdivision 3, by filing with the commissioner a written request of appeal. The appeal request must be received by the commissioner no later than 30 days after the date the notification of monetary recovery or sanction was mailed to the vendor. The appeal request must specify:

(1) each disputed item, the reason for the dispute, and an estimate of the dollar amount involved for each disputed item;

(2) the computation that the vendor believes is correct;

(3) the authority in statute or rule upon which the vendor relies for each disputed item;

(4) the name and address of the person or entity with whom contacts may be made regarding the appeal; and

(5) other information required by the commissioner.

(f) The commissioner may order a vendor to forfeit a fine for failure to fully document services according to standards in this chapter and Minnesota Rules, chapter 9505. The commissioner may assess fines if specific required components of documentation are missing. The fine for incomplete documentation shall equal 20 percent of the amount paid on the claims for reimbursement submitted by the vendor, or up to $5,000, whichever is less. If the commissioner determines that a vendor repeatedly violated this chapter, chapter 254B or 245G, or Minnesota Rules, chapter 9505, related to the provision of services to program recipients and the submission of claims for payment, the commissioner may order a vendor to forfeit a fine based on the nature, severity, and chronicity of the violations, in an amount of up to $5,000 or 20 percent of the value of the claims, whichever is greater.

(g) The vendor shall pay the fine assessed on or before the payment date specified. If the vendor fails to pay the fine, the commissioner may withhold or reduce payments and recover the amount of the fine. A timely appeal shall stay payment of the fine until the commissioner issues a final order.

Sec. 40.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0652, subdivision 10, is amended to read:

Subd. 10.

Authorization for foster care setting.

(a) Home care services provided in an adult or child foster care setting must receive authorization by the commissioner according to the limits established in subdivision 11.

(b) The commissioner may not authorize:

(1) home care services that are the responsibility of the foster care provider under the terms of the foster care placement agreement, difficulty of care rate as of January 1, 2010 assessment under sections 256N.24 and 260C.4411, and administrative rules;

(2) personal care assistance services when the foster care license holder is also the personal care provider or personal care assistant, unless the foster home is the licensed provider's primary residence as defined in section 256B.0625, subdivision 19a; or

(3) personal care assistant and home care nursing services when the licensed capacity is greater than four six, unless all conditions for a variance under section 245A.04, subdivision 9a, are satisfied for a sibling, as defined in section 260C.007, subdivision 32.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 41.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0949, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Definitions.

(a) The terms used in this section have the meanings given in this subdivision.

(b) "Agency" means the legal entity that is enrolled with Minnesota health care programs as a medical assistance provider according to Minnesota Rules, part 9505.0195, to provide EIDBI services and that has the legal responsibility to ensure that its employees or contractors carry out the responsibilities defined in this section. Agency includes a licensed individual professional who practices independently and acts as an agency.

(c) "Autism spectrum disorder or a related condition" or "ASD or a related condition" means either autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as defined in the current version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) or a condition that is found to be closely related to ASD, as identified under the current version of the DSM, and meets all of the following criteria:

(1) is severe and chronic;

(2) results in impairment of adaptive behavior and function similar to that of a person with ASD;

(3) requires treatment or services similar to those required for a person with ASD; and

(4) results in substantial functional limitations in three core developmental deficits of ASD: social or interpersonal interaction; functional communication, including nonverbal or social communication; and restrictive, or repetitive behaviors or hyperreactivity or hyporeactivity to sensory input; and may include deficits or a high level of support in one or more of the following domains:

(i) behavioral challenges and self-regulation;

(ii) cognition;

(iii) learning and play;

(ii) (iv) self-care; or

(iii) behavioral challenges;

(iv) expressive communication;

(v) receptive communication;

(vi) cognitive functioning; or

(vii) (v) safety.

(d) "Person" means a person under 21 years of age.

(e) "Clinical supervision" means the overall responsibility for the control and direction of EIDBI service delivery, including individual treatment planning, staff supervision, individual treatment plan progress monitoring, and treatment review for each person. Clinical supervision is provided by a qualified supervising professional (QSP) who takes full professional responsibility for the service provided by each supervisee.

(f) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of human services, unless otherwise specified.

(g) "Comprehensive multidisciplinary evaluation" or "CMDE" means a comprehensive evaluation of a person to determine medical necessity for EIDBI services based on the requirements in subdivision 5.

(h) "Department" means the Department of Human Services, unless otherwise specified.

(i) "Early intensive developmental and behavioral intervention benefit" or "EIDBI benefit" means a variety of individualized, intensive treatment modalities approved and published by the commissioner that are based in behavioral and developmental science consistent with best practices on effectiveness.

(j) "Generalizable goals" means results or gains that are observed during a variety of activities over time with different people, such as providers, family members, other adults, and people, and in different environments including, but not limited to, clinics, homes, schools, and the community.

(k) "Incident" means when any of the following occur:

(1) an illness, accident, or injury that requires first aid treatment;

(2) a bump or blow to the head; or

(3) an unusual or unexpected event that jeopardizes the safety of a person or staff, including a person leaving the agency unattended.

(l) "Individual treatment plan" or "ITP" means the person-centered, individualized written plan of care that integrates and coordinates person and family information from the CMDE for a person who meets medical necessity for the EIDBI benefit. An individual treatment plan must meet the standards in subdivision 6.

(m) "Legal representative" means the parent of a child who is under 18 years of age, a court-appointed guardian, or other representative with legal authority to make decisions about service for a person. For the purpose of this subdivision, "other representative with legal authority to make decisions" includes a health care agent or an attorney-in-fact authorized through a health care directive or power of attorney.

(n) "Mental health professional" has the meaning given in section 245.4871, subdivision 27, clauses (1) to (6).

(o) "Person-centered" means a service that both responds to the identified needs, interests, values, preferences, and desired outcomes of the person or the person's legal representative and respects the person's history, dignity, and cultural background and allows inclusion and participation in the person's community.

(p) "Qualified EIDBI provider" means a person who is a QSP or a level I, level II, or level III treatment provider.

Sec. 42.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0949, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Comprehensive multidisciplinary evaluation.

(a) A CMDE must be completed to determine medical necessity of EIDBI services. For the commissioner to authorize EIDBI services, the CMDE provider must submit the CMDE to the commissioner and the person or the person's legal representative as determined by the commissioner. Information and assessments must be performed, reviewed, and relied upon for the eligibility determination, treatment and services recommendations, and treatment plan development for the person.

(b) The CMDE provider must review the diagnostic assessment to confirm the person has an eligible diagnosis and the diagnostic assessment meets standards required under subdivision 4. If the CMDE provider elects to complete the diagnostic assessment at the same time as the CMDE, the CMDE provider must certify that the CMDE meets all standards as required under subdivision 4.

(b) (c) The CMDE must:

(1) include an assessment of the person's developmental skills, functional behavior, needs, and capacities based on direct observation of the person which must be administered by a CMDE provider, include medical or assessment information from the person's physician or advanced practice registered nurse, and may also include input from family members, school personnel, child care providers, or other caregivers, as well as any medical or assessment information from other licensed professionals such as rehabilitation or habilitation therapists, licensed school personnel, or mental health professionals;

(2) include and document the person's legal representative's or primary caregiver's preferences for involvement in the person's treatment; and

(3) provide information about the range of current EIDBI treatment modalities recognized by the commissioner.

Sec. 43.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0949, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Individual treatment plan.

(a) The QSP, level I treatment provider, or level II treatment provider who integrates and coordinates person and family information from the CMDE and ITP progress monitoring process to develop the ITP must develop and monitor the ITP.

(b) Each person's ITP must be:

(1) culturally and linguistically appropriate, as required under subdivision 3a, individualized, and person-centered; and

(2) based on the diagnosis and CMDE information specified in subdivisions 4 and 5.

(c) The ITP must specify:

(1) the medically necessary treatment and service;

(2) the treatment modality that shall be used to meet the goals and objectives, including:

(i) baseline measures and projected dates of accomplishment;

(ii) the frequency, intensity, location, and duration of each service provided;

(iii) the level of legal representative or primary caregiver training and counseling;

(iv) any change or modification to the physical and social environments necessary to provide a service;

(v) significant changes in the person's condition or family circumstance;

(vi) any specialized equipment or material required;

(vii) (vi) techniques that support and are consistent with the person's communication mode and learning style;

(viii) (vii) the name of the QSP; and

(ix) (viii) progress monitoring results and goal mastery data; and

(3) the discharge criteria that shall must be used and a defined transition plan that meets the requirement of paragraph (g).

(d) Implementation of the ITP must be supervised by a QSP.

(e) The ITP must be submitted to the commissioner and the person or the person's legal representative for approval in a manner determined by the commissioner for this purpose.

(f) A service included in the ITP must meet all applicable requirements for medical necessity and coverage.

(g) To terminate service, the provider must send notice of termination to the person or the person's legal representative. The transition period begins when the person or the person's legal representative receives notice of termination from the EIDBI service and ends when the EIDBI service is terminated. Up to 30 days of continued service is allowed during the transition period. Services during the transition period shall be consistent with the ITP. The transition plan shall must include:

(1) protocols for changing service when medically necessary;

(2) how the transition will occur;

(3) the time allowed to make the transition; and

(4) a description of how the person or the person's legal representative will be informed of and involved in the transition.

Sec. 44.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0949, subdivision 9, is amended to read:

Subd. 9.

Revision of treatment options.

(a) The commissioner may revise covered treatment options modalities as needed based on outcome data and other evidence. EIDBI treatment modalities approved by the department must:

(1) cause no harm to the person or the person's family;

(2) be individualized and person-centered;

(3) be developmentally appropriate and highly structured, with well-defined goals and objectives that provide a strategic direction for treatment;

(4) be based in recognized principles of developmental and behavioral science;

(5) utilize sound practices that are replicable across providers and maintain the fidelity of the specific modality;

(6) demonstrate an evidentiary basis;

(7) have goals and objectives that are measurable, achievable, and regularly evaluated and adjusted to ensure that adequate progress is being made;

(8) be provided intensively with a high staff-to-person ratio; and

(9) include participation by the person and the person's legal representative in decision making, knowledge building and capacity building, and developing and implementing the person's ITP.

(b) Before revisions in department recognized treatment modalities become effective, the commissioner must provide public notice of the changes, the reasons for the change, and a 30-day public comment period to those who request notice through an electronic list accessible to the public on the department's website.

Sec. 45.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0949, subdivision 13, is amended to read:

Subd. 13.

Covered services.

(a) The services described in paragraphs (b) to (i) (l) are eligible for reimbursement by medical assistance under this section. Services must be provided by a qualified EIDBI provider and supervised by a QSP. An EIDBI service must address the person's medically necessary treatment goals and must be targeted to develop, enhance, or maintain the individual developmental skills of a person with ASD or a related condition to improve functional communication, including nonverbal or social communication, social or interpersonal interaction, restrictive or repetitive behaviors, hyperreactivity or hyporeactivity to sensory input, behavioral challenges and self-regulation, cognition, learning and play, self-care, and safety.

(b) EIDBI modalities include, but are not limited to: treatment must be delivered consistent with the standards of an approved modality, as published by the commissioner. EIDBI modalities include:

(1) applied behavior analysis (ABA);

(2) developmental individual-difference relationship-based model (DIR/Floortime);

(3) early start Denver model (ESDM);

(4) PLAY project; or

(5) relationship development intervention (RDI).; or

(6) additional modalities not listed in clauses (1) to (5) upon approval by the commissioner.

(c) An EIDBI provider may use one or more of the EIDBI modalities in paragraph (b), clauses (1) to (5), as the primary modality for treatment as a covered service, or several EIDBI modalities in combination as the primary modality of treatment, as approved by the commissioner. An EIDBI provider that identifies and provides assurance of qualifications for a single specific treatment modality must document the required qualifications to meet fidelity to the specific model. Additional EIDBI modalities not listed in paragraph (b) may be covered upon approval by the commissioner.

(d) Each qualified EIDBI provider must identify and provide assurance of qualifications for professional licensure certification, or training in evidence-based treatment methods, and must document the required qualifications outlined in subdivision 15 in a manner determined by the commissioner.

(d) (e) CMDE is a comprehensive evaluation of the person's developmental status to determine medical necessity for EIDBI services and meets the requirements of subdivision 5. The services must be provided by a qualified CMDE provider.

(e) (f) EIDBI intervention observation and direction is the clinical direction and oversight of EIDBI services by the QSP, level I treatment provider, or level II treatment provider, including developmental and behavioral techniques, progress measurement, data collection, function of behaviors, and generalization of acquired skills for the direct benefit of a person. EIDBI intervention observation and direction informs any modification of the methods current treatment protocol to support the outcomes outlined in the ITP. EIDBI intervention observation and direction provides a real-time response to EIDBI interventions to maximize the benefit to the person.

(g) Intervention is medically necessary direct treatment provided to a person with ASD or a related condition as outlined in their ITP. All intervention services must be provided under the direction of a QSP. Intervention may take place across multiple settings. The frequency and intensity of intervention services are provided based on the number of treatment goals, person and family or caregiver preferences, and other factors. Intervention services may be provided individually or in a group. Intervention with a higher provider ratio may occur when deemed medically necessary through the person's ITP.

(1) Individual intervention is treatment by protocol administered by a single qualified EIDBI provider delivered face-to-face to one person.

(2) Group intervention is treatment by protocol provided by one or more qualified EIDBI providers, delivered to at least two people who receive EIDBI services.

(f) (h) ITP development and ITP progress monitoring is development of the initial, annual, and progress monitoring of an ITP. ITP development and ITP progress monitoring documents, provides provide oversight and ongoing evaluation of a person's treatment and progress on targeted goals and objectives, and integrates integrate and coordinates coordinate the person's and the person's legal representative's information from the CMDE and ITP progress monitoring. This service must be reviewed and completed by the QSP, and may include input from a level I treatment provider or a level II treatment provider.

(g) (i) Family caregiver training and counseling is specialized training and education for a family or primary caregiver to understand the person's developmental status and help with the person's needs and development. This service must be provided by the QSP, level I treatment provider, or level II treatment provider.

(h) (j) A coordinated care conference is a voluntary face-to-face meeting with the person and the person's family to review the CMDE or ITP progress monitoring and to integrate and coordinate services across providers and service-delivery systems to develop the ITP. This service must be provided by the QSP and may include the CMDE provider or a level I treatment provider or a level II treatment provider.

(i) (k) Travel time is allowable billing for traveling to and from the person's home, school, a community setting, or place of service outside of an EIDBI center, clinic, or office from a specified location to provide face-to-face EIDBI intervention, observation and direction, or family caregiver training and counseling. The person's ITP must specify the reasons the provider must travel to the person.

(j) (l) Medical assistance covers medically necessary EIDBI services and consultations delivered by a licensed health care provider via telemedicine, as defined under section 256B.0625, subdivision 3b, in the same manner as if the service or consultation was delivered in person. Medical assistance coverage is limited to three telemedicine services per person per calendar week.

Sec. 46.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0949, subdivision 14, is amended to read:

Subd. 14.

Person's rights.

A person or the person's legal representative has the right to:

(1) protection as defined under the health care bill of rights under section 144.651;

(2) designate an advocate to be present in all aspects of the person's and person's family's services at the request of the person or the person's legal representative;

(3) be informed of the agency policy on assigning staff to a person;

(4) be informed of the opportunity to observe the person while receiving services;

(5) be informed of services in a manner that respects and takes into consideration the person's and the person's legal representative's culture, values, and preferences in accordance with subdivision 3a;

(6) be free from seclusion and restraint, except for emergency use of manual restraint in emergencies as defined in section 245D.02, subdivision 8a;

(7) be under the supervision of a responsible adult at all times;

(8) be notified by the agency within 24 hours if an incident occurs or the person is injured while receiving services, including what occurred and how agency staff responded to the incident;

(9) request a voluntary coordinated care conference; and

(10) request a CMDE provider of the person's or the person's legal representative's choice.; and

(11) be free of all prohibitions as defined in Minnesota Rules, part 9544.0060.

Sec. 47.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0949, subdivision 15, is amended to read:

Subd. 15.

EIDBI provider qualifications.

(a) A QSP must be employed by an agency and be:

(1) a licensed mental health professional who has at least 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience or training in examining or treating people with ASD or a related condition or equivalent documented coursework at the graduate level by an accredited university in ASD diagnostics, ASD developmental and behavioral treatment strategies, and typical child development; or

(2) a developmental or behavioral pediatrician who has at least 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience or training in examining or treating people with ASD or a related condition or equivalent documented coursework at the graduate level by an accredited university in the areas of ASD diagnostics, ASD developmental and behavioral treatment strategies, and typical child development.

(b) A level I treatment provider must be employed by an agency and:

(1) have at least 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience or training in examining or treating people with ASD or a related condition or equivalent documented coursework at the graduate level by an accredited university in ASD diagnostics, ASD developmental and behavioral treatment strategies, and typical child development or an equivalent combination of documented coursework or hours of experience; and

(2) have or be at least one of the following:

(i) a master's degree in behavioral health or child development or related fields including, but not limited to, mental health, special education, social work, psychology, speech pathology, or occupational therapy from an accredited college or university;

(ii) a bachelor's degree in a behavioral health, child development, or related field including, but not limited to, mental health, special education, social work, psychology, speech pathology, or occupational therapy, from an accredited college or university, and advanced certification in a treatment modality recognized by the department;

(iii) a board-certified behavior analyst; or

(iv) a board-certified assistant behavior analyst with 4,000 hours of supervised clinical experience that meets all registration, supervision, and continuing education requirements of the certification.

(c) A level II treatment provider must be employed by an agency and must be:

(1) a person who has a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in a behavioral or child development science or related field including, but not limited to, mental health, special education, social work, psychology, speech pathology, or occupational therapy; and meet meets at least one of the following:

(i) has at least 1,000 hours of supervised clinical experience or training in examining or treating people with ASD or a related condition or equivalent documented coursework at the graduate level by an accredited university in ASD diagnostics, ASD developmental and behavioral treatment strategies, and typical child development or a combination of coursework or hours of experience;

(ii) has certification as a board-certified assistant behavior analyst from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board;

(iii) is a registered behavior technician as defined by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board; or

(iv) is certified in one of the other treatment modalities recognized by the department; or

(2) a person who has:

(i) an associate's degree in a behavioral or child development science or related field including, but not limited to, mental health, special education, social work, psychology, speech pathology, or occupational therapy from an accredited college or university; and

(ii) at least 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience in delivering treatment to people with ASD or a related condition. Hours worked as a mental health behavioral aide or level III treatment provider may be included in the required hours of experience; or

(3) a person who has at least 4,000 hours of supervised clinical experience in delivering treatment to people with ASD or a related condition. Hours worked as a mental health behavioral aide or level III treatment provider may be included in the required hours of experience; or

(4) a person who is a graduate student in a behavioral science, child development science, or related field and is receiving clinical supervision by a QSP affiliated with an agency to meet the clinical training requirements for experience and training with people with ASD or a related condition; or

(5) a person who is at least 18 years of age and who:

(i) is fluent in a non-English language;

(ii) completed the level III EIDBI training requirements; and

(iii) receives observation and direction from a QSP or level I treatment provider at least once a week until the person meets 1,000 hours of supervised clinical experience.

(d) A level III treatment provider must be employed by an agency, have completed the level III training requirement, be at least 18 years of age, and have at least one of the following:

(1) a high school diploma or commissioner of education-selected high school equivalency certification;

(2) fluency in a non-English language; or

(3) one year of experience as a primary personal care assistant, community health worker, waiver service provider, or special education assistant to a person with ASD or a related condition within the previous five years.; or

(4) completion of all required EIDBI training within six months of employment.

Sec. 48.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256B.0949, subdivision 16, is amended to read:

Subd. 16.

Agency duties.

(a) An agency delivering an EIDBI service under this section must:

(1) enroll as a medical assistance Minnesota health care program provider according to Minnesota Rules, part 9505.0195, and section 256B.04, subdivision 21, and meet all applicable provider standards and requirements;

(2) demonstrate compliance with federal and state laws for EIDBI service;

(3) verify and maintain records of a service provided to the person or the person's legal representative as required under Minnesota Rules, parts 9505.2175 and 9505.2197;

(4) demonstrate that while enrolled or seeking enrollment as a Minnesota health care program provider the agency did not have a lead agency contract or provider agreement discontinued because of a conviction of fraud; or did not have an owner, board member, or manager fail a state or federal criminal background check or appear on the list of excluded individuals or entities maintained by the federal Department of Human Services Office of Inspector General;

(5) have established business practices including written policies and procedures, internal controls, and a system that demonstrates the organization's ability to deliver quality EIDBI services;

(6) have an office located in Minnesota or a border state;

(7) conduct a criminal background check on an individual who has direct contact with the person or the person's legal representative;

(8) report maltreatment according to sections 626.556 and 626.557;

(9) comply with any data requests consistent with the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act, sections 256B.064 and 256B.27;

(10) provide training for all agency staff on the requirements and responsibilities listed in the Maltreatment of Minors Act, section 626.556, and the Vulnerable Adult Protection Act, section 626.557, including mandated and voluntary reporting, nonretaliation, and the agency's policy for all staff on how to report suspected abuse and neglect;

(11) have a written policy to resolve issues collaboratively with the person and the person's legal representative when possible. The policy must include a timeline for when the person and the person's legal representative will be notified about issues that arise in the provision of services;

(12) provide the person's legal representative with prompt notification if the person is injured while being served by the agency. An incident report must be completed by the agency staff member in charge of the person. A copy of all incident and injury reports must remain on file at the agency for at least five years from the report of the incident; and

(13) before starting a service, provide the person or the person's legal representative a description of the treatment modality that the person shall receive, including the staffing certification levels and training of the staff who shall provide a treatment.

(b) When delivering the ITP, and annually thereafter, an agency must provide the person or the person's legal representative with:

(1) a written copy and a verbal explanation of the person's or person's legal representative's rights and the agency's responsibilities;

(2) documentation in the person's file the date that the person or the person's legal representative received a copy and explanation of the person's or person's legal representative's rights and the agency's responsibilities; and

(3) reasonable accommodations to provide the information in another format or language as needed to facilitate understanding of the person's or person's legal representative's rights and the agency's responsibilities.

Sec. 49.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256D.02, subdivision 17, is amended to read:

Subd. 17.

Professional certification.

"Professional certification" means a statement about a person's illness, injury, or incapacity that is signed by a "qualified professional" as defined in section 256J.08, subdivision 73a 256P.01, subdivision 6a.

Sec. 50.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256I.03, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Housing support.

"Housing support" means a group living situation assistance that provides at a minimum room and board to unrelated persons who meet the eligibility requirements of section 256I.04. To receive payment for a group residence rate housing support, the residence must meet the requirements under section 256I.04, subdivisions 2a to 2f.

Sec. 51.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256I.03, subdivision 14, is amended to read:

Subd. 14.

Qualified professional.

"Qualified professional" means an individual as defined in section 256J.08, subdivision 73a, or 245G.11, subdivision 3, 4, or 5, or 256P.01, subdivision 6a; or an individual approved by the director of human services or a designee of the director.

Sec. 52.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 256I.04, subdivision 2b, is amended to read:

Subd. 2b.

Housing support agreements.

(a) Agreements between agencies and providers of housing support must be in writing on a form developed and approved by the commissioner and must specify the name and address under which the establishment subject to the agreement does business and under which the establishment, or service provider, if different from the group residential housing establishment, is licensed by the Department of Health or the Department of Human Services; the specific license or registration from the Department of Health or the Department of Human Services held by the provider and the number of beds subject to that license; the address of the location or locations at which group residential housing support is provided under this agreement; the per diem and monthly rates that are to be paid from housing support funds for each eligible resident at each location; the number of beds at each location which are subject to the agreement; whether the license holder is a not-for-profit corporation under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code; and a statement that the agreement is subject to the provisions of sections 256I.01 to 256I.06 and subject to any changes to those sections.

(b) Providers are required to verify the following minimum requirements in the agreement:

(1) current license or registration, including authorization if managing or monitoring medications;

(2) all staff who have direct contact with recipients meet the staff qualifications;

(3) the provision of housing support;

(4) the provision of supplementary services, if applicable;

(5) reports of adverse events, including recipient death or serious injury;

(6) submission of residency requirements that could result in recipient eviction; and

(7) confirmation that the provider will not limit or restrict the number of hours an applicant or recipient chooses to be employed, as specified in subdivision 5.

(c) Agreements may be terminated with or without cause by the commissioner, the agency, or the provider with two calendar months prior notice. The commissioner may immediately terminate an agreement under subdivision 2d.

Sec. 53.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256I.05, subdivision 1c, is amended to read:

Subd. 1c.

Rate increases.

An agency may not increase the rates negotiated for housing support above those in effect on June 30, 1993, except as provided in paragraphs (a) to (f).

(a) An agency may increase the rates for room and board to the MSA equivalent rate for those settings whose current rate is below the MSA equivalent rate.

(b) An agency may increase the rates for residents in adult foster care whose difficulty of care has increased. The total housing support rate for these residents must not exceed the maximum rate specified in subdivisions 1 and 1a. Agencies must not include nor increase difficulty of care rates for adults in foster care whose difficulty of care is eligible for funding by home and community-based waiver programs under title XIX of the Social Security Act.

(c) The room and board rates will be increased each year when the MSA equivalent rate is adjusted for SSI cost-of-living increases by the amount of the annual SSI increase, less the amount of the increase in the medical assistance personal needs allowance under section 256B.35.

(d) When housing support pays for an individual's room and board, or other costs necessary to provide room and board, the rate payable to the residence must continue for up to 18 calendar days per incident that the person is temporarily absent from the residence, not to exceed 60 days in a calendar year, if the absence or absences have received the prior approval of are reported in advance to the county agency's social service staff. Prior approval Advance reporting is not required for emergency absences due to crisis, illness, or injury.

(e) For facilities meeting substantial change criteria within the prior year. Substantial change criteria exists if the establishment experiences a 25 percent increase or decrease in the total number of its beds, if the net cost of capital additions or improvements is in excess of 15 percent of the current market value of the residence, or if the residence physically moves, or changes its licensure, and incurs a resulting increase in operation and property costs.

(f) Until June 30, 1994, an agency may increase by up to five percent the total rate paid for recipients of assistance under sections 256D.01 to 256D.21 or 256D.33 to 256D.54 who reside in residences that are licensed by the commissioner of health as a boarding care home, but are not certified for the purposes of the medical assistance program. However, an increase under this clause must not exceed an amount equivalent to 65 percent of the 1991 medical assistance reimbursement rate for nursing home resident class A, in the geographic grouping in which the facility is located, as established under Minnesota Rules, parts 9549.0051 to 9549.0058.

Sec. 54.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256I.05, subdivision 1n, is amended to read:

Subd. 1n.

Supplemental rate; Mahnomen County.

Notwithstanding the provisions of this section, for the rate period July 1, 2010, to June 30, 2011, a county agency shall negotiate a supplemental service rate in addition to the rate specified in subdivision 1, not to exceed $753 per month or the existing rate, including any legislative authorized inflationary adjustments, for a group residential housing support provider located in Mahnomen County that operates a 28-bed facility providing 24-hour care to individuals who are homeless, disabled, chemically dependent, mentally ill, or chronically homeless.

Sec. 55.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256I.05, subdivision 8, is amended to read:

Subd. 8.

State participation.

For a resident of a group residence person who is eligible under section 256I.04, subdivision 1, paragraph (b), state participation in the group residential housing support payment is determined according to section 256D.03, subdivision 2. For a resident of a group residence person who is eligible under section 256I.04, subdivision 1, paragraph (a), state participation in the group residential housing support rate is determined according to section 256D.36.

Sec. 56.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256I.06, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Time of payment.

A county agency may make payments in advance for an individual whose stay is expected to last beyond the calendar month for which the payment is made. Housing support payments made by a county agency on behalf of an individual who is not expected to remain in the group residence establishment beyond the month for which payment is made must be made subsequent to the individual's departure from the residence.

Sec. 57.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256I.06, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 10.

Correction of overpayments and underpayments.

The agency shall make an adjustment to housing support payments issued to individuals consistent with requirements of federal law and regulation and state law and rule and shall issue or recover benefits as appropriate. A recipient or former recipient is not responsible for overpayments due to agency error, unless the amount of the overpayment is large enough that a reasonable person would know it is an error.

Sec. 58.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256J.08, subdivision 73a, as amended by Laws 2020, chapter 115, article 4, section 131, is amended to read:

Subd. 73a.

Qualified professional.

(a) For physical illness, injury, or incapacity, a "qualified professional" means a licensed physician, a physician assistant, an advanced practice registered nurse, or a licensed chiropractor. "Qualified professional" means an individual as defined in section 256P.01, subdivision 6a.

(b) For developmental disability and intelligence testing, a "qualified professional" means an individual qualified by training and experience to administer the tests necessary to make determinations, such as tests of intellectual functioning, assessments of adaptive behavior, adaptive skills, and developmental functioning. These professionals include licensed psychologists, certified school psychologists, or certified psychometrists working under the supervision of a licensed psychologist.

(c) For learning disabilities, a "qualified professional" means a licensed psychologist or school psychologist with experience determining learning disabilities.

(d) For mental health, a "qualified professional" means a licensed physician or a qualified mental health professional. A "qualified mental health professional" means:

(1) for children, in psychiatric nursing, a registered nurse or advanced practice registered nurse who is licensed under sections 148.171 to 148.285, and who is certified as a clinical specialist in child and adolescent psychiatric or mental health nursing by a national nurse certification organization or who has a master's degree in nursing or one of the behavioral sciences or related fields from an accredited college or university or its equivalent, with at least 4,000 hours of post-master's supervised experience in the delivery of clinical services in the treatment of mental illness;

(2) for adults, in psychiatric nursing, a registered nurse or advanced practice registered nurse who is licensed under sections 148.171 to 148.285, and who is certified as a clinical specialist in adult psychiatric and mental health nursing by a national nurse certification organization or who has a master's degree in nursing or one of the behavioral sciences or related fields from an accredited college or university or its equivalent, with at least 4,000 hours of post-master's supervised experience in the delivery of clinical services in the treatment of mental illness;

(3) in clinical social work, a person licensed as an independent clinical social worker under chapter 148D, or a person with a master's degree in social work from an accredited college or university, with at least 4,000 hours of post-master's supervised experience in the delivery of clinical services in the treatment of mental illness;

(4) in psychology, an individual licensed by the Board of Psychology under sections 148.88 to 148.98, who has stated to the Board of Psychology competencies in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness;

(5) in psychiatry, a physician licensed under chapter 147 and certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology or eligible for board certification in psychiatry;

(6) in marriage and family therapy, the mental health professional must be a marriage and family therapist licensed under sections 148B.29 to 148B.39, with at least two years of post-master's supervised experience in the delivery of clinical services in the treatment of mental illness; and

(7) in licensed professional clinical counseling, the mental health professional shall be a licensed professional clinical counselor under section 148B.5301 with at least 4,000 hours of post-master's supervised experience in the delivery of clinical services in the treatment of mental illness.

Sec. 59.

[256K.451] MINOR CONSENT TO HOMELESS AND SEXUALLY EXPLOITED YOUTH SERVICES.

A minor living separately from the minor's parent or legal guardian may give consent to receive homeless youth services and services for sexually exploited youth. A minor's consent to receive services does not affect a parent or legal guardian's custody of the minor.

Sec. 60.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256N.02, subdivision 14a, is amended to read:

Subd. 14a.

Licensed child foster parent.

"Licensed child foster parent" means a person an individual or family who is licensed for child foster care under Minnesota Rules, parts 2960.3000 to 2960.3340 chapter 2960, excluding foster residence settings licensed under Minnesota Rules, parts 2960.3200 to 2960.3230, or licensed or approved by a Minnesota tribe in accordance with tribal standards with whom the foster child resides.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 61.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256N.21, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Placement in foster care.

To be eligible for foster care benefits under this section, the child must be in placement away from the child's legal parent, guardian, or Indian custodian as defined in section 260.755, subdivision 10, and must meet one of the criteria in clause (1) and either clause (2) or (3):

(1) the legally responsible agency must have placement authority to place the child with: (i) a voluntary placement agreement or a court order, consistent with sections 260B.198, 260C.001, and 260D.01, or consistent with section 260C.451 for a child 18 years old or older and under age 21 who maintains eligibility for foster care; or (ii) a voluntary placement agreement or court order by a Minnesota tribe that is consistent with United States Code, title 42, section 672(a)(2); and

(2) the child is placed with a licensed child foster parent who resides with the child; or

(3) the child is placed in one of the following unlicensed child foster care settings:

(i) an emergency relative placement under tribal licensing regulations or section 245A.035, with the legally responsible agency ensuring the relative completes the required child foster care application process;

(ii) a licensed adult foster home with an approved age variance under section 245A.16 for no more than six months where the license holder resides with the child;

(iii) for a child 18 years old or older and under age 21 who is eligible for extended foster care under section 260C.451, an unlicensed supervised independent living setting approved by the agency responsible for the child's care; or

(iv) a preadoptive placement in a home specified in section 245A.03, subdivision 2, paragraph (a), clause (9), with an approved adoption home study and signed adoption placement agreement.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 62.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256N.21, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Excluded activities.

The basic and supplemental difficulty of care payment represents costs for activities similar in nature to those expected of parents, and does not cover services rendered by the licensed or tribally approved foster parent, facility, or administrative costs or fees. The financially responsible agency may pay an additional fee for specific services provided by the licensed foster parent or facility. A foster parent or residence setting must distinguish such a service from the daily care of the child as assessed through the process under section 256N.24.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 63.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256N.24, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Extraordinary levels.

(a) The assessment tool established under subdivision 2 must provide a mechanism through which up to five levels can be added to the supplemental difficulty of care for a particular child under section 256N.26, subdivision 4. In establishing the assessment tool, the commissioner must design the tool so that the levels applicable to the portions of the assessment other than the extraordinary levels can accommodate the requirements of this subdivision.

(b) These extraordinary levels are available when all of the following circumstances apply:

(1) the child has extraordinary needs as determined by the assessment tool provided for under subdivision 2, and the child meets other requirements established by the commissioner, such as a minimum score on the assessment tool;

(2) the child's extraordinary needs require extraordinary care and intense supervision that is provided by the child's caregiver as part of the parental duties as described in the supplemental difficulty of care rate, section 256N.02, subdivision 21. This extraordinary care provided by the caregiver is required so that the child can be safely cared for in the home and community, and prevents residential placement;

(3) the child is physically living in a foster family setting, as defined in Minnesota Rules, part 2960.3010, subpart 23, in a foster residence setting, or physically living in the home with the adoptive parent or relative custodian; and

(4) the child is receiving the services for which the child is eligible through medical assistance programs or other programs that provide necessary services for children with disabilities or other medical and behavioral conditions to live with the child's family, but the agency with caregiver's input has identified a specific support gap that cannot be met through home and community support waivers or other programs that are designed to provide support for children with special needs.

(c) The agency completing an assessment, under subdivision 2, that suggests an extraordinary level must document as part of the assessment, the following:

(1) the assessment tool that determined that the child's needs or disabilities require extraordinary care and intense supervision;

(2) a summary of the extraordinary care and intense supervision that is provided by the caregiver as part of the parental duties as described in the supplemental difficulty of care rate, section 256N.02, subdivision 21;

(3) confirmation that the child is currently physically residing in the foster family setting or in the home with the foster parent, adoptive parent, or relative custodian;

(4) the efforts of the agency, caregiver, parents, and others to request support services in the home and community that would ease the degree of parental duties provided by the caregiver for the care and supervision of the child. This would include documentation of the services provided for the child's needs or disabilities, and the services that were denied or not available from the local social service agency, community agency, the local school district, local public health department, the parent, or child's medical insurance provider;

(5) the specific support gap identified that places the child's safety and well-being at risk in the home or community and is necessary to prevent residential placement; and

(6) the extraordinary care and intense supervision provided by the foster, adoptive, or guardianship caregivers to maintain the child safely in the child's home and prevent residential placement that cannot be supported by medical assistance or other programs that provide services, necessary care for children with disabilities, or other medical or behavioral conditions in the home or community.

(d) An agency completing an assessment under subdivision 2 that suggests an extraordinary level is appropriate must forward the assessment and required documentation to the commissioner. If the commissioner approves, the extraordinary levels must be retroactive to the date the assessment was forwarded.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 64.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 256P.01, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 6a.

Qualified professional.

(a) For illness, injury, or incapacity, a "qualified professional" means a licensed physician, physician assistant, advanced practice registered nurse, physical therapist, occupational therapist, or licensed chiropractor, according to their scope of practice.

(b) For developmental disability, learning disability, and intelligence testing, a "qualified professional" means a licensed physician, physician assistant, advanced practice registered nurse, licensed independent clinical social worker, licensed psychologist, certified school psychologist, or certified psychometrist working under the supervision of a licensed psychologist.

(c) For mental health, a "qualified professional" means a licensed physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or qualified mental health professional under section 245.462, subdivision 18, clauses (1) to (6).

(d) For substance use disorder, a "qualified professional" means a licensed physician, a qualified mental health professional under section 245.462, subdivision 18, clauses (1) to (6), or an individual as defined in section 245G.11, subdivision 3, 4, or 5.

Sec. 65.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 257.70, is amended to read:

257.70 HEARINGS AND RECORDS; CONFIDENTIALITY.

(a) Notwithstanding any other law concerning public hearings and records, any hearing or trial held under sections 257.51 to 257.74 shall be held in closed court without admittance of any person other than those necessary to the action or proceeding. All papers and records, other than the final judgment, pertaining to the action or proceeding, whether part of the permanent record of the court or of a file in the state Department of Human Services or elsewhere, are subject to inspection only upon consent of the court and all interested persons, or in exceptional cases only upon an order of the court for good cause shown.

(b) In all actions under this chapter in which public assistance is assigned under section 256.741 or the public authority provides services to a party or parties to the action, notwithstanding statutory or other authorization for the public authority to shall not release private data on the location of a party to the action, information on the location of one a party may not be released by the public authority to the other party to the action or the joint child if:

(1) the public authority has knowledge that one party is currently subject to a protective order with respect to the other party has been entered or the joint child, and the protected party or guardian of the joint child has not authorized disclosure; or

(2) the public authority has reason to believe that the release of the information may result in physical or emotional harm to the other a party or the joint child.

Sec. 66.

[260.7611] COUNTY AND TRIBAL AGREEMENTS; MALTREATMENT ASSESSMENTS AND INVESTIGATIONS OF INDIAN CHILDREN.

A tribe and a county may enter a written agreement transferring responsibility for the screening and initial response to a child maltreatment report regarding an Indian child residing in the county where the child's reservation is located, from the county to the tribe. An agreement under this subdivision shall include a provision clarifying whether the county or the tribe is responsible for ongoing case management stemming from a child maltreatment report.

Sec. 67.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 260C.007, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 16a.

Family and permanency team.

"Family and permanency team" means a team consisting of the child's parent or legal custodian, relatives, foster care providers, and professionals who are resources to the child's family such as teachers, medical or mental health providers who have treated the child, or clergy, as appropriate. In the case of an Indian child, the family and permanency team includes tribal representatives, delegates, and cultural resources as identified by the child's tribe. Consistent with section 260C.212, subdivision 1, paragraph (b), if the child is age 14 or older, the team must also include two team members that the child selects who are not the child's foster parent or caseworker. The responsible social services agency may reject an individual that the child selects if the agency has good cause to believe that the individual would not act in the best interests of the child.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 68.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 260C.007, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 16b.

Family foster home.

"Family foster home" means the home of an individual or family who is licensed for child foster care under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 245A, meeting the standards in Minnesota Rules, chapter 2960, excluding foster residence settings licensed under Minnesota Rules, parts 2960.3000 to 2960.3200, or licensed or approved by a tribe in accordance with tribal standards with whom the foster child resides. Family foster home includes an emergency unlicensed relative placement under section 245A.035.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 69.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 260C.007, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 21a.

Legal authority to place the child.

"Legal authority to place the child" means that the agency has legal responsibility for the care and control of the child while the child is in foster care. The agency may have legal authority to place a child through a court order under this chapter through a voluntary placement agreement between the agency and the child's parent under section 260C.227 or, in the case of an Indian child, through tribal court.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 70.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 260C.007, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 25a.

Permanency plan.

"Permanency plan" means the established goal in the out-of-home placement plan that will achieve a safe, permanent home for the child. There are four permanency goals for children:

(1) reunification with the child's parent or legal guardian;

(2) placement with other relatives;

(3) adoption; or

(4) establishment of a new legal guardianship.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 71.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 260C.007, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 26c.

Qualified individual.

"Qualified individual" means a trained culturally competent professional or licensed clinician, including a mental health professional under section 245.4871, subdivision 27, who is not an employee of the responsible social services agency and who is not connected to or affiliated with any placement setting in which a responsible social services agency has placed children.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 72.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 260C.007, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 26d.

Qualified residential treatment program.

"Qualified residential treatment program" means a children's residential treatment program licensed under chapter 245A or licensed or approved by a tribe that is approved to receive foster care maintenance payments under section 256.82 that:

(1) has a trauma-informed treatment model designed to address the needs of children with serious emotional or behavioral disorders or disturbances;

(2) has registered or licensed nursing staff and other licensed clinical staff who:

(i) provide care within the scope of their practice; and

(ii) are available 24 hours per day and seven days per week;

(3) is accredited by any of the following independent, nonprofit organizations: the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO), and the Council on Accreditation (COA), or any other nonprofit accrediting organization approved by the United States Department of Health and Human Services;

(4) if it is in the child's best interests, facilitates participation of the child's family members in the child's treatment programming consistent with the child's out-of-home placement plan under sections 260C.212, subdivision 1, and 260C.708;

(5) facilitates outreach to family members of the child, including siblings;

(6) documents how the facility facilitates outreach to the child's parents and relatives, as well as documents the child's parents' and other relatives' contact information;

(7) documents how the facility includes family members in the child's treatment process, including after the child's discharge, and how the facility maintains the child's sibling connections; and

(8) provides the child and child's family with discharge planning and family-based aftercare support for at least six months after the child's discharge.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 73.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 260C.007, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 27b.

Residential treatment facility.

"Residential treatment facility" means a 24-hour-a-day program that provides treatment for children with emotional disturbance, consistent with section 245.4871, subdivision 32, and includes a licensed residential program specializing in caring 24 hours a day for children with a developmental delay or related condition. A residential treatment facility does not include a psychiatric residential treatment facility under section 256B.0941 or a family foster home as defined in section 260C.007, subdivision 16b.

Sec. 74.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 260C.157, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Juvenile treatment screening team.

(a) The responsible social services agency shall establish a juvenile treatment screening team to conduct screenings and prepare case plans under this chapter, chapter 260D, and section 245.487, subdivision 3., for a child to receive treatment for an emotional disturbance, a developmental disability, or related condition in a residential treatment facility licensed by the commissioner of human services under chapter 245A, or licensed or approved by a tribe. A screening team is not required for a child to be in: (1) a residential facility specializing in prenatal, postpartum, or parenting support; (2) a facility specializing in high-quality residential care and supportive services to children and youth who are sex-trafficking victims or are at risk of becoming sex-trafficking victims; (3) supervised settings for youth 18 years old or older living independently; or (4) a licensed residential family-based treatment facility for substance abuse consistent with section 260C.190. Screenings are also not required when a child must be placed in a facility due to an emotional crisis or other mental health emergency.

(b) The responsible social services agency shall conduct screenings shall be conducted within 15 days of a request for a screening, unless the screening is for the purpose of placement in mental health residential treatment and the child is enrolled in a prepaid health program under section 256B.69, in which case the agency shall conduct the screening shall be conducted within ten working days of a request. The responsible social services agency shall convene the team, which may be the team constituted under section 245.4885 or 256B.092 or Minnesota Rules, parts 9530.6600 to 9530.6655,. The team shall consist of social workers, juvenile justice professionals,; persons with expertise in the treatment of juveniles who are emotionally disabled, chemically dependent, or have a developmental disability,; and the child's parent, guardian, or permanent legal custodian under Minnesota Statutes 2010, section 260C.201, subdivision 11, or section 260C.515, subdivision 4. The team may be the same team as defined in section 260B.157, subdivision 3. The team may include the child's relatives as defined in section 260C.007, subdivisions 26b and 27, the child's foster care provider, and professionals who are a resource to the child's family such as teachers, medical or mental health providers, and clergy, as appropriate, consistent with the family and permanency team as defined in section 260C.007, subdivision 16a. Prior to forming the team, the responsible social services agency must consult with the child if the child is age 14 or older, the child's parents, and, if applicable, the child's tribe to ensure that the team is family-centered and will act in the child's best interest. If the child, child's parents, or legal guardians raise concerns about specific relatives or professionals, the team should not include those individuals. This provision does not apply to paragraph (c).

(b) The social services agency shall determine whether a child brought to its attention for the purposes described in this section is an Indian child, as defined in section 260C.007, subdivision 21, and shall determine the identity of the Indian child's tribe, as defined in section 260.755, subdivision 9. When a child to be evaluated (c) If the agency provides notice to tribes under section 260.761, and the child screened is an Indian child, the team provided in paragraph (a) shall include responsible social services agency must make a rigorous and concerted effort to include a designated representative of the Indian child's tribe on the juvenile treatment screening team, unless the child's tribal authority declines to appoint a representative. The Indian child's tribe may delegate its authority to represent the child to any other federally recognized Indian tribe, as defined in section 260.755, subdivision 12. The provisions of the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978, United States Code, title 25, sections 1901 to 1963, and the Minnesota Indian Family Preservation Act, sections 260.751 to 260.835, apply to this section.

(c) (d) If the court, prior to, or as part of, a final disposition or other court order, proposes to place a child: with an emotional disturbance or developmental disability or related condition in residential treatment, the responsible social services agency must conduct a screening. If the team recommends treating the child in a qualified residential treatment program, the agency must follow the requirements of sections 260C.70 to 260C.714.

(1) for the primary purpose of treatment for an emotional disturbance, a developmental disability, or chemical dependency in a residential treatment facility out of state or in one which is within the state and licensed by the commissioner of human services under chapter 245A; or

(2) in any out-of-home setting potentially exceeding 30 days in duration, including a postdispositional placement in a facility licensed by the commissioner of corrections or human services, The court shall ascertain whether the child is an Indian child and shall notify the county welfare agency responsible social services agency and, if the child is an Indian child, shall notify the Indian child's tribe. The county's juvenile treatment screening team must either: (i) screen and evaluate the child and file its recommendations with the court within 14 days of receipt of the notice; or (ii) elect not to screen a given case and notify the court of that decision within three working days as paragraph (c) requires.

(d) The child may not be placed for the primary purpose of treatment for an emotional disturbance, a developmental disability, or chemical dependency, in a residential treatment facility out of state nor in a residential treatment facility within the state that is licensed under chapter 245A, unless one of the following conditions applies:

(1) a treatment professional certifies that an emergency requires the placement of the child in a facility within the state;

(2) the screening team has evaluated the child and recommended that a residential placement is necessary to meet the child's treatment needs and the safety needs of the community, that it is a cost-effective means of meeting the treatment needs, and that it will be of therapeutic value to the child; or

(3) the court, having reviewed a screening team recommendation against placement, determines to the contrary that a residential placement is necessary. The court shall state the reasons for its determination in writing, on the record, and shall respond specifically to the findings and recommendation of the screening team in explaining why the recommendation was rejected. The attorney representing the child and the prosecuting attorney shall be afforded an opportunity to be heard on the matter.

(e) When the county's juvenile treatment screening team has elected to screen and evaluate a child determined to be an Indian child, the team shall provide notice to the tribe or tribes that accept jurisdiction for the Indian child or that recognize the child as a member of the tribe or as a person eligible for membership in the tribe, and permit the tribe's representative to participate in the screening team.

(e) When the responsible social services agency is responsible for placing and caring for the child and the screening team recommends placing a child in a qualified residential treatment program as defined in section 260C.007, subdivision 26d, the agency must: (1) begin the assessment and processes required in section 260C.704 without delay; and (2) conduct a relative search according to section 260C.221 to assemble the child's family and permanency team under section 260C.706. Prior to notifying relatives regarding the family and permanency team, the responsible social services agency must consult with the child if the child is age 14 or older, the child's parents and, if applicable, the child's tribe to ensure that the agency is providing notice to individuals who will act in the child's best interest. The child and the child's parents may identify a culturally competent qualified individual to complete the child's assessment. The agency shall make efforts to refer the assessment to the identified qualified individual. The assessment may not be delayed for the purpose of having the assessment completed by a specific qualified individual.

(f) When a screening team determines that a child does not need treatment in a qualified residential treatment program, the screening team must:

(1) document the services and supports that will prevent the child's foster care placement and will support the child remaining at home;

(2) document the services and supports that the agency will arrange to place the child in a family foster home; or

(3) document the services and supports that the agency has provided in any other setting.

(f) (g) When the Indian child's tribe or tribal health care services provider or Indian Health Services provider proposes to place a child for the primary purpose of treatment for an emotional disturbance, a developmental disability, or co-occurring emotional disturbance and chemical dependency, the Indian child's tribe or the tribe delegated by the child's tribe shall submit necessary documentation to the county juvenile treatment screening team, which must invite the Indian child's tribe to designate a representative to the screening team.

(h) The responsible social services agency must conduct and document the screening in a format approved by the commissioner of human services.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 75.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 260C.202, is amended to read:

260C.202 COURT REVIEW OF FOSTER CARE.

(a) If the court orders a child placed in foster care, the court shall review the out-of-home placement plan and the child's placement at least every 90 days as required in juvenile court rules to determine whether continued out-of-home placement is necessary and appropriate or whether the child should be returned home. This review is not required if the court has returned the child home, ordered the child permanently placed away from the parent under sections 260C.503 to 260C.521, or terminated rights under section 260C.301. Court review for a child permanently placed away from a parent, including where the child is under guardianship of the commissioner, shall be governed by section 260C.607. When a child is placed in a qualified residential treatment program setting as defined in section 260C.007, subdivision 26d, the responsible social services agency must submit evidence to the court as specified in section 260C.712.

(b) No later than three months after the child's placement in foster care, the court shall review agency efforts pursuant to section 260C.221, and order that the efforts continue if the agency has failed to perform the duties under that section. The court must order the agency to continue to appropriately engage relatives who responded to the notice under section 260C.221 in placement and case planning decisions and to engage other relatives who came to the agency's attention after notice under section 260C.221 was sent.

(c) The court shall review the out-of-home placement plan and may modify the plan as provided under section 260C.201, subdivisions 6 and 7.

(d) When the court orders transfer of custody to a responsible social services agency resulting in foster care or protective supervision with a noncustodial parent under subdivision 1, the court shall notify the parents of the provisions of sections 260C.204 and 260C.503 to 260C.521, as required under juvenile court rules.

(e) When a child remains in or returns to foster care pursuant to section 260C.451 and the court has jurisdiction pursuant to section 260C.193, subdivision 6, paragraph (c), the court shall at least annually conduct the review required under section 260C.203.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 76.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 260C.204, is amended to read:

260C.204 PERMANENCY PROGRESS REVIEW FOR CHILDREN IN FOSTER CARE FOR SIX MONTHS.

(a) When a child continues in placement out of the home of the parent or guardian from whom the child was removed, no later than six months after the child's placement the court shall conduct a permanency progress hearing to review:

(1) the progress of the case, the parent's progress on the case plan or out-of-home placement plan, whichever is applicable;

(2) the agency's reasonable, or in the case of an Indian child, active efforts for reunification and its provision of services;

(3) the agency's reasonable efforts to finalize the permanent plan for the child under section 260.012, paragraph (e), and to make a placement as required under section 260C.212, subdivision 2, in a home that will commit to being the legally permanent family for the child in the event the child cannot return home according to the timelines in this section; and

(4) in the case of an Indian child, active efforts to prevent the breakup of the Indian family and to make a placement according to the placement preferences under United States Code, title 25, chapter 21, section 1915.

(b) When a child is placed in a qualified residential treatment program setting as defined in section 260C.007, subdivision 26d, the responsible social services agency must submit evidence to the court as specified in section 260C.712.

(b) (c) The court shall ensure that notice of the hearing is sent to any relative who:

(1) responded to the agency's notice provided under section 260C.221, indicating an interest in participating in planning for the child or being a permanency resource for the child and who has kept the court apprised of the relative's address; or

(2) asked to be notified of court proceedings regarding the child as is permitted in section 260C.152, subdivision 5.

(c)(1) (d)(1) If the parent or guardian has maintained contact with the child and is complying with the court-ordered out-of-home placement plan, and if the child would benefit from reunification with the parent, the court may either:

(i) return the child home, if the conditions which led to the out-of-home placement have been sufficiently mitigated that it is safe and in the child's best interests to return home; or

(ii) continue the matter up to a total of six additional months. If the child has not returned home by the end of the additional six months, the court must conduct a hearing according to sections 260C.503 to 260C.521.

(2) If the court determines that the parent or guardian is not complying with the out-of-home placement plan or is not maintaining regular contact with the child as outlined in the visitation plan required as part of the out-of-home placement plan under section 260C.212, the court may order the responsible social services agency:

(i) to develop a plan for legally permanent placement of the child away from the parent;

(ii) to consider, identify, recruit, and support one or more permanency resources from the child's relatives and foster parent to be the legally permanent home in the event the child cannot be returned to the parent. Any relative or the child's foster parent may ask the court to order the agency to consider them for permanent placement of the child in the event the child cannot be returned to the parent. A relative or foster parent who wants to be considered under this item shall cooperate with the background study required under section 245C.08, if the individual has not already done so, and with the home study process required under chapter 245A for providing child foster care and for adoption under section 259.41. The home study referred to in this item shall be a single-home study in the form required by the commissioner of human services or similar study required by the individual's state of residence when the subject of the study is not a resident of Minnesota. The court may order the responsible social services agency to make a referral under the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children when necessary to obtain a home study for an individual who wants to be considered for transfer of permanent legal and physical custody or adoption of the child; and

(iii) to file a petition to support an order for the legally permanent placement plan.

(d) (e) Following the review under this section:

(1) if the court has either returned the child home or continued the matter up to a total of six additional months, the agency shall continue to provide services to support the child's return home or to make reasonable efforts to achieve reunification of the child and the parent as ordered by the court under an approved case plan;

(2) if the court orders the agency to develop a plan for the transfer of permanent legal and physical custody of the child to a relative, a petition supporting the plan shall be filed in juvenile court within 30 days of the hearing required under this section and a trial on the petition held within 60 days of the filing of the pleadings; or

(3) if the court orders the agency to file a termination of parental rights, unless the county attorney can show cause why a termination of parental rights petition should not be filed, a petition for termination of parental rights shall be filed in juvenile court within 30 days of the hearing required under this section and a trial on the petition held within 60 days of the filing of the petition.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 77.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 260C.212, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Out-of-home placement; plan.

(a) An out-of-home placement plan shall be prepared within 30 days after any child is placed in foster care by court order or a voluntary placement agreement between the responsible social services agency and the child's parent pursuant to section 260C.227 or chapter 260D.

(b) An out-of-home placement plan means a written document which is prepared by the responsible social services agency jointly with the parent or parents or guardian of the child and in consultation with the child's guardian ad litem, the child's tribe, if the child is an Indian child, the child's foster parent or representative of the foster care facility, and, where appropriate, the child. When a child is age 14 or older, the child may include two other individuals on the team preparing the child's out-of-home placement plan. The child may select one member of the case planning team to be designated as the child's advisor and to advocate with respect to the application of the reasonable and prudent parenting standards. The responsible social services agency may reject an individual selected by the child if the agency has good cause to believe that the individual would not act in the best interest of the child. For a child in voluntary foster care for treatment under chapter 260D, preparation of the out-of-home placement plan shall additionally include the child's mental health treatment provider. For a child 18 years of age or older, the responsible social services agency shall involve the child and the child's parents as appropriate. As appropriate, the plan shall be:

(1) submitted to the court for approval under section 260C.178, subdivision 7;

(2) ordered by the court, either as presented or modified after hearing, under section 260C.178, subdivision 7, or 260C.201, subdivision 6; and

(3) signed by the parent or parents or guardian of the child, the child's guardian ad litem, a representative of the child's tribe, the responsible social services agency, and, if possible, the child.

(c) The out-of-home placement plan shall be explained to all persons involved in its implementation, including the child who has signed the plan, and shall set forth:

(1) a description of the foster care home or facility selected, including how the out-of-home placement plan is designed to achieve a safe placement for the child in the least restrictive, most family-like, setting available which is in close proximity to the home of the parent or parents or guardian of the child when the case plan goal is reunification, and how the placement is consistent with the best interests and special needs of the child according to the factors under subdivision 2, paragraph (b);

(2) the specific reasons for the placement of the child in foster care, and when reunification is the plan, a description of the problems or conditions in the home of the parent or parents which necessitated removal of the child from home and the changes the parent or parents must make for the child to safely return home;

(3) a description of the services offered and provided to prevent removal of the child from the home and to reunify the family including:

(i) the specific actions to be taken by the parent or parents of the child to eliminate or correct the problems or conditions identified in clause (2), and the time period during which the actions are to be taken; and

(ii) the reasonable efforts, or in the case of an Indian child, active efforts to be made to achieve a safe and stable home for the child including social and other supportive services to be provided or offered to the parent or parents or guardian of the child, the child, and the residential facility during the period the child is in the residential facility;

(4) a description of any services or resources that were requested by the child or the child's parent, guardian, foster parent, or custodian since the date of the child's placement in the residential facility, and whether those services or resources were provided and if not, the basis for the denial of the services or resources;

(5) the visitation plan for the parent or parents or guardian, other relatives as defined in section 260C.007, subdivision 26b or 27, and siblings of the child if the siblings are not placed together in foster care, and whether visitation is consistent with the best interest of the child, during the period the child is in foster care;

(6) when a child cannot return to or be in the care of either parent, documentation of steps to finalize adoption as the permanency plan for the child through reasonable efforts to place the child for adoption. At a minimum, the documentation must include consideration of whether adoption is in the best interests of the child, child-specific recruitment efforts such as relative search and the use of state, regional, and national adoption exchanges to facilitate orderly and timely placements in and outside of the state. A copy of this documentation shall be provided to the court in the review required under section 260C.317, subdivision 3, paragraph (b);

(7) when a child cannot return to or be in the care of either parent, documentation of steps to finalize the transfer of permanent legal and physical custody to a relative as the permanency plan for the child. This documentation must support the requirements of the kinship placement agreement under section 256N.22 and must include the reasonable efforts used to determine that it is not appropriate for the child to return home or be adopted, and reasons why permanent placement with a relative through a Northstar kinship assistance arrangement is in the child's best interest; how the child meets the eligibility requirements for Northstar kinship assistance payments; agency efforts to discuss adoption with the child's relative foster parent and reasons why the relative foster parent chose not to pursue adoption, if applicable; and agency efforts to discuss with the child's parent or parents the permanent transfer of permanent legal and physical custody or the reasons why these efforts were not made;

(8) efforts to ensure the child's educational stability while in foster care for a child who attained the minimum age for compulsory school attendance under state law and is enrolled full time in elementary or secondary school, or instructed in elementary or secondary education at home, or instructed in an independent study elementary or secondary program, or incapable of attending school on a full-time basis due to a medical condition that is documented and supported by regularly updated information in the child's case plan. Educational stability efforts include:

(i) efforts to ensure that the child remains in the same school in which the child was enrolled prior to placement or upon the child's move from one placement to another, including efforts to work with the local education authorities to ensure the child's educational stability and attendance; or

(ii) if it is not in the child's best interest to remain in the same school that the child was enrolled in prior to placement or move from one placement to another, efforts to ensure immediate and appropriate enrollment for the child in a new school;

(9) the educational records of the child including the most recent information available regarding:

(i) the names and addresses of the child's educational providers;

(ii) the child's grade level performance;

(iii) the child's school record;

(iv) a statement about how the child's placement in foster care takes into account proximity to the school in which the child is enrolled at the time of placement; and

(v) any other relevant educational information;

(10) the efforts by the responsible social services agency to ensure the oversight and continuity of health care services for the foster child, including:

(i) the plan to schedule the child's initial health screens;

(ii) how the child's known medical problems and identified needs from the screens, including any known communicable diseases, as defined in section 144.4172, subdivision 2, shall be monitored and treated while the child is in foster care;

(iii) how the child's medical information shall be updated and shared, including the child's immunizations;

(iv) who is responsible to coordinate and respond to the child's health care needs, including the role of the parent, the agency, and the foster parent;

(v) who is responsible for oversight of the child's prescription medications;

(vi) how physicians or other appropriate medical and nonmedical professionals shall be consulted and involved in assessing the health and well-being of the child and determine the appropriate medical treatment for the child; and

(vii) the responsibility to ensure that the child has access to medical care through either medical insurance or medical assistance;

(11) the health records of the child including information available regarding:

(i) the names and addresses of the child's health care and dental care providers;

(ii) a record of the child's immunizations;

(iii) the child's known medical problems, including any known communicable diseases as defined in section 144.4172, subdivision 2;

(iv) the child's medications; and

(v) any other relevant health care information such as the child's eligibility for medical insurance or medical assistance;

(12) an independent living plan for a child 14 years of age or older, developed in consultation with the child. The child may select one member of the case planning team to be designated as the child's advisor and to advocate with respect to the application of the reasonable and prudent parenting standards in subdivision 14. The plan should include, but not be limited to, the following objectives:

(i) educational, vocational, or employment planning;

(ii) health care planning and medical coverage;

(iii) transportation including, where appropriate, assisting the child in obtaining a driver's license;

(iv) money management, including the responsibility of the responsible social services agency to ensure that the child annually receives, at no cost to the child, a consumer report as defined under section 13C.001 and assistance in interpreting and resolving any inaccuracies in the report;

(v) planning for housing;

(vi) social and recreational skills;

(vii) establishing and maintaining connections with the child's family and community; and

(viii) regular opportunities to engage in age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate activities typical for the child's age group, taking into consideration the capacities of the individual child;

(13) for a child in voluntary foster care for treatment under chapter 260D, diagnostic and assessment information, specific services relating to meeting the mental health care needs of the child, and treatment outcomes; and

(14) for a child 14 years of age or older, a signed acknowledgment that describes the child's rights regarding education, health care, visitation, safety and protection from exploitation, and court participation; receipt of the documents identified in section 260C.452; and receipt of an annual credit report. The acknowledgment shall state that the rights were explained in an age-appropriate manner to the child.; and

(15) for a child placed in a qualified residential treatment program, the plan must include the requirements in section 260C.708.

(d) The parent or parents or guardian and the child each shall have the right to legal counsel in the preparation of the case plan and shall be informed of the right at the time of placement of the child. The child shall also have the right to a guardian ad litem. If unable to employ counsel from their own resources, the court shall appoint counsel upon the request of the parent or parents or the child or the child's legal guardian. The parent or parents may also receive assistance from any person or social services agency in preparation of the case plan.

After the plan has been agreed upon by the parties involved or approved or ordered by the court, the foster parents shall be fully informed of the provisions of the case plan and shall be provided a copy of the plan.

Upon discharge from foster care, the parent, adoptive parent, or permanent legal and physical custodian, as appropriate, and the child, if appropriate, must be provided with a current copy of the child's health and education record.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 78.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 260C.212, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 1a.

Out-of-home placement plan update.

(a) Within 30 days of placing the child in foster care, the agency must file the initial out-of-home placement plan with the court. After filing the initial out-of-home placement plan, the agency shall update and file the out-of-home placement plan with the court as follows:

(1) when the agency moves a child to a different foster care setting, the agency shall inform the court within 30 days of the placement change or court-ordered trial home visit. The agency must file the updated out-of-home placement plan with the court at the next required review hearing;

(2) when the agency places a child in a qualified residential treatment program as defined in section 260C.007, subdivision 26d, or moves a child from one qualified residential treatment program to a different qualified residential treatment program, the agency must update the out-of-home placement plan within 60 days. To meet the requirements of section 260C.708, the agency must file the out-of-home placement plan with the court as part of the 60-day hearing and must update the plan after the court hearing to document the court's approval or disapproval of the child's placement in a qualified residential treatment program;

(3) when the agency places a child with the child's parent in a licensed residential family-based substance use disorder treatment program under section 260C.190, the agency must identify the treatment program in the child's out-of-home placement plan prior to the child's placement. The agency must file the out-of-home placement plan with the court at the next required review hearing; and

(4) under sections 260C.227 and 260C.521, the agency must update the out-of-home placement plan and file the plan with the court.

(b) When none of the items in paragraph (a) apply, the agency must update the out-of-home placement plan no later than 180 days after the child's initial placement and every six months thereafter, consistent with section 260C.203, paragraph (a).

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 79.

Minnesota Statutes 2019 Supplement, section 260C.212, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Placement decisions based on best interests of the child.

(a) The policy of the state of Minnesota is to ensure that the child's best interests are met by requiring an individualized determination of the needs of the child and of how the selected placement will serve the needs of the child being placed. The authorized child-placing agency shall place a child, released by court order or by voluntary release by the parent or parents, in a family foster home selected by considering placement with relatives and important friends in the following order:

(1) with an individual who is related to the child by blood, marriage, or adoption; or

(2) with an individual who is an important friend with whom the child has resided or had significant contact.

For an Indian child, the agency shall follow the order of placement preferences in the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978, United States Code, title 25, section 1915.

(b) Among the factors the agency shall consider in determining the needs of the child are the following:

(1) the child's current functioning and behaviors;

(2) the medical needs of the child;

(3) the educational needs of the child;

(4) the developmental needs of the child;

(5) the child's history and past experience;

(6) the child's religious and cultural needs;

(7) the child's connection with a community, school, and faith community;

(8) the child's interests and talents;

(9) the child's relationship to current caretakers, parents, siblings, and relatives;

(10) the reasonable preference of the child, if the court, or the child-placing agency in the case of a voluntary placement, deems the child to be of sufficient age to express preferences; and

(11) for an Indian child, the best interests of an Indian child as defined in section 260.755, subdivision 2a.

(c) Placement of a child cannot be delayed or denied based on race, color, or national origin of the foster parent or the child.

(d) Siblings should be placed together for foster care and adoption at the earliest possible time unless it is documented that a joint placement would be contrary to the safety or well-being of any of the siblings or unless it is not possible after reasonable efforts by the responsible social services agency. In cases where siblings cannot be placed together, the agency is required to provide frequent visitation or other ongoing interaction between siblings unless the agency documents that the interaction would be contrary to the safety or well-being of any of the siblings.

(e) Except for emergency placement as provided for in section 245A.035, the following requirements must be satisfied before the approval of a foster or adoptive placement in a related or unrelated home: (1) a completed background study under section 245C.08; and (2) a completed review of the written home study required under section 260C.215, subdivision 4, clause (5), or 260C.611, to assess the capacity of the prospective foster or adoptive parent to ensure the placement will meet the needs of the individual child.

(f) The agency must determine whether colocation with a parent who is receiving services in a licensed residential family-based substance use disorder treatment program is in the child's best interests according to paragraph (b) and include that determination in the child's case plan under subdivision 1. The agency may consider additional factors not identified in paragraph (b). The agency's determination must be documented in the child's case plan before the child is colocated with a parent.

(g) The agency must establish a juvenile treatment screening team under section 260C.157 to determine whether it is necessary and appropriate to recommend placing a child in a qualified residential treatment program, as defined in section 260C.007, subdivision 26d.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 80.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 260C.212, subdivision 4a, is amended to read:

Subd. 4a.

Monthly caseworker visits.

(a) Every child in foster care or on a trial home visit shall be visited by the child's caseworker or another person who has responsibility for visitation of the child on a monthly basis, with the majority of visits occurring in the child's residence. The responsible social services agency may designate another person responsible for monthly case visits. For the purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:

(1) "visit" is defined as a face-to-face contact between a child and the child's caseworker;

(2) "visited on a monthly basis" is defined as at least one visit per calendar month;

(3) "the child's caseworker" is defined as the person who has responsibility for managing the child's foster care placement case as assigned by the responsible social service services agency; and

(4) "another person" means the professional staff whom the responsible social services agency has assigned in the out-of-home placement plan or case plan. Another person must be professionally trained to assess the child's safety, permanency, well-being, and case progress. The agency may not designate the guardian ad litem, the child foster care provider, residential facility staff, or a qualified individual as defined in section 260C.007, subdivision 26b, as another person; and

(4) (5) "the child's residence" is defined as the home where the child is residing, and can include the foster home, child care institution, or the home from which the child was removed if the child is on a trial home visit.

(b) Caseworker visits shall be of sufficient substance and duration to address issues pertinent to case planning and service delivery to ensure the safety, permanency, and well-being of the child, including whether the child is enrolled and attending school as required by law.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 81.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 260C.227, is amended to read:

260C.227 VOLUNTARY FOSTER CARE; REQUIRED COURT REVIEW.

(a) When the responsible social services agency and the child's parent or guardian agree that the child's safety, health, and best interests require that the child be in foster care, the agency and the parent or guardian may enter into a voluntary agreement for the placement of the child in foster care. The voluntary agreement must be in writing and in a form approved by the commissioner.

(b) When the child has been placed in foster care pursuant to a voluntary foster care agreement between the agency and the parent, under this section and the child is not returned home within 90 days after initial placement in foster care, the agency responsible for the child's placement in foster care shall:

(1) return the child to the home of the parent or parents; or

(2) file a petition according to section 260C.141, subdivision 1 or 2, which may:

(i) ask the court to review the child's placement in foster care and approve it as continued voluntary foster care for up to an additional 90 days;

(ii) ask the court to order continued foster care according to sections 260C.178 and 260C.201; or

(iii) ask the court to terminate parental rights under section 260C.301.

(3) The out-of-home placement plan must be updated and filed along with the petition.

(c) If the court approves continuing the child in foster care for up to 90 more days on a voluntary basis, at the end of the court-approved 90-day period, the child must be returned to the parent's home. If the child is not returned home, the responsible social services agency must proceed on the petition filed alleging the child in need of protection or services or the petition for termination of parental rights or other permanent placement of the child away from the parent. The court must find a statutory basis to order the placement of the child under section 260C.178; 260C.201; 260C.503 to 260C.521; or 260C.317.

(d) If the child is placed in a qualified residential treatment program, the placement must follow the requirements of sections 260C.70 to 260C.714.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 82.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 260C.4412, is amended to read:

260C.4412 PAYMENT FOR RESIDENTIAL PLACEMENTS.

(a) When a child is placed in a foster care group residential setting under Minnesota Rules, parts 2960.0020 to 2960.0710, a foster residence licensed under chapter 245A that meets the standards of Minnesota Rules, parts 2960.3200 to 2960.3230, or a children's residential facility licensed or approved by a tribe, foster care maintenance payments must be made on behalf of the child to cover the cost of providing food, clothing, shelter, daily supervision, school supplies, child's personal incidentals and supports, reasonable travel for visitation, or other transportation needs associated with the items listed. Daily supervision in the group residential setting includes routine day-to-day direction and arrangements to ensure the well-being and safety of the child. It may also include reasonable costs of administration and operation of the facility.

(b) The commissioner of human services shall specify the title IV-E administrative procedures under section 256.82 for each of the following residential program settings:

(1) residential programs licensed under chapter 245A or licensed by a tribe, including:

(i) qualified residential treatment programs as defined in section 260C.007, subdivision 26d;

(ii) program settings specializing in providing prenatal, postpartum, or parenting supports for youth; and

(iii) program settings providing high-quality residential care and supportive services to children and youth who are, or are at risk of becoming, sex trafficking victims;

(2) licensed residential family-based substance use disorder treatment programs as defined in section 260C.007, subdivision 22a; and

(3) supervised settings in which a foster child age 18 or older may live independently, consistent with section 260C.451.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 83.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 260C.503, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 4.

Qualified residential treatment program; permanency hearing requirements.

When a child is placed in a qualified residential treatment program as defined in section 260C.007, subdivision 26d, the responsible social services agency must submit evidence to the court as specified in section 260C.712.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 84.

[260C.70] CITATION.

Sections 260C.70 to 260C.714 may be cited as "Placements in Qualified Residential Treatment Programs." Sections 260C.70 to 260C.714 implement the requirements of the Family First Prevention Services Act of 2018, Public Law 115-123, and apply to children for whom the juvenile treatment screening team under section 260C.157, subdivision 3, recommends placement in a qualified residential treatment program.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 85.

[260C.702] REQUIREMENTS FOR PLACEMENTS IN QUALIFIED RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT PROGRAMS.

For the responsible social services agency to place a child in a qualified residential treatment program, there must be:

(1) an assessment by a qualified individual of whether it is necessary and appropriate to place the child at a qualified residential treatment program under section 260C.704;

(2) a family and permanency team under section 260C.706;

(3) an out-of-home placement plan under section 260C.708;

(4) court approval of a child's placement in a qualified residential treatment program under section 260C.71;

(5) ongoing reviews and permanency hearings under section 260C.712; and

(6) a court review of any extended placement of the child in a qualified residential treatment program under section 260C.714.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 86.

[260C.704] REQUIREMENTS FOR THE QUALIFIED INDIVIDUAL'S ASSESSMENT OF THE CHILD FOR PLACEMENT IN A QUALIFIED RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT PROGRAM.

(a) A qualified individual must complete an assessment of the child prior to or within 30 days of the child's placement in a qualified residential treatment program in a format approved by the commissioner of human services, and must:

(1) assess the child's needs and strengths, using an age-appropriate, evidence-based, validated, functional assessment approved by the commissioner of human services;

(2) determine whether the child's needs can be met by the child's family members or through placement in a family foster home; or, if not, determine which residential setting would provide the child with the most effective and appropriate level of care to the child in the least restrictive environment;

(3) develop a list of short- and long-term mental and behavioral health goals for the child; and

(4) work with the child's family and permanency team using culturally competent practices.

(b) The child and the child's parents, when appropriate, may request that a specific culturally competent qualified individual complete the child's assessment. The agency shall make efforts to refer the child to the identified qualified individual to complete the assessment. The assessment must not be delayed for a specific qualified individual to complete the assessment.

(c) The qualified individual must provide the assessment, when complete, to the responsible social services agency, the child's parents or legal guardians, the guardian ad litem, and the court as required in section 260C.71. If court rules and chapter 13 permit disclosure of the results of the child's assessment, the agency may share the results of the child's assessment with the child's foster care provider, other members of the child's family, and the family and permanency team. The agency must not share the child's private medical data with the family and permanency team unless: (1) chapter 13 permits the agency to disclose the child's private medical data to the family and permanency team; or (2) the child's parent has authorized the agency to disclose the child's private medical data to the family and permanency team.

(d) For an Indian child, the assessment of the child must follow the order of placement preferences in the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978, United States Code, title 25, section 1915.

(e) In the assessment determination, the qualified individual must specify in writing:

(1) the reasons why the child's needs cannot be met by the child's family or in a family foster home. A shortage of family foster homes is not an acceptable reason for determining that a family foster home cannot meet a child's needs;

(2) why the recommended placement in a qualified residential treatment program will provide the child with the most effective and appropriate level of care to meet the child's needs in the least restrictive environment possible and how placing the child at the treatment program is consistent with the short-term and long-term goals of the child's permanency plan; and

(3) if the qualified individual's placement recommendation is not the placement setting that the parent, family and permanency team, child, or tribe prefer, the qualified individual must identify the reasons why the qualified individual does not recommend the parent's, family and permanency team's, child's, or tribe's placement preferences. The out-of-home placement plan under section 260C.708 must also include reasons why the qualified individual did not recommend the preferences of the parents, family and permanency team, child, or tribe.

(f) If the qualified individual determines that the child's family or a family foster home or other less restrictive placement may meet the child's needs, the agency must move the child out of the qualified residential treatment program and transition the child to a less restrictive setting within 30 days of the determination.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 87.

[260C.706] FAMILY AND PERMANENCY TEAM REQUIREMENTS.

(a) When the responsible social services agency's juvenile treatment screening team, as defined in section 260C.157, recommends placing the child in a qualified residential treatment program, the agency must assemble a family and permanency team within ten days.

(1) The team must include all appropriate biological family members, the child's parents, legal guardians or custodians, foster care providers, and relatives as defined in section 260C.007, subdivisions 26c and 27, and professionals, as appropriate, who are a resource to the child's family, such as teachers, medical or mental health providers, or clergy.

(2) When a child is placed in foster care prior to the qualified residential treatment program, the agency shall include relatives responding to the relative search notice as required under section 260C.221 on this team, unless the juvenile court finds that contacting a specific relative would endanger the parent, guardian, child, sibling, or any other family member.

(3) When a qualified residential treatment program is the child's initial placement setting, the responsible social services agency must engage with the child and the child's parents to determine the appropriate family and permanency team members.

(4) When the permanency goal is to reunify the child with the child's parent or legal guardian, the purpose of the relative search and focus of the family and permanency team is to preserve family relationships and identify and develop supports for the child and parents.

(5) The responsible agency must make a good faith effort to identify and assemble all appropriate individuals to be part of the child's family and permanency team and request input from the parents regarding relative search efforts consistent with section 260C.221. The out-of-home placement plan in section 260C.708 must include all contact information for the team members, as well as contact information for family members or relatives who are not a part of the family and permanency team.

(6) If the child is age 14 or older, the team must include members of the family and permanency team that the child selects in accordance with section 260C.212, subdivision 1, paragraph (b).

(7) Consistent with section 260C.221, a responsible social services agency may disclose relevant and appropriate private data about the child to relatives in order for the relatives to participate in caring and planning for the child's placement.

(8) If the child is an Indian child under section 260.751, the responsible social services agency must make active efforts to include the child's tribal representative on the family and permanency team.

(b) The family and permanency team shall meet regarding the assessment required under section 260C.704 to determine whether it is necessary and appropriate to place the child in a qualified residential treatment program and to participate in case planning under section 260C.708.

(c) When reunification of the child with the child's parent or legal guardian is the permanency plan, the family and permanency team shall support the parent-child relationship by recognizing the parent's legal authority, consulting with the parent regarding ongoing planning for the child, and assisting the parent with visiting and contacting the child.

(d) When the agency's permanency plan is to transfer the child's permanent legal and physical custody to a relative or for the child's adoption, the team shall:

(1) coordinate with the proposed guardian to provide the child with educational services, medical care, and dental care;

(2) coordinate with the proposed guardian, the agency, and the foster care facility to meet the child's treatment needs after the child is placed in a permanent placement with the proposed guardian;

(3) plan to meet the child's need for safety, stability, and connection with the child's family and community after the child is placed in a permanent placement with the proposed guardian; and

(4) in the case of an Indian child, communicate with the child's tribe to identify necessary and appropriate services for the child, transition planning for the child, the child's treatment needs, and how to maintain the child's connections to the child's community, family, and tribe.

(e) The agency shall invite the family and permanency team to participate in case planning and the agency shall give the team notice of court reviews under sections 260C.152 and 260C.221 until: (1) the child is reunited with the child's parents; or (2) the child's foster care placement ends and the child is in a permanent placement.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 88.

[260C.708] OUT-OF-HOME PLACEMENT PLAN FOR QUALIFIED RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT PROGRAM PLACEMENTS.

(a) When the responsible social services agency places a child in a qualified residential treatment program as defined in section 260C.007, subdivision 26d, the out-of-home placement plan must include:

(1) the case plan requirements in section 260.212, subdivision 1;

(2) the reasonable and good faith efforts of the responsible social services agency to identify and include all of the individuals required to be on the child's family and permanency team under section 260C.007;

(3) all contact information for members of the child's family and permanency team and for other relatives who are not part of the family and permanency team;

(4) evidence that the agency scheduled meetings of the family and permanency team, including meetings relating to the assessment required under section 260C.704, at a time and place convenient for the family;

(5) when reunification of the child with the child's parent or legal guardian is the agency's goal, evidence demonstrating that the parent or legal guardian provided input about the members of the family and permanency team under section 260C.706;

(6) when the agency's permanency goal is to reunify the child with the child's parent or legal guardian, the out-of-home placement plan must identify services and supports that maintain the parent-child relationship and the parent's legal authority, decision-making, and responsibility for ongoing planning for the child. In addition, the agency must assist the parent with visiting and contacting the child;

(7) when the agency's permanency goal is to transfer permanent legal and physical custody of the child to a proposed guardian or to finalize the child's adoption, the case plan must document the agency's steps to transfer permanent legal and physical custody of the child or finalize adoption, as required in section 260C.212, subdivision 1, paragraph (c), clauses (6) and (7); and

(8) the qualified individual's recommendation regarding the child's placement in a qualified residential treatment program and the court approval or disapproval of the placement as required in section 260C.71.

(b) If the placement preferences of the family and permanency team, child, and tribe, if applicable, are not consistent with the placement setting that the qualified individual recommends, the case plan must include the reasons why the qualified individual did not recommend following the preferences of the family and permanency team, child, and the tribe.

(c) The agency must file the out-of-home placement plan with the court as part of the 60-day hearing under section 260C.71.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 89.

[260C.71] COURT APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS.

(a) Within 60 days from the beginning of each placement in a qualified residential treatment program, the court must:

(1) consider the qualified individual's assessment of whether it is necessary and appropriate to place the child in a qualified residential treatment program under section 260C.704;

(2) determine whether a family foster home can meet the child's needs, whether it is necessary and appropriate to place a child in a qualified residential treatment program that is the least restrictive environment possible, and whether the child's placement is consistent with the child's short and long term goals as specified in the permanency plan; and

(3) approve or disapprove of the child's placement.

(b) In the out-of-home placement plan, the agency must document the court's approval or disapproval of the placement, as specified in section 260C.708.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 90.

[260C.712] ONGOING REVIEWS AND PERMANENCY HEARING REQUIREMENTS.

As long as a child remains placed in a qualified residential treatment program, the responsible social services agency shall submit evidence at each administrative review under section 260C.203; each court review under sections 260C.202, 260C.203, and 260C.204; and each permanency hearing under section 260C.515, 260C.519, or 260C.521, that:

(1) demonstrates that an ongoing assessment of the strengths and needs of the child continues to support the determination that the child's needs cannot be met through placement in a family foster home;

(2) demonstrates that the placement of the child in a qualified residential treatment program provides the most effective and appropriate level of care for the child in the least restrictive environment;

(3) demonstrates how the placement is consistent with the short-term and long-term goals for the child, as specified in the child's permanency plan;

(4) documents how the child's specific treatment or service needs will be met in the placement;

(5) documents the length of time that the agency expects the child to need treatment or services; and

(6) documents the responsible social services agency's efforts to prepare the child to return home or to be placed with a fit and willing relative, legal guardian, adoptive parent, or foster family.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 91.

[260C.714] REVIEW OF EXTENDED QUALIFIED RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT PROGRAM PLACEMENTS.

(a) When a responsible social services agency places a child in a qualified residential treatment program for more than 12 consecutive months or 18 nonconsecutive months or, in the case of a child who is under 13 years of age, for more than six consecutive or nonconsecutive months, the agency must submit: (1) the signed approval by the county social services director of the responsible social services agency; and (2) the evidence supporting the child's placement at the most recent court review or permanency hearing under section 260C.712, paragraph (b).

(b) The commissioner shall specify the procedures and requirements for the agency's review and approval of a child's extended qualified residential treatment program placement. The commissioner may consult with counties, tribes, child-placing agencies, mental health providers, licensed facilities, the child, the child's parents, and the family and permanency team members to develop case plan requirements and engage in periodic reviews of the case plan.

EFFECTIVE DATE.

This section is effective September 30, 2021.

Sec. 92.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 518.005, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Prohibited disclosure.

In all proceedings under this chapter and chapter 518A in which public assistance is assigned under section 256.741 or the public authority provides services to a party or parties to the proceedings, notwithstanding statutory or other authorization for the public authority to shall not release private data on the location of a party to the action, information on the location of one party may not be released by the public authority to the other party or the joint child if:

(1) the public authority has knowledge that one party is currently subject to a protective order with respect to the other party has been entered or the joint child, and the protected party or guardian of the joint child has not authorized disclosure; or

(2) the public authority has reason to believe that the release of the information may result in physical or emotional harm to the other a party or the joint child.

Sec. 93.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 518A.53, subdivision 11, is amended to read:

Subd. 11.

Lump-sum payments.

Before transmittal to the obligor of a lump-sum payment of $500 or more including, but not limited to, severance pay, accumulated sick pay, vacation pay, bonuses, commissions, or other pay or benefits, a payor of funds:

(1) who has been served with an order for or notice of income withholding under this section shall:

(i) notify the public authority of the lump-sum payment that is to be paid to the obligor;

(ii) hold the lump-sum payment for 30 days after the date on which the lump-sum payment would otherwise have been paid to the obligor, notwithstanding sections 176.221, 176.225, 176.521, 181.08, 181.101, 181.11, 181.13, and 181.145; and

(iii) upon order of the court, and after a showing of past willful nonpayment of support, pay any specified amount of the lump-sum payment to the public authority for future support; or

(2) shall pay the lessor of the amount of the lump-sum payment or the total amount of the judgment and arrearages upon service by United States mail of a sworn affidavit from the public authority or a court order that includes the following information:

(i) that a judgment entered pursuant to section 548.091, subdivision 1a, exists against the obligor, or that other support arrearages exist;

(ii) the current balance of the judgment or arrearage; and

(iii) that a portion of the judgment or arrearage remains unpaid.

The Consumer Credit Protection Act, title 15 of the United States Code, section 1673(b), does not apply to lump-sum payments.

Sec. 94.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 518A.68, is amended to read:

518A.68 RECREATIONAL LICENSE SUSPENSION.

(a) Upon motion of an obligee or the public authority, which has been properly served on the obligor by first class mail at the last known address or in person, and if at a hearing, the court finds that (1) the obligor is in arrears in court-ordered child support or maintenance payments, or both, in an amount equal to or greater than six times the obligor's total monthly support and maintenance payments and is not in compliance with a written payment agreement pursuant to section 518A.69, or (2) has failed, after receiving notice, to comply with a subpoena relating to a paternity or child support proceeding, the court may direct the commissioner of natural resources to suspend or bar receipt of the obligor's recreational license or licenses. Prior to utilizing this section, the court must find that other substantial enforcement mechanisms have been attempted but have not resulted in compliance.

(b) For purposes of this section, a recreational license includes all licenses, permits, and stamps issued centrally by the commissioner of natural resources under sections 97B.301, 97B.401, 97B.501, 97B.515, 97B.601, 97B.715, 97B.721, 97B.801, 97C.301, and 97C.305.

(c) An obligor whose recreational license or licenses have been suspended or barred may provide proof to the court that the obligor is in compliance with all written payment agreements pursuant to section 518A.69. A motion to reinstate a recreational license by the obligor, obligee, or public authority may be granted if the court finds:

(1) the reason for the suspension was accrual of arrears and the obligor is in compliance with all written payment agreements pursuant to section 518A.69 or has paid the arrears in full;

(2) the reason for the suspension was failure to comply with a subpoena and the obligor has complied with the subpoena; or

(3) the original motion to suspend was brought by the public authority and the public authority attests that the IV-D case is eligible for closure.

Within 15 days of receipt of that proof issuance of an order to reinstate the recreational license, the court shall notify the commissioner of natural resources that the obligor's recreational license or licenses should no longer be suspended nor should receipt be barred.

Sec. 95.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 518A.685, is amended to read:

518A.685 CONSUMER REPORTING AGENCY; REPORTING ARREARS.

(a) If a public authority determines that an obligor has not paid the current monthly support obligation plus any required arrearage payment for three months, the public authority must report this information to a consumer reporting agency.

(b) Before reporting that an obligor is in arrears for court-ordered child support, the public authority must:

(1) provide written notice to the obligor that the public authority intends to report the arrears to a consumer reporting agency; and

(2) mail the written notice to the obligor's last known mailing address at least 30 days before the public authority reports the arrears to a consumer reporting agency.

(c) The obligor may, within 21 days of receipt of the notice, do the following to prevent the public authority from reporting the arrears to a consumer reporting agency:

(1) pay the arrears in full; or

(2) request an administrative review. An administrative review is limited to issues of mistaken identity, a pending legal action involving the arrears, or an incorrect arrears balance.

(d) If the public authority has reported that an obligor is in arrears for court-ordered child support and subsequently determines that the obligor has paid the court-ordered child support arrears in full, or is paying the current monthly support obligation plus any required arrearage payment, the public authority must report to the consumer reporting agency that the obligor is currently paying child support as ordered by the court.

(e) (d) A public authority that reports arrearage information under this section must make monthly reports to a consumer reporting agency. The monthly report must be consistent with credit reporting industry standards for child support.

(f) (e) For purposes of this section, "consumer reporting agency" has the meaning given in section 13C.001, subdivision 4, and United States Code, title 15, section 1681a(f).

Sec. 96.

INSTRUCTION TO COMMISSIONER.

The commissioner must confer with the Association of Minnesota Counties, the Minnesota Association of County Social Service Administrators, other state and county agencies, Minnesota's Tribal communities, National Alliance on Mental Illness Minnesota, AspireMN, and other relevant stakeholders to make recommendations to the legislature regarding payment for the cost of treatment and care for residential treatment services, including community-based group care, for children currently served under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 260D. The recommendations must include the approximate cost of care that will no longer be eligible for federal Title IV-E reimbursement paid to the counties for children currently served through voluntary foster care placements. The recommendations must also explore the impact on youth currently served under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 260D, including access to medical assistance and nonresidential services, as well as the impact on equity for overrepresented populations in the child protection and child welfare systems in Minnesota. The commissioner must report back to the legislature by January 15, 2021.

Sec. 97.

REVISOR INSTRUCTION; CORRECTING TERMINOLOGY.

In Minnesota Statutes, sections 256.01, subdivisions 2 and 24; 256.975, subdivision 7; 256B.0911, subdivisions 1a, 3b, and 4d; and 256B.439, subdivision 4, the revisor of statutes must substitute the term "Disability Linkage Line" or similar terms for "Disability Hub" or similar terms. The revisor must also make grammatical changes related to the changes in terms.

Sec. 98.

REPEALER.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 245F.02, subdivision 20, is repealed.

ARTICLE 6

CIVIL COMMITMENT

Section 1.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.02, subdivision 4b, is amended to read:

Subd. 4b.

Community-based treatment program.

"Community-based treatment program" means treatment and services provided at the community level, including but not limited to community support services programs defined in section 245.462, subdivision 6; day treatment services defined in section 245.462, subdivision 8; outpatient services defined in section 245.462, subdivision 21; mental health crisis services under section 245.462, subdivision 14c; outpatient services defined in section 245.462, subdivision 21; assertive community treatment services under section 256B.0622; adult rehabilitation mental health services under section 256B.0623; home and community-based waivers; supportive housing; and residential treatment services as defined in section 245.462, subdivision 23. Community-based treatment program excludes services provided by a state-operated treatment program.

Sec. 2.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.02, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7.

Examiner.

"Examiner" means a person who is knowledgeable, trained, and practicing in the diagnosis and assessment or in the treatment of the alleged impairment, and who is: a licensed physician; a mental health professional as defined in section 245.462, subdivision 18, clauses (1) to (6); a licensed physician assistant; or an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) as defined in section 148.171, subdivision 3, who is practicing in the emergency room of a hospital, so long as the hospital has a process for credentialing and recredentialing any APRN acting as an examiner in an emergency room.

(1) a licensed physician;

(2) a licensed psychologist who has a doctoral degree in psychology or who became a licensed consulting psychologist before July 2, 1975; or

(3) an advanced practice registered nurse certified in mental health or a licensed physician assistant, except that only a physician or psychologist meeting these requirements may be appointed by the court as described by sections 253B.07, subdivision 3; 253B.092, subdivision 8, paragraph (b); 253B.17, subdivision 3; 253B.18, subdivision 2; and 253B.19, subdivisions 1 and 2, and only a physician or psychologist may conduct an assessment as described by Minnesota Rules of Criminal Procedure, rule 20.

Sec. 3.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.02, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 7a.

Court examiner.

"Court examiner" means a person appointed to serve the court, and who is a physician or licensed psychologist who has a doctoral degree in psychology.

Sec. 4.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.02, subdivision 8, is amended to read:

Subd. 8.

Head of the treatment facility or program.

"Head of the treatment facility or program" means the person who is charged with overall responsibility for the professional program of care and treatment of the facility or the person's designee treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program.

Sec. 5.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.02, subdivision 9, is amended to read:

Subd. 9.

Health officer.

"Health officer" means:

(1) a licensed physician;

(2) a licensed psychologist a mental health professional as defined in section 245.462, subdivision 18, clauses (1) to (6);

(3) a licensed social worker;

(4) a registered nurse working in an emergency room of a hospital;

(5) a psychiatric or public health nurse as defined in section 145A.02, subdivision 18;

(6) (5) an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) as defined in section 148.171, subdivision 3;

(7) (6) a mental health professional practitioner as defined in section 245.462, subdivision 17, providing mental health mobile crisis intervention services as described under section 256B.0624 with the consultation and approval by a mental health professional; or

(8) (7) a formally designated member of a prepetition screening unit established by section 253B.07.

Sec. 6.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.02, subdivision 10, is amended to read:

Subd. 10.

Interested person.

"Interested person" means:

(1) an adult who has a specific interest in the patient or proposed patient, including but not limited to, a public official, including a local welfare agency acting under section 626.5561, and 260E.31; a health care or mental health provider or the provider's employee or agent; the legal guardian, spouse, parent, legal counsel, adult child, or next of kin,; or other person designated by a patient or proposed patient; or

(2) a health plan company that is providing coverage for a proposed patient.

Sec. 7.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.02, subdivision 13, is amended to read:

Subd. 13.

Person who is mentally ill poses a risk of harm due to a mental illness.

(a) A "person who is mentally ill poses a risk of harm due to a mental illness" means any person who has an organic disorder of the brain or a substantial psychiatric disorder of thought, mood, perception, orientation, or memory which that grossly impairs judgment, behavior, capacity to recognize reality, or to reason or understand, which that is manifested by instances of grossly disturbed behavior or faulty perceptions and who, due to this impairment, poses a substantial likelihood of physical harm to self or others as demonstrated by:

(1) a failure to obtain necessary food, clothing, shelter, or medical care as a result of the impairment;

(2) an inability for reasons other than indigence to obtain necessary food, clothing, shelter, or medical care as a result of the impairment and it is more probable than not that the person will suffer substantial harm, significant psychiatric deterioration or debilitation, or serious illness, unless appropriate treatment and services are provided;

(3) a recent attempt or threat to physically harm self or others; or

(4) recent and volitional conduct involving significant damage to substantial property.

(b) A person is not mentally ill does not pose a risk of harm due to mental illness under this section if the person's impairment is solely due to:

(1) epilepsy;

(2) developmental disability;

(3) brief periods of intoxication caused by alcohol, drugs, or other mind-altering substances; or

(4) dependence upon or addiction to any alcohol, drugs, or other mind-altering substances.

Sec. 8.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.02, subdivision 16, is amended to read:

Subd. 16.

Peace officer.

"Peace officer" means a sheriff or deputy sheriff, or municipal or other local police officer, or a State Patrol officer when engaged in the authorized duties of office.

Sec. 9.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.02, subdivision 17, is amended to read:

Subd. 17.

Person who is mentally ill has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public.

(a) A "person who is mentally ill has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public" is a person:

(1) who is mentally ill has an organic disorder of the brain or a substantial psychiatric disorder of thought, mood, perception, orientation, or memory that grossly impairs judgment, behavior, capacity to recognize reality, or to reason or understand, and is manifested by instances of grossly disturbed behavior or faulty perceptions; and

(2) who as a result of that mental illness impairment presents a clear danger to the safety of others as demonstrated by the facts that (i) the person has engaged in an overt act causing or attempting to cause serious physical harm to another and (ii) there is a substantial likelihood that the person will engage in acts capable of inflicting serious physical harm on another.

(b) A person committed as a sexual psychopathic personality or sexually dangerous person as defined in subdivisions 18a and 18b is subject to the provisions of this chapter that apply to persons who are mentally ill and dangerous to the public.

Sec. 10.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.02, subdivision 18, is amended to read:

Subd. 18.

Regional State-operated treatment center program.

"Regional State-operated treatment center program" means any state-operated facility for persons who are mentally ill, developmentally disabled, or chemically dependent under the direct administrative authority of the commissioner means any state-operated program including community behavioral health hospitals, crisis centers, residential facilities, outpatient services, and other community-based services developed and operated by the state and under the commissioner's control for a person who has a mental illness, developmental disability, or chemical dependency.

Sec. 11.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.02, subdivision 19, is amended to read:

Subd. 19.

Treatment facility.

"Treatment facility" means a non-state-operated hospital, community mental health center, or other treatment provider residential treatment provider, crisis residential withdrawal management center, or corporate foster care home qualified to provide care and treatment for persons who are mentally ill, developmentally disabled, or chemically dependent who have a mental illness, developmental disability, or chemical dependency.

Sec. 12.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.02, subdivision 21, is amended to read:

Subd. 21.

Pass.

"Pass" means any authorized temporary, unsupervised absence from a state-operated treatment facility program.

Sec. 13.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.02, subdivision 22, is amended to read:

Subd. 22.

Pass plan.

"Pass plan" means the part of a treatment plan for a person patient who has been committed as mentally ill and a person who has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public that specifies the terms and conditions under which the patient may be released on a pass.

Sec. 14.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.02, subdivision 23, is amended to read:

Subd. 23.

Pass-eligible status.

"Pass-eligible status" means the status under which a person patient committed as mentally ill and a person who has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public may be released on passes after approval of a pass plan by the head of a state-operated treatment facility program.

Sec. 15.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.03, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Restraints.

(a) A patient has the right to be free from restraints. Restraints shall not be applied to a patient in a treatment facility or state-operated treatment program unless the head of the treatment facility, head of the state-operated treatment program, a member of the medical staff, or a licensed peace officer who has custody of the patient determines that they restraints are necessary for the safety of the patient or others.

(b) Restraints shall not be applied to patients with developmental disabilities except as permitted under section 245.825 and rules of the commissioner of human services. Consent must be obtained from the person patient or person's patient's guardian except for emergency procedures as permitted under rules of the commissioner adopted under section 245.825.

(c) Each use of a restraint and reason for it shall be made part of the clinical record of the patient under the signature of the head of the treatment facility.

Sec. 16.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.03, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Correspondence.

A patient has the right to correspond freely without censorship. The head of the treatment facility or head of the state-operated treatment program may restrict correspondence if the patient's medical welfare requires this restriction. For patients a patient in regional a state-operated treatment centers program, that determination may be reviewed by the commissioner. Any limitation imposed on the exercise of a patient's correspondence rights and the reason for it shall be made a part of the clinical record of the patient. Any communication which is not delivered to a patient shall be immediately returned to the sender.

Sec. 17.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.03, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Visitors and phone calls.

Subject to the general rules of the treatment facility or state-operated treatment program, a patient has the right to receive visitors and make phone calls. The head of the treatment facility or head of the state-operated treatment program may restrict visits and phone calls on determining that the medical welfare of the patient requires it. Any limitation imposed on the exercise of the patient's visitation and phone call rights and the reason for it shall be made a part of the clinical record of the patient.

Sec. 18.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.03, subdivision 4a, is amended to read:

Subd. 4a.

Disclosure of patient's admission.

Upon admission to a treatment facility or state-operated treatment program where federal law prohibits unauthorized disclosure of patient or resident identifying information to callers and visitors, the patient or resident, or the legal guardian of the patient or resident, shall be given the opportunity to authorize disclosure of the patient's or resident's presence in the facility to callers and visitors who may seek to communicate with the patient or resident. To the extent possible, the legal guardian of a patient or resident shall consider the opinions of the patient or resident regarding the disclosure of the patient's or resident's presence in the facility.

Sec. 19.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.03, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Periodic assessment.

A patient has the right to periodic medical assessment, including assessment of the medical necessity of continuing care and, if the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program declines to provide continuing care, the right to receive specific written reasons why continuing care is declined at the time of the assessment. The treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program shall assess the physical and mental condition of every patient as frequently as necessary, but not less often than annually. If the patient refuses to be examined, the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program shall document in the patient's chart its attempts to examine the patient. If a person patient is committed as developmentally disabled for an indeterminate period of time, the three-year judicial review must include the annual reviews for each year as outlined in Minnesota Rules, part 9525.0075, subpart 6 regarding the patient's need for continued commitment.

Sec. 20.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.03, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Consent for medical procedure.

(a) A patient has the right to give prior consent to any medical or surgical treatment, other than treatment for chemical dependency or nonintrusive treatment for mental illness.

(b) The following procedures shall be used to obtain consent for any treatment necessary to preserve the life or health of any committed patient:

(a) (1) the written, informed consent of a competent adult patient for the treatment is sufficient.;

(b) (2) if the patient is subject to guardianship which includes the provision of medical care, the written, informed consent of the guardian for the treatment is sufficient.;

(c) (3) if the head of the treatment facility or state-operated treatment program determines that the patient is not competent to consent to the treatment and the patient has not been adjudicated incompetent, written, informed consent for the surgery or medical treatment shall be obtained from the person appointed the health care power of attorney, the patient's agent under the health care directive, or the nearest proper relative. For this purpose, the following persons are proper relatives, in the order listed: the patient's spouse, parent, adult child, or adult sibling. If the nearest proper relatives cannot be located, refuse to consent to the procedure, or are unable to consent, the head of the treatment facility or state-operated treatment program or an interested person may petition the committing court for approval for the treatment or may petition a court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment of a guardian. The determination that the patient is not competent, and the reasons for the determination, shall be documented in the patient's clinical record.;

(d) (4) consent to treatment of any minor patient shall be secured in accordance with sections 144.341 to 144.346. A minor 16 years of age or older may consent to hospitalization, routine diagnostic evaluation, and emergency or short-term acute care.; and

(e) (5) in the case of an emergency when the persons ordinarily qualified to give consent cannot be located in sufficient time to address the emergency need, the head of the treatment facility or state-operated treatment program may give consent.

(c) No person who consents to treatment pursuant to the provisions of this subdivision shall be civilly or criminally liable for the performance or the manner of performing the treatment. No person shall be liable for performing treatment without consent if written, informed consent was given pursuant to this subdivision. This provision shall not affect any other liability which may result from the manner in which the treatment is performed.

Sec. 21.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.03, subdivision 6b, is amended to read:

Subd. 6b.

Consent for mental health treatment.

A competent person patient admitted voluntarily to a treatment facility or state-operated treatment program may be subjected to intrusive mental health treatment only with the person's patient's written informed consent. For purposes of this section, "intrusive mental health treatment" means electroshock electroconvulsive therapy and neuroleptic medication and does not include treatment for a developmental disability. An incompetent person patient who has prepared a directive under subdivision 6d regarding intrusive mental health treatment with intrusive therapies must be treated in accordance with this section, except in cases of emergencies.

Sec. 22.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.03, subdivision 6d, as amended by Laws 2020, chapter 115, article 4, section 101, is amended to read:

Subd. 6d.

Adult mental health treatment.

(a) A competent adult patient may make a declaration of preferences or instructions regarding intrusive mental health treatment. These preferences or instructions may include, but are not limited to, consent to or refusal of these treatments. A declaration of preferences or instructions may include a health care directive under chapter 145C or a psychiatric directive.

(b) A declaration may designate a proxy to make decisions about intrusive mental health treatment. A proxy designated to make decisions about intrusive mental health treatments and who agrees to serve as proxy may make decisions on behalf of a declarant consistent with any desires the declarant expresses in the declaration.

(c) A declaration is effective only if it is signed by the declarant and two witnesses. The witnesses must include a statement that they believe the declarant understands the nature and significance of the declaration. A declaration becomes operative when it is delivered to the declarant's physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or other mental health treatment provider. The physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or provider must comply with it the declaration to the fullest extent possible, consistent with reasonable medical practice, the availability of treatments requested, and applicable law. The physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or provider shall continue to obtain the declarant's informed consent to all intrusive mental health treatment decisions if the declarant is capable of informed consent. A treatment provider may must not require a person patient to make a declaration under this subdivision as a condition of receiving services.

(d) The physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or other provider shall make the declaration a part of the declarant's medical record. If the physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or other provider is unwilling at any time to comply with the declaration, the physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or provider must promptly notify the declarant and document the notification in the declarant's medical record. If the declarant has been committed as a patient under this chapter, the physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or provider may subject a declarant to intrusive treatment in a manner contrary to the declarant's expressed wishes, only upon order of the committing court. If the declarant is not a committed patient under this chapter, The physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or provider may subject the declarant to intrusive treatment in a manner contrary to the declarant's expressed wishes, only if the declarant is committed as mentally ill a person who poses a risk of harm due to mental illness or mentally ill as a person who has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public and a court order authorizing the treatment has been issued or an emergency has been declared under section 253B.092, subdivision 3.

(e) A declaration under this subdivision may be revoked in whole or in part at any time and in any manner by the declarant if the declarant is competent at the time of revocation. A revocation is effective when a competent declarant communicates the revocation to the attending physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or other provider. The attending physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or other provider shall note the revocation as part of the declarant's medical record.

(f) A provider who administers intrusive mental health treatment according to and in good faith reliance upon the validity of a declaration under this subdivision is held harmless from any liability resulting from a subsequent finding of invalidity.

(g) In addition to making a declaration under this subdivision, a competent adult may delegate parental powers under section 524.5-211 or may nominate a guardian under sections 524.5-101 to 524.5-502.

Sec. 23.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.03, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7.

Program Treatment plan.

A person patient receiving services under this chapter has the right to receive proper care and treatment, best adapted, according to contemporary professional standards, to rendering further supervision unnecessary. The treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program shall devise a written program treatment plan for each person patient which describes in behavioral terms the case problems, the precise goals, including the expected period of time for treatment, and the specific measures to be employed. Each plan shall be reviewed at least quarterly to determine progress toward the goals, and to modify the program plan as necessary. The development and review of treatment plans must be conducted as required under the license or certification of the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program. If there are no review requirements under the license or certification, the treatment plan must be reviewed quarterly. The program treatment plan shall be devised and reviewed with the designated agency and with the patient. The clinical record shall reflect the program treatment plan review. If the designated agency or the patient does not participate in the planning and review, the clinical record shall include reasons for nonparticipation and the plans for future involvement. The commissioner shall monitor the program treatment plan and review process for regional centers state-operated treatment programs to insure ensure compliance with the provisions of this subdivision.

Sec. 24.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.03, subdivision 10, is amended to read:

Subd. 10.

Notification.

(a) All persons patients admitted or committed to a treatment facility or state-operated treatment program, or temporarily confined under section 253B.045, shall be notified in writing of their rights regarding hospitalization and other treatment at the time of admission.

(b) This notification must include:

(1) patient rights specified in this section and section 144.651, including nursing home discharge rights;

(2) the right to obtain treatment and services voluntarily under this chapter;

(3) the right to voluntary admission and release under section 253B.04;

(4) rights in case of an emergency admission under section 253B.05 253B.051, including the right to documentation in support of an emergency hold and the right to a summary hearing before a judge if the patient believes an emergency hold is improper;

(5) the right to request expedited review under section 62M.05 if additional days of inpatient stay are denied;

(6) the right to continuing benefits pending appeal and to an expedited administrative hearing under section 256.045 if the patient is a recipient of medical assistance or MinnesotaCare; and

(7) the right to an external appeal process under section 62Q.73, including the right to a second opinion.

Sec. 25.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.04, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Voluntary admission and treatment.

(a) Voluntary admission is preferred over involuntary commitment and treatment. Any person 16 years of age or older may request to be admitted to a treatment facility or state-operated treatment program as a voluntary patient for observation, evaluation, diagnosis, care and treatment without making formal written application. Any person under the age of 16 years may be admitted as a patient with the consent of a parent or legal guardian if it is determined by independent examination that there is reasonable evidence that (1) the proposed patient has a mental illness, or is developmentally disabled developmental disability, or chemically dependent chemical dependency; and (2) the proposed patient is suitable for treatment. The head of the treatment facility or head of the state-operated treatment program shall not arbitrarily refuse any person seeking admission as a voluntary patient. In making decisions regarding admissions, the treatment facility or state-operated treatment program shall use clinical admission criteria consistent with the current applicable inpatient admission standards established by professional organizations including the American Psychiatric Association or, the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the Joint Commission, and the American Society of Addiction Medicine. These criteria must be no more restrictive than, and must be consistent with, the requirements of section 62Q.53. The treatment facility or head of the state-operated treatment program may not refuse to admit a person voluntarily solely because the person does not meet the criteria for involuntary holds under section 253B.05 253B.051 or the definition of a person who poses a risk of harm due to mental illness under section 253B.02, subdivision 13.

(b) In addition to the consent provisions of paragraph (a), a person who is 16 or 17 years of age who refuses to consent personally to admission may be admitted as a patient for mental illness or chemical dependency treatment with the consent of a parent or legal guardian if it is determined by an independent examination that there is reasonable evidence that the proposed patient is chemically dependent or has a mental illness and is suitable for treatment. The person conducting the examination shall notify the proposed patient and the parent or legal guardian of this determination.

(c) A person who is voluntarily participating in treatment for a mental illness is not subject to civil commitment under this chapter if the person:

(1) has given informed consent or, if lacking capacity, is a person for whom legally valid substitute consent has been given; and

(2) is participating in a medically appropriate course of treatment, including clinically appropriate and lawful use of neuroleptic medication and electroconvulsive therapy. The limitation on commitment in this paragraph does not apply if, based on clinical assessment, the court finds that it is unlikely that the person patient will remain in and cooperate with a medically appropriate course of treatment absent commitment and the standards for commitment are otherwise met. This paragraph does not apply to a person for whom commitment proceedings are initiated pursuant to rule 20.01 or 20.02 of the Rules of Criminal Procedure, or a person found by the court to meet the requirements under section 253B.02, subdivision 17.

(d) Legally valid substitute consent may be provided by a proxy under a health care directive, a guardian or conservator with authority to consent to mental health treatment, or consent to admission under subdivision 1a or 1b.

Sec. 26.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.04, subdivision 1a, is amended to read:

Subd. 1a.

Voluntary treatment or admission for persons with a mental illness.

(a) A person with a mental illness may seek or voluntarily agree to accept treatment or admission to a state-operated treatment program or treatment facility. If the mental health provider determines that the person lacks the capacity to give informed consent for the treatment or admission, and in the absence of a health care power of attorney directive or health care power of attorney that authorizes consent, the designated agency or its designee may give informed consent for mental health treatment or admission to a treatment facility or state-operated treatment program on behalf of the person.

(b) The designated agency shall apply the following criteria in determining the person's ability to give informed consent:

(1) whether the person demonstrates an awareness of the person's illness, and the reasons for treatment, its risks, benefits and alternatives, and the possible consequences of refusing treatment; and

(2) whether the person communicates verbally or nonverbally a clear choice concerning treatment that is a reasoned one, not based on delusion, even though it may not be in the person's best interests.

(c) The basis for the designated agency's decision that the person lacks the capacity to give informed consent for treatment or admission, and that the patient has voluntarily accepted treatment or admission, must be documented in writing.

(d) A mental health provider treatment facility or state-operated treatment program that provides treatment in reliance on the written consent given by the designated agency under this subdivision or by a substitute decision maker appointed by the court is not civilly or criminally liable for performing treatment without consent. This paragraph does not affect any other liability that may result from the manner in which the treatment is performed.

(e) A person patient who receives treatment or is admitted to a treatment facility or state-operated treatment program under this subdivision or subdivision 1b has the right to refuse treatment at any time or to be released from a treatment facility or state-operated treatment program as provided under subdivision 2. The person patient or any interested person acting on the person's patient's behalf may seek court review within five days for a determination of whether the person's patient's agreement to accept treatment or admission is voluntary. At the time a person patient agrees to treatment or admission to a treatment facility or state-operated treatment program under this subdivision, the designated agency or its designee shall inform the person patient in writing of the person's patient's rights under this paragraph.

(f) This subdivision does not authorize the administration of neuroleptic medications. Neuroleptic medications may be administered only as provided in section 253B.092 .

Sec. 27.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.04, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Release.

Every patient admitted for mental illness or developmental disability under this section shall be informed in writing at the time of admission that the patient has a right to leave the treatment facility or state-operated treatment program within 12 hours of making a request, unless held under another provision of this chapter. Every patient admitted for chemical dependency under this section shall be informed in writing at the time of admission that the patient has a right to leave the treatment facility or state-operated treatment program within 72 hours, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, of making a request, unless held under another provision of this chapter. The request shall be submitted in writing to the head of the treatment facility or state-operated treatment program or the person's designee.

Sec. 28.

[253B.041] SERVICES FOR ENGAGEMENT IN TREATMENT.

Subdivision 1.

Eligibility.

(a) The purpose of engagement services is to avoid the need for commitment and to enable the proposed patient to voluntarily engage in needed treatment. An interested person may apply to the county where a proposed patient resides to request engagement services.

(b) To be eligible for engagement services, the proposed patient must be at least 18 years of age, have a mental illness, and either:

(1) be exhibiting symptoms of serious mental illness including hallucinations, mania, delusional thoughts, or be unable to obtain necessary food, clothing, shelter, medical care, or provide necessary hygiene due to the patient's mental illness; or

(2) have a history of failing to adhere to treatment for mental illness, in that:

(i) the proposed patient's mental illness has been a substantial factor in necessitating hospitalization, or incarceration in a state or local correctional facility, not including any period during which the person was hospitalized or incarcerated immediately preceding filing the application for engagement; or

(ii) the proposed patient is exhibiting symptoms or behavior that may lead to hospitalization, incarceration, or court-ordered treatment.

Subd. 2.

Administration.

(a) Upon receipt of a request for engagement services, the county's prepetition screening team shall conduct an investigation to determine whether the proposed patient is eligible. In making this determination, the screening team shall seek any relevant information from an interested person.

(b) If the screening team determines that the proposed patient is eligible, engagement services must begin and include, but are not limited to:

(1) assertive attempts to engage the patient in voluntary treatment for mental illness for at least 90 days. Engagement services must be person-centered and continue even if the patient is an inmate in a non-state-operated correctional facility;

(2) efforts to engage the patient's existing systems of support, including interested persons, unless the engagement provider determines that involvement is not helpful to the patient. This includes education on restricting means of harm, suicide prevention, and engagement; and

(3) collaboration with the patient to meet immediate needs including access to housing, food, income, disability verification, medications, and treatment for medical conditions.

(c) Engagement services regarding potential treatment options must take into account the patient's preferences for services and supports. The county may offer engagement services through the designated agency or another agency under contract. Engagement services staff must have training in person-centered care. Engagement services staff may include but are not limited to mobile crisis teams under section 245.462, certified peer specialists under section 256B.0615, community-based treatment programs, and homeless outreach workers.

(d) If the patient voluntarily consents to receive mental health treatment, the engagement services staff must facilitate the referral to an appropriate mental health treatment provider including support obtaining health insurance if the proposed patient is currently or may become uninsured. If the proposed patient initially consents to treatment, but fails to initiate or continue treatment, the engagement services team must continue outreach efforts to the patient.

Subd. 3.

Commitment.

Engagement services for a patient to seek treatment may be stopped if the proposed patient is in need of commitment and satisfies the commitment criteria under section 253B.09, subdivision 1. In such a case, the engagement services team must immediately notify the designated agency, initiate the prepetition screening process under section 253B.07, or seek an emergency hold if necessary to ensure the safety of the patient or others.

Subd. 4.

Evaluation.

Counties may, but are not required to, provide engagement services. The commissioner may conduct a pilot project evaluating the impact of engagement services in decreasing commitments, increasing engagement in treatment, and other measures.

Sec. 29.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.045, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Facilities.

(a) Each county or a group of counties shall maintain or provide by contract a facility for confinement of persons held temporarily for observation, evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, and care. When the temporary confinement is provided at a regional state-operated treatment center program, the commissioner shall charge the county of financial responsibility for the costs of confinement of persons patients hospitalized under section 253B.05, subdivisions 1 and 2, sections 253B.051 and section 253B.07, subdivision 2b, except that the commissioner shall bill the responsible health plan first. Any charges not covered, including co-pays and deductibles shall be the responsibility of the county. If the person patient has health plan coverage, but the hospitalization does not meet the criteria in subdivision 6 or section 62M.07, 62Q.53, or 62Q.535, the county is responsible. When a person is temporarily confined in a Department of Corrections facility solely under subdivision 1a, and not based on any separate correctional authority:

(1) the commissioner of corrections may charge the county of financial responsibility for the costs of confinement; and

(2) the Department of Human Services shall use existing appropriations to fund all remaining nonconfinement costs. The funds received by the commissioner for the confinement and nonconfinement costs are appropriated to the department for these purposes.

(b) For the purposes of this subdivision, "county of financial responsibility" has the meaning specified in section 253B.02, subdivision 4c, or, if the person patient has no residence in this state, the county which initiated the confinement. The charge for confinement in a facility operated by the commissioner of human services shall be based on the commissioner's determination of the cost of care pursuant to section 246.50, subdivision 5. When there is a dispute as to which county is the county of financial responsibility, the county charged for the costs of confinement shall pay for them pending final determination of the dispute over financial responsibility.

Sec. 30.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.045, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Cost of care.

Notwithstanding subdivision 2, a county shall be responsible for the cost of care as specified under section 246.54 for persons a patient hospitalized at a regional state-operated treatment center program in accordance with section 253B.09 and the person's patient's legal status has been changed to a court hold under section 253B.07, subdivision 2b, pending a judicial determination regarding continued commitment pursuant to sections 253B.12 and 253B.13.

Sec. 31.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.045, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Health plan company; definition.

For purposes of this section, "health plan company" has the meaning given it in section 62Q.01, subdivision 4, and also includes a demonstration provider as defined in section 256B.69, subdivision 2, paragraph (b),; and a county or group of counties participating in county-based purchasing according to section 256B.692, and a children's mental health collaborative under contract to provide medical assistance for individuals enrolled in the prepaid medical assistance and MinnesotaCare programs according to sections 245.493 to 245.495.

Sec. 32.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.045, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Coverage.

(a) For purposes of this section, "mental health services" means all covered services that are intended to treat or ameliorate an emotional, behavioral, or psychiatric condition and that are covered by the policy, contract, or certificate of coverage of the enrollee's health plan company or by law.

(b) All health plan companies that provide coverage for mental health services must cover or provide mental health services ordered by a court of competent jurisdiction under a court order that is issued on the basis of a behavioral care evaluation performed by a licensed psychiatrist or a doctoral level licensed psychologist, which includes a diagnosis and an individual treatment plan for care in the most appropriate, least restrictive environment. The health plan company must be given a copy of the court order and the behavioral care evaluation. The health plan company shall be financially liable for the evaluation if performed by a participating provider of the health plan company and shall be financially liable for the care included in the court-ordered individual treatment plan if the care is covered by the health plan company and ordered to be provided by a participating provider or another provider as required by rule or law. This court-ordered coverage must not be subject to a separate medical necessity determination by a health plan company under its utilization procedures.

Sec. 33.

[253B.051] EMERGENCY ADMISSION.

Subdivision 1.

Peace officer or health officer authority.

(a) If a peace officer or health officer has reason to believe, either through direct observation of the person's behavior or upon reliable information of the person's recent behavior and, if available, knowledge or reliable information concerning the person's past behavior or treatment that the person:

(1) has a mental illness or developmental disability and is in danger of harming self or others if the officer does not immediately detain the patient, the peace officer or health officer may take the person into custody and transport the person to an examiner or a treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program;

(2) is chemically dependent or intoxicated in public and in danger of harming self or others if the officer does not immediately detain the patient, the peace officer or health officer may take the person into custody and transport the person to a treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program; or

(3) is chemically dependent or intoxicated in public and not in danger of harming self, others, or property, the peace officer or health officer may take the person into custody and transport the person to the person's home.

(b) An examiner's written statement or a health officer's written statement in compliance with the requirements of subdivision 2 is sufficient authority for a peace officer or health officer to take the person into custody and transport the person to a treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program.

(c) A peace officer or health officer who takes a person into custody and transports the person to a treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program under this subdivision shall make written application for admission of the person containing:

(1) the officer's statement specifying the reasons and circumstances under which the person was taken into custody;

(2) identifying information on specific individuals to the extent practicable, if danger to those individuals is a basis for the emergency hold; and

(3) the officer's name, the agency that employs the officer, and the telephone number or other contact information for purposes of receiving notice under subdivision 3.

(d) A copy of the examiner's written statement and officer's application shall be made available to the person taken into custody.

(e) The officer may provide the transportation personally or may arrange to have the person transported by a suitable medical or mental health transportation provider. As far as practicable, a peace officer who provides transportation for a person placed in a treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program under this subdivision must not be in uniform and must not use a vehicle visibly marked as a law enforcement vehicle.

Subd. 2.

Emergency hold.

(a) A treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program, other than a facility operated by the Minnesota sex offender program, may admit or hold a patient, including a patient transported under subdivision 1, for emergency care and treatment if the head of the facility or program consents to holding the patient and an examiner provides a written statement in support of holding the patient.

(b) The written statement must indicate that:

(1) the examiner examined the patient not more than 15 days prior to admission;

(2) the examiner interviewed the patient, or if not, the specific reasons why the examiner did not interview the patient;

(3) the examiner has the opinion that the patient has a mental illness or developmental disability, or is chemically dependent and is in danger of causing harm to self or others if a facility or program does not immediately detain the patient. The statement must include observations of the patient's behavior and avoid conclusory language. The statement must be specific enough to provide an adequate record for review. If danger to specific individuals is a basis for the emergency hold, the statement must identify those individuals to the extent practicable; and

(4) the facility or program cannot obtain a court order in time to prevent the anticipated injury.

(c) Prior to an examiner writing a statement, if another person brought the patient to the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program, the examiner shall make a good-faith effort to obtain information from that person, which the examiner must consider in deciding whether to place the patient on an emergency hold. To the extent available, the statement must include direct observations of the patient's behaviors, reliable knowledge of the patient's recent and past behavior, and information regarding the patient's psychiatric history, past treatment, and current mental health providers. The examiner shall also inquire about health care directives under chapter 145C and advance psychiatric directives under section 253B.03, subdivision 6d.

(d) The facility or program must give a copy of the examiner's written statement to the patient immediately upon initiating the emergency hold. The treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program shall maintain a copy of the examiner's written statement. The program or facility must inform the patient in writing of the right to (1) leave after 72 hours, (2) have a medical examination within 48 hours, and (3) request a change to voluntary status. The facility or program shall assist the patient in exercising the rights granted in this subdivision.

(e) The facility or program must not allow the patient nor require the patient's consent to participate in a clinical drug trial during an emergency admission or hold under this subdivision. If a patient gives consent to participate in a drug trial during a period of an emergency admission or hold, it is void and unenforceable. This paragraph does not prohibit a patient from continuing participation in a clinical drug trial if the patient was participating in the clinical drug trial at the time of the emergency admission or hold.

Subd. 3.

Duration of hold, release procedures, and change of status.

(a) If a peace officer or health officer transports a person to a treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program under subdivision 1, an examiner at the facility or program must examine the patient and make a determination about the need for an emergency hold as soon as possible and within 12 hours of the person's arrival. The peace officer or health officer hold ends upon whichever occurs first: (1) initiation of an emergency hold on the person under subdivision 2; (2) the person's voluntary admission; (3) the examiner's decision not to admit the person; or (4) 12 hours after the person's arrival.

(b) Under this section, the facility or program may hold a patient up to 72 hours, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, after the examiner signs the written statement for an emergency hold of the patient. The facility or program must release a patient when the emergency hold expires unless the facility or program obtains a court order to hold the patient. The facility or program may not place the patient on a consecutive emergency hold under this section.

(c) If the interested person files a petition to civilly commit the patient, the court may issue a judicial hold order pursuant to section 253B.07, subdivision 2b.

(d) During the 72-hour hold, a court must not release a patient under this section unless the court received a written petition for the patient's release and the court has held a summary hearing regarding the patient's release.

(e) The written petition for the patient's release must include the patient's name, the basis for the hold, the location of the hold, and a statement explaining why the hold is improper. The petition must also include copies of any written documentation under subdivision 1 or 2 that support the hold, unless the facility or program holding the patient refuses to supply the documentation. Upon receipt of a petition, the court must comply with the following:

(1) the court must hold the hearing as soon as practicable and the court may conduct the hearing by telephone conference call, interactive video conference, or similar method by which the participants are able to simultaneously hear each other;

(2) before deciding to release the patient, the court shall make every reasonable effort to provide notice of the proposed release and reasonable opportunity to be heard to:

(i) any specific individuals identified in a statement under subdivision 1 or 2 or individuals identified in the record who might be endangered if the person is not held;

(ii) the examiner whose written statement was the basis for the hold under subdivision 2; and

(iii) the peace officer or health officer who applied for a hold under subdivision 1; and

(3) if the court decides to release the patient, the court shall direct the patient's release and shall issue written findings supporting the decision. The facility or program must not delay the patient's release pending the written order.

(f) Notwithstanding section 144.293, subdivisions 2 and 4, if a treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program releases or discharges a patient during the 72-hour hold; the examiner refuses to admit the patient; or the patient leaves without the consent of the treating health care provider, the head of the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program shall immediately notify the agency that employs the peace officer or health officer who initiated the transport hold. This paragraph does not apply to the extent that the notice would violate federal law governing the confidentiality of alcohol and drug abuse patient records under Code of Federal Regulations, title 42, part 2.

(g) If a patient is intoxicated in public and a facility or program holds the patient under this section for detoxification, a treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program may release the patient without providing notice under paragraph (f) as soon as the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program determines that the person is no longer in danger of causing harm to self or others. The facility or program must provide notice to the peace officer or health officer who transported the person, or to the appropriate law enforcement agency, if the officer or agency requests notification.

(h) A treatment facility or state-operated treatment program must change a patient's status to voluntary status as provided in section 253B.04 upon the patient's request in writing if the head of the facility or program consents to the change.

Sec. 34.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.06, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Persons who are mentally ill or developmentally disabled with mental illness or developmental disability.

A physician must examine every patient hospitalized as mentally ill or developmentally disabled due to mental illness or developmental disability pursuant to section 253B.04 or 253B.05 must be examined by a physician 253B.051 as soon as possible but no more than 48 hours following the patient's admission. The physician shall must be knowledgeable and trained in the diagnosis of diagnosing the alleged disability related to the need for patient's mental illness or developmental disability, forming the basis of the patient's admission as a person who is mentally ill or developmentally disabled.

Sec. 35.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.06, subdivision 2, as amended by Laws 2020, chapter 115, article 4, section 102, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Chemically dependent persons.

Patients hospitalized A treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program must examine a patient hospitalized as chemically dependent pursuant to section 253B.04 or 253B.05 shall also be examined 253B.051 within 48 hours of admission. At a minimum, the examination shall consist of a physical evaluation by facility staff the facility or program must physically examine the patient according to procedures established by a physician or advanced practice registered nurse, and an evaluation by staff examining the patient must be knowledgeable and trained in the diagnosis of the alleged disability related to the need for forming the basis of the patient's admission as a chemically dependent person.

Sec. 36.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.06, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Discharge.

At the end of a 48-hour period, any the facility or program shall discharge a patient admitted pursuant to section 253B.05 shall be discharged 253B.051 if an examination has not been held or if the examiner or evaluation staff person fails to notify the head of the treatment facility or program in writing that in the examiner's or staff person's opinion the patient is apparently in need of care, treatment, and evaluation as a mentally ill, developmentally disabled, or chemically dependent person who has a mental illness, developmental disability, or chemical dependency.

Sec. 37.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.07, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Prepetition screening.

(a) Prior to filing a petition for commitment of or early intervention for a proposed patient, an interested person shall apply to the designated agency in the county of financial responsibility or the county where the proposed patient is present for conduct of a preliminary investigation as provided in section 253B.23, subdivision 1b, except when the proposed patient has been acquitted of a crime under section 611.026 and the county attorney is required to file a petition for commitment. The designated agency shall appoint a screening team to conduct an investigation. The petitioner may not be a member of the screening team. The investigation must include:

(1) a personal an interview with the proposed patient and other individuals who appear to have knowledge of the condition of the proposed patient, if practicable. In-person interviews with the proposed patient are preferred. If the proposed patient is not interviewed, specific reasons must be documented;

(2) identification and investigation of specific alleged conduct which is the basis for application;

(3) identification, exploration, and listing of the specific reasons for rejecting or recommending alternatives to involuntary placement;

(4) in the case of a commitment based on mental illness, the following information, if it is known or available, that may be relevant to the administration of neuroleptic medications, including the existence of a declaration under section 253B.03, subdivision 6d, or a health care directive under chapter 145C or a guardian, conservator, proxy, or agent with authority to make health care decisions for the proposed patient; information regarding the capacity of the proposed patient to make decisions regarding administration of neuroleptic medication; and whether the proposed patient is likely to consent or refuse consent to administration of the medication;

(5) seeking input from the proposed patient's health plan company to provide the court with information about services the enrollee needs and the least restrictive alternatives the patient's relevant treatment history and current treatment providers; and

(6) in the case of a commitment based on mental illness, information listed in clause (4) for other purposes relevant to treatment.

(b) In conducting the investigation required by this subdivision, the screening team shall have access to all relevant medical records of proposed patients currently in treatment facilities, state-operated treatment programs, or community-based treatment programs. The interviewer shall inform the proposed patient that any information provided by the proposed patient may be included in the prepetition screening report and may be considered in the commitment proceedings. Data collected pursuant to this clause shall be considered private data on individuals. The prepetition screening report is not admissible as evidence except by agreement of counsel or as permitted by this chapter or the rules of court and is not admissible in any court proceedings unrelated to the commitment proceedings.

(c) The prepetition screening team shall provide a notice, written in easily understood language, to the proposed patient, the petitioner, persons named in a declaration under chapter 145C or section 253B.03, subdivision 6d, and, with the proposed patient's consent, other interested parties. The team shall ask the patient if the patient wants the notice read and shall read the notice to the patient upon request. The notice must contain information regarding the process, purpose, and legal effects of civil commitment and early intervention. The notice must inform the proposed patient that:

(1) if a petition is filed, the patient has certain rights, including the right to a court-appointed attorney, the right to request a second court examiner, the right to attend hearings, and the right to oppose the proceeding and to present and contest evidence; and

(2) if the proposed patient is committed to a state regional treatment center or group home state-operated treatment program, the patient may be billed for the cost of care and the state has the right to make a claim against the patient's estate for this cost.

The ombudsman for mental health and developmental disabilities shall develop a form for the notice which includes the requirements of this paragraph.

(d) When the prepetition screening team recommends commitment, a written report shall be sent to the county attorney for the county in which the petition is to be filed. The statement of facts contained in the written report must meet the requirements of subdivision 2, paragraph (b).

(e) The prepetition screening team shall refuse to support a petition if the investigation does not disclose evidence sufficient to support commitment. Notice of the prepetition screening team's decision shall be provided to the prospective petitioner, any specific individuals identified in the examiner's statement, and to the proposed patient.

(f) If the interested person wishes to proceed with a petition contrary to the recommendation of the prepetition screening team, application may be made directly to the county attorney, who shall determine whether or not to proceed with the petition. Notice of the county attorney's determination shall be provided to the interested party.

(g) If the proposed patient has been acquitted of a crime under section 611.026, the county attorney shall apply to the designated county agency in the county in which the acquittal took place for a preliminary investigation unless substantially the same information relevant to the proposed patient's current mental condition, as could be obtained by a preliminary investigation, is part of the court record in the criminal proceeding or is contained in the report of a mental examination conducted in connection with the criminal proceeding. If a court petitions for commitment pursuant to the Rules of Criminal or Juvenile Procedure or a county attorney petitions pursuant to acquittal of a criminal charge under section 611.026, the prepetition investigation, if required by this section, shall be completed within seven days after the filing of the petition.

Sec. 38.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.07, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

The petition.

(a) Any interested person, except a member of the prepetition screening team, may file a petition for commitment in the district court of the county of financial responsibility or the county where the proposed patient is present. If the head of the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program believes that commitment is required and no petition has been filed, the head of the treatment facility that person shall petition for the commitment of the person proposed patient.

(b) The petition shall set forth the name and address of the proposed patient, the name and address of the patient's nearest relatives, and the reasons for the petition. The petition must contain factual descriptions of the proposed patient's recent behavior, including a description of the behavior, where it occurred, and the time period over which it occurred. Each factual allegation must be supported by observations of witnesses named in the petition. Petitions shall be stated in behavioral terms and shall not contain judgmental or conclusory statements.

(c) The petition shall be accompanied by a written statement by an examiner stating that the examiner has examined the proposed patient within the 15 days preceding the filing of the petition and is of the opinion that the proposed patient is suffering has a designated disability and should be committed to a treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program. The statement shall include the reasons for the opinion. In the case of a commitment based on mental illness, the petition and the examiner's statement shall include, to the extent this information is available, a statement and opinion regarding the proposed patient's need for treatment with neuroleptic medication and the patient's capacity to make decisions regarding the administration of neuroleptic medications, and the reasons for the opinion. If use of neuroleptic medications is recommended by the treating physician medical practitioner or other qualified medical provider, the petition for commitment must, if applicable, include or be accompanied by a request for proceedings under section 253B.092. Failure to include the required information regarding neuroleptic medications in the examiner's statement, or to include a request for an order regarding neuroleptic medications with the commitment petition, is not a basis for dismissing the commitment petition. If a petitioner has been unable to secure a statement from an examiner, the petition shall include documentation that a reasonable effort has been made to secure the supporting statement.

Sec. 39.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.07, subdivision 2a, is amended to read:

Subd. 2a.

Petition originating from criminal proceedings.

(a) If criminal charges are pending against a defendant, the court shall order simultaneous competency and civil commitment examinations in accordance with Minnesota Rules of Criminal Procedure, rule 20.04, when the following conditions are met:

(1) the prosecutor or defense counsel doubts the defendant's competency and a motion is made challenging competency, or the court on its initiative raises the issue under rule 20.01; and

(2) the prosecutor and defense counsel agree simultaneous examinations are appropriate.

No additional examination under subdivision 3 is required in a subsequent civil commitment proceeding unless a second examination is requested by defense counsel appointed following the filing of any petition for commitment.

(b) Only a court examiner may conduct an assessment as described in Minnesota Rules of Criminal Procedure, rules 20.01, subdivision 4, and 20.02, subdivision 2.

(c) Where a county is ordered to consider civil commitment following a determination of incompetency under Minnesota Rules of Criminal Procedure, rule 20.01, the county in which the criminal matter is pending is responsible to conduct prepetition screening and, if statutory conditions for commitment are satisfied, to file the commitment petition in that county. By agreement between county attorneys, prepetition screening and filing the petition may be handled in the county of financial responsibility or the county where the proposed patient is present.

(b) (d) Following an acquittal of a person of a criminal charge under section 611.026, the petition shall be filed by the county attorney of the county in which the acquittal took place and the petition shall be filed with the court in which the acquittal took place, and that court shall be the committing court for purposes of this chapter. When a petition is filed pursuant to subdivision 2 with the court in which acquittal of a criminal charge took place, the court shall assign the judge before whom the acquittal took place to hear the commitment proceedings unless that judge is unavailable.

Sec. 40.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.07, subdivision 2b, is amended to read:

Subd. 2b.

Apprehend and hold orders.

(a) The court may order the treatment facility or state-operated treatment program to hold the person in a treatment facility proposed patient or direct a health officer, peace officer, or other person to take the proposed patient into custody and transport the proposed patient to a treatment facility or state-operated treatment program for observation, evaluation, diagnosis, care, treatment, and, if necessary, confinement, when:

(1) there has been a particularized showing by the petitioner that serious physical harm to the proposed patient or others is likely unless the proposed patient is immediately apprehended;

(2) the proposed patient has not voluntarily appeared for the examination or the commitment hearing pursuant to the summons; or

(3) a person is held pursuant to section 253B.05 253B.051 and a request for a petition for commitment has been filed.

(b) The order of the court may be executed on any day and at any time by the use of all necessary means including the imposition of necessary restraint upon the proposed patient. Where possible, a peace officer taking the proposed patient into custody pursuant to this subdivision shall not be in uniform and shall not use a motor vehicle visibly marked as a police law enforcement vehicle. Except as provided in section 253D.10, subdivision 2, in the case of an individual on a judicial hold due to a petition for civil commitment under chapter 253D, assignment of custody during the hold is to the commissioner of human services. The commissioner is responsible for determining the appropriate placement within a secure treatment facility under the authority of the commissioner.

(c) A proposed patient must not be allowed or required to consent to nor participate in a clinical drug trial while an order is in effect under this subdivision. A consent given while an order is in effect is void and unenforceable. This paragraph does not prohibit a patient from continuing participation in a clinical drug trial if the patient was participating in the clinical drug trial at the time the order was issued under this subdivision.

Sec. 41.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.07, subdivision 2d, is amended to read:

Subd. 2d.

Change of venue.

Either party may move to have the venue of the petition changed to the district court of the Minnesota county where the person currently lives, whether independently or pursuant to a placement. The county attorney of the proposed county of venue must be notified of the motion and provided the opportunity to respond before the court rules on the motion. The court shall grant the motion if it determines that the transfer is appropriate and is in the interests of justice. If the petition has been filed pursuant to the Rules of Criminal or Juvenile Procedure, venue may not be changed without the agreement of the county attorney of the proposed county of venue and the approval of the court in which the juvenile or criminal proceedings are pending.

Sec. 42.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.07, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Court-appointed examiners.

After a petition has been filed, the court shall appoint an a court examiner. Prior to the hearing, the court shall inform the proposed patient of the right to an independent second examination. At the proposed patient's request, the court shall appoint a second court examiner of the patient's choosing to be paid for by the county at a rate of compensation fixed by the court.

Sec. 43.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.07, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Prehearing examination; report.

The examination shall be held at a treatment facility or other suitable place the court determines is not likely to harm the health of the proposed patient. The county attorney and the patient's attorney may be present during the examination. Either party may waive this right. Unless otherwise agreed by the parties, a court-appointed court examiner shall file the report with the court not less than 48 hours prior to the commitment hearing. The court shall ensure that copies of the court examiner's report are provided to the county attorney, the proposed patient, and the patient's counsel.

Sec. 44.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.07, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7.

Preliminary hearing.

(a) No proposed patient may be held in a treatment facility or state-operated treatment program under a judicial hold pursuant to subdivision 2b longer than 72 hours, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, unless the court holds a preliminary hearing and determines that the standard is met to hold the person proposed patient.

(b) The proposed patient, patient's counsel, the petitioner, the county attorney, and any other persons as the court directs shall be given at least 24 hours written notice of the preliminary hearing. The notice shall include the alleged grounds for confinement. The proposed patient shall be represented at the preliminary hearing by counsel. The court may admit reliable hearsay evidence, including written reports, for the purpose of the preliminary hearing.

(c) The court, on its motion or on the motion of any party, may exclude or excuse a proposed patient who is seriously disruptive or who is incapable of comprehending and participating in the proceedings. In such instances, the court shall, with specificity on the record, state the behavior of the proposed patient or other circumstances which justify proceeding in the absence of the proposed patient.

(d) The court may continue the judicial hold of the proposed patient if it finds, by a preponderance of the evidence, that serious physical harm to the proposed patient or others is likely if the proposed patient is not immediately confined. If a proposed patient was acquitted of a crime against the person under section 611.026 immediately preceding the filing of the petition, the court may presume that serious physical harm to the patient or others is likely if the proposed patient is not immediately confined.

(e) Upon a showing that a person proposed patient subject to a petition for commitment may need treatment with neuroleptic medications and that the person proposed patient may lack capacity to make decisions regarding that treatment, the court may appoint a substitute decision-maker as provided in section 253B.092, subdivision 6. The substitute decision-maker shall meet with the proposed patient and provider and make a report to the court at the hearing under section 253B.08 regarding whether the administration of neuroleptic medications is appropriate under the criteria of section 253B.092, subdivision 7. If the substitute decision-maker consents to treatment with neuroleptic medications and the proposed patient does not refuse the medication, neuroleptic medication may be administered to the proposed patient. If the substitute decision-maker does not consent or the proposed patient refuses, neuroleptic medication may not be administered without a court order, or in an emergency as set forth in section 253B.092, subdivision 3.

Sec. 45.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.08, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Time for commitment hearing.

(a) The hearing on the commitment petition shall be held within 14 days from the date of the filing of the petition, except that the hearing on a commitment petition pursuant to section 253D.07 shall be held within 90 days from the date of the filing of the petition. For good cause shown, the court may extend the time of hearing up to an additional 30 days. The proceeding shall be dismissed if the proposed patient has not had a hearing on a commitment petition within the allowed time.

(b) The proposed patient, or the head of the treatment facility or state-operated treatment program in which the person patient is held, may demand in writing at any time that the hearing be held immediately. Unless the hearing is held within five days of the date of the demand, exclusive of Saturdays, Sundays, and legal holidays, the petition shall be automatically dismissed if the patient is being held in a treatment facility or state-operated treatment program pursuant to court order. For good cause shown, the court may extend the time of hearing on the demand for an additional ten days. This paragraph does not apply to a commitment petition brought under section 253B.18 or chapter 253D.

Sec. 46.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.08, subdivision 2a, is amended to read:

Subd. 2a.

Place of hearing.

The hearing shall be conducted in a manner consistent with orderly procedure. The hearing shall be held at a courtroom meeting standards prescribed by local court rule which may be at a treatment facility or state-operated treatment program. The hearing may be conducted by interactive video conference under General Rules of Practice, rule 131, and Minnesota Rules of Civil Commitment, rule 14.

Sec. 47.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.08, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Absence permitted.

(a) The court may permit the proposed patient to waive the right to attend the hearing if it determines that the waiver is freely given. At the time of the hearing, the proposed patient shall not be so under the influence of drugs, medication, or other treatment so as to be hampered in participating in the proceedings. When the licensed physician or licensed psychologist attending the patient professional responsible for the proposed patient's treatment is of the opinion that the discontinuance of drugs, medication, or other treatment is not in the best interest of the proposed patient, the court, at the time of the hearing, shall be presented a record of all drugs, medication or other treatment which the proposed patient has received during the 48 hours immediately prior to the hearing.

(b) The court, on its own motion or on the motion of any party, may exclude or excuse a proposed patient who is seriously disruptive or who is incapable of comprehending and participating in the proceedings. In such instances, the court shall, with specificity on the record, state the behavior of the proposed patient or other circumstances justifying proceeding in the absence of the proposed patient.

Sec. 48.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.08, subdivision 5a, is amended to read:

Subd. 5a.

Witnesses.

The proposed patient or the patient's counsel and the county attorney may present and cross-examine witnesses, including court examiners, at the hearing. The court may in its discretion receive the testimony of any other person. Opinions of court-appointed court examiners may not be admitted into evidence unless the court examiner is present to testify, except by agreement of the parties.

Sec. 49.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.09, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Standard of proof.

(a) If the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that the proposed patient is a person who is mentally ill, developmentally disabled, or chemically dependent who poses a risk of harm due to mental illness, or is a person who has a developmental disability or chemical dependency, and after careful consideration of reasonable alternative dispositions, including but not limited to, dismissal of petition,; voluntary outpatient care,; voluntary admission to a treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program; appointment of a guardian or conservator,; or release before commitment as provided for in subdivision 4, it finds that there is no suitable alternative to judicial commitment, the court shall commit the patient to the least restrictive treatment program or alternative programs which can meet the patient's treatment needs consistent with section 253B.03, subdivision 7.

(b) In deciding on the least restrictive program, the court shall consider a range of treatment alternatives including, but not limited to, community-based nonresidential treatment, community residential treatment, partial hospitalization, acute care hospital, assertive community treatment teams, and regional state-operated treatment center services programs. The court shall also consider the proposed patient's treatment preferences and willingness to participate voluntarily in the treatment ordered. The court may not commit a patient to a facility or program that is not capable of meeting the patient's needs.

(c) If, after careful consideration of reasonable alternative dispositions, the court finds no suitable alternative to judicial commitment and the court finds that the least restrictive alternative as determined in paragraph (a) is a treatment facility or community-based treatment program that is less restrictive or more community based than a state-operated treatment program, and there is a treatment facility or a community-based treatment program willing to accept the civilly committed patient, the court may commit the patient to both the treatment facility or community-based treatment program and to the commissioner, in the event that treatment in a state-operated treatment program becomes the least restrictive alternative. If there is a change in the patient's level of care, then:

(1) if the patient needs a higher level of care requiring admission to a state-operated treatment program, custody of the patient and authority and responsibility for the commitment may be transferred to the commissioner for as long as the patient needs a higher level of care; and

(2) when the patient no longer needs treatment in a state-operated treatment program, the program may provisionally discharge the patient to an appropriate placement or release the patient to the treatment facility or community-based treatment program if the program continues to be willing and able to readmit the patient, in which case the commitment, its authority, and responsibilities revert to the non-state-operated treatment program. Both agencies accepting commitment shall coordinate admission and discharge planning to facilitate timely access to the other's services to meet the patient's needs and shall coordinate treatment planning consistent with section 253B.03, subdivision 7.

(c) (d) If the commitment as mentally ill, chemically dependent, or developmentally disabled is to a service facility provided by the commissioner of human services a person is committed to a state-operated treatment program as a person who poses a risk of harm due to mental illness or as a person who has a developmental disability or chemical dependency, the court shall order the commitment to the commissioner. The commissioner shall designate the placement of the person to the court.

(d) (e) If the court finds a proposed patient to be a person who is mentally ill poses a risk of harm due to mental illness under section 253B.02, subdivision 13, paragraph (a), clause (2) or (4), the court shall commit the patient to a treatment facility or community-based treatment program that meets the proposed patient's needs. For purposes of this paragraph, a community-based program may include inpatient mental health services at a community hospital.

Sec. 50.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.09, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Findings.

(a) The court shall find the facts specifically, and separately state its conclusions of law. Where commitment is ordered, the findings of fact and conclusions of law shall specifically state the proposed patient's conduct which is a basis for determining that each of the requisites for commitment is met.

(b) If commitment is ordered, the findings shall also identify less restrictive alternatives considered and rejected by the court and the reasons for rejecting each alternative.

(c) If the proceedings are dismissed, the court may direct that the person be transported back to a suitable location including to the person's home.

Sec. 51.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.09, subdivision 3a, is amended to read:

Subd. 3a.

Reporting judicial commitments; private treatment program or facility.

Notwithstanding section 253B.23, subdivision 9, when a court commits a patient to a non-state-operated treatment facility or program or facility other than a state-operated program or facility, the court shall report the commitment to the commissioner through the supreme court information system for purposes of providing commitment information for firearm background checks under section 245.041. If the patient is committed to a state-operated treatment program, the court shall send a copy of the commitment order to the commissioner.

Sec. 52.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.09, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Initial commitment period.

The initial commitment begins on the date that the court issues its order or warrant under section 253B.10, subdivision 1. For persons a person committed as mentally ill, developmentally disabled, a person who poses a risk of harm due to mental illness, a developmental disability, or chemically dependent chemical dependency, the initial commitment shall not exceed six months.

Sec. 53.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.092, is amended to read:

253B.092 ADMINISTRATION OF NEUROLEPTIC MEDICATION.

Subdivision 1.

General.

Neuroleptic medications may be administered, only as provided in this section, to patients subject to early intervention or civil commitment as mentally ill, mentally ill and dangerous, a sexually dangerous person, or a person with a sexual psychopathic personality under this chapter or chapter 253D. For purposes of this section, "patient" includes a proposed patient who is the subject of a petition for early intervention or commitment and a committed person as defined in section 253D.02, subdivision 4.

Subd. 2.

Administration without judicial review.

(a) Neuroleptic medications may be administered without judicial review in the following circumstances:

(1) the patient has the capacity to make an informed decision under subdivision 4;

(2) the patient does not have the present capacity to consent to the administration of neuroleptic medication, but prepared a health care power of attorney, a health care directive under chapter 145C, or a declaration under section 253B.03, subdivision 6d, requesting treatment or authorizing an agent or proxy to request treatment, and the agent or proxy has requested the treatment;

(3) the patient has been prescribed neuroleptic medication prior to admission to a treatment facility, but lacks the present capacity to consent to the administration of that neuroleptic medication; continued administration of the medication is in the patient's best interest; and the patient does not refuse administration of the medication. In this situation, the previously prescribed neuroleptic medication may be continued for up to 14 days while the treating physician medical practitioner:

(i) is obtaining a substitute decision-maker appointed by the court under subdivision 6; or

(ii) is requesting a court order authorizing administering neuroleptic medication or an amendment to a current court order authorizing administration of neuroleptic medication;

(4) a substitute decision-maker appointed by the court consents to the administration of the neuroleptic medication and the patient does not refuse administration of the medication; or

(5) the substitute decision-maker does not consent or the patient is refusing medication, and the patient is in an emergency situation.

(b) For the purposes of paragraph (a), clause (3), if a person requests a substitute decision-maker or requests a court order administering neuroleptic medication within 14 days, the treating medical practitioner may continue administering the medication to the patient through the hearing date or until the court otherwise issues an order.

Subd. 3.

Emergency administration.

A treating physician medical practitioner may administer neuroleptic medication to a patient who does not have capacity to make a decision regarding administration of the medication if the patient is in an emergency situation. Medication may be administered for so long as the emergency continues to exist, up to 14 days, if the treating physician medical practitioner determines that the medication is necessary to prevent serious, immediate physical harm to the patient or to others. If a request for authorization to administer medication is made to the court within the 14 days, the treating physician medical practitioner may continue the medication through the date of the first court hearing, if the emergency continues to exist. If the request for authorization to administer medication is made to the court in conjunction with a petition for commitment or early intervention and the court makes a determination at the preliminary hearing under section 253B.07, subdivision 7, that there is sufficient cause to continue the physician's medical practitioner's order until the hearing under section 253B.08, the treating physician medical practitioner may continue the medication until that hearing, if the emergency continues to exist. The treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program shall document the emergency in the patient's medical record in specific behavioral terms.

Subd. 4.

Patients with capacity to make informed decision.

A patient who has the capacity to make an informed decision regarding the administration of neuroleptic medication may consent or refuse consent to administration of the medication. The informed consent of a patient must be in writing.

Subd. 5.

Determination of capacity.

(a) There is a rebuttable presumption that a patient is presumed to have has the capacity to make decisions regarding administration of neuroleptic medication.

(b) In determining A person's patient has the capacity to make decisions regarding the administration of neuroleptic medication, the court shall consider if the patient:

(1) whether the person demonstrates has an awareness of the nature of the person's patient's situation, including the reasons for hospitalization, and the possible consequences of refusing treatment with neuroleptic medications;

(2) whether the person demonstrates has an understanding of treatment with neuroleptic medications and the risks, benefits, and alternatives; and

(3) whether the person communicates verbally or nonverbally a clear choice regarding treatment with neuroleptic medications that is a reasoned one not based on delusion a symptom of the patient's mental illness, even though it may not be in the person's patient's best interests.

(c) Disagreement with the physician's medical practitioner's recommendation alone is not evidence of an unreasonable decision.

Subd. 6.

Patients without capacity to make informed decision; substitute decision-maker.

(a) Upon request of any person, and upon a showing that administration of neuroleptic medications may be recommended and that the person patient may lack capacity to make decisions regarding the administration of neuroleptic medication, the court shall appoint a substitute decision-maker with authority to consent to the administration of neuroleptic medication as provided in this section. A hearing is not required for an appointment under this paragraph. The substitute decision-maker must be an individual or a community or institutional multidisciplinary panel designated by the local mental health authority. In appointing a substitute decision-maker, the court shall give preference to a guardian or conservator, proxy, or health care agent with authority to make health care decisions for the patient. The court may provide for the payment of a reasonable fee to the substitute decision-maker for services under this section or may appoint a volunteer.

(b) If the person's treating physician patient's treating medical practitioner recommends treatment with neuroleptic medication, the substitute decision-maker may give or withhold consent to the administration of the medication, based on the standards under subdivision 7. If the substitute decision-maker gives informed consent to the treatment and the person patient does not refuse, the substitute decision-maker shall provide written consent to the treating physician medical practitioner and the medication may be administered. The substitute decision-maker shall also notify the court that consent has been given. If the substitute decision-maker refuses or withdraws consent or the person patient refuses the medication, neuroleptic medication may must not be administered to the person without patient except with a court order or in an emergency.

(c) A substitute decision-maker appointed under this section has access to the relevant sections of the patient's health records on the past or present administration of medication. The designated agency or a person involved in the patient's physical or mental health care may disclose information to the substitute decision-maker for the sole purpose of performing the responsibilities under this section. The substitute decision-maker may not disclose health records obtained under this paragraph except to the extent necessary to carry out the duties under this section.

(d) At a hearing under section 253B.08, the petitioner has the burden of proving incapacity by a preponderance of the evidence. If a substitute decision-maker has been appointed by the court, the court shall make findings regarding the patient's capacity to make decisions regarding the administration of neuroleptic medications and affirm or reverse its appointment of a substitute decision-maker. If the court affirms the appointment of the substitute decision-maker, and if the substitute decision-maker has consented to the administration of the medication and the patient has not refused, the court shall make findings that the substitute decision-maker has consented and the treatment is authorized. If a substitute decision-maker has not yet been appointed, upon request the court shall make findings regarding the patient's capacity and appoint a substitute decision-maker if appropriate.

(e) If an order for civil commitment or early intervention did not provide for the appointment of a substitute decision-maker or for the administration of neuroleptic medication, the a treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program may later request the appointment of a substitute decision-maker upon a showing that administration of neuroleptic medications is recommended and that the person patient lacks capacity to make decisions regarding the administration of neuroleptic medications. A hearing is not required in order to administer the neuroleptic medication unless requested under subdivision 10 or if the substitute decision-maker withholds or refuses consent or the person patient refuses the medication.

(f) The substitute decision-maker's authority to consent to treatment lasts for the duration of the court's order of appointment or until modified by the court.

If the substitute decision-maker withdraws consent or the patient refuses consent, neuroleptic medication may not be administered without a court order.

(g) If there is no hearing after the preliminary hearing, then the court shall, upon the request of any interested party, review the reasonableness of the substitute decision-maker's decision based on the standards under subdivision 7. The court shall enter an order upholding or reversing the decision within seven days.

Subd. 7.

When person patient lacks capacity to make decisions about medication.

(a) When a person patient lacks capacity to make decisions regarding the administration of neuroleptic medication, the substitute decision-maker or the court shall use the standards in this subdivision in making a decision regarding administration of the medication.

(b) If the person patient clearly stated what the person patient would choose to do in this situation when the person patient had the capacity to make a reasoned decision, the person's patient's wishes must be followed. Evidence of the person's patient's wishes may include written instruments, including a durable power of attorney for health care under chapter 145C or a declaration under section 253B.03, subdivision 6d.

(c) If evidence of the person's patient's wishes regarding the administration of neuroleptic medications is conflicting or lacking, the decision must be based on what a reasonable person would do, taking into consideration:

(1) the person's patient's family, community, moral, religious, and social values;

(2) the medical risks, benefits, and alternatives to the proposed treatment;

(3) past efficacy and any extenuating circumstances of past use of neuroleptic medications; and

(4) any other relevant factors.

Subd. 8.

Procedure when patient refuses neuroleptic medication.

(a) If the substitute decision-maker or the patient refuses to consent to treatment with neuroleptic medications, and absent an emergency as set forth in subdivision 3, neuroleptic medications may not be administered without a court order. Upon receiving a written request for a hearing, the court shall schedule the hearing within 14 days of the request. The matter may be heard as part of any other district court proceeding under this chapter. By agreement of the parties or for good cause shown, the court may extend the time of hearing an additional 30 days.

(b) The patient must be examined by a court examiner prior to the hearing. If the patient refuses to participate in an examination, the court examiner may rely on the patient's medical records to reach an opinion as to the appropriateness of neuroleptic medication. The patient is entitled to counsel and a second court examiner, if requested by the patient or patient's counsel.

(c) The court may base its decision on relevant and admissible evidence, including the testimony of a treating physician medical practitioner or other qualified physician, a member of the patient's treatment team, a court-appointed court examiner, witness testimony, or the patient's medical records.

(d) If the court finds that the patient has the capacity to decide whether to take neuroleptic medication or that the patient lacks capacity to decide and the standards for making a decision to administer the medications under subdivision 7 are not met, the treating treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program may not administer medication without the patient's informed written consent or without the declaration of an emergency, or until further review by the court.

(e) If the court finds that the patient lacks capacity to decide whether to take neuroleptic medication and has applied the standards set forth in subdivision 7, the court may authorize the treating treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program and any other community or treatment facility or program to which the patient may be transferred or provisionally discharged, to involuntarily administer the medication to the patient. A copy of the order must be given to the patient, the patient's attorney, the county attorney, and the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program. The treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program may not begin administration of the neuroleptic medication until it notifies the patient of the court's order authorizing the treatment.

(f) A finding of lack of capacity under this section must not be construed to determine the patient's competence for any other purpose.

(g) The court may authorize the administration of neuroleptic medication until the termination of a determinate commitment. If the patient is committed for an indeterminate period, the court may authorize treatment of neuroleptic medication for not more than two years, subject to the patient's right to petition the court for review of the order. The treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program must submit annual reports to the court, which shall provide copies to the patient and the respective attorneys.

(h) The court may limit the maximum dosage of neuroleptic medication that may be administered.

(i) If physical force is required to administer the neuroleptic medication, the facility or program may only use injectable medications. If physical force is needed to administer the medication, medication may only take place be administered in a treatment facility or therapeutic setting where the person's condition can be reassessed and appropriate medical staff personnel qualified to administer medication are available, including in the community, a county jail, or a correctional facility. The facility or program may not use a nasogastric tube to administer neuroleptic medication involuntarily.

Subd. 9.

Immunity.

A substitute decision-maker who consents to treatment is not civilly or criminally liable for the performance of or the manner of performing the treatment. A person is not liable for performing treatment without consent if the substitute decision-maker has given written consent. This provision does not affect any other liability that may result from the manner in which the treatment is performed.

Subd. 10.

Review.

A patient or other person may petition the court under section 253B.17 for review of any determination under this section or for a decision regarding the administration of neuroleptic medications, appointment of a substitute decision-maker, or the patient's capacity to make decisions regarding administration of neuroleptic medications.

Sec. 54.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.0921, is amended to read:

253B.0921 ACCESS TO MEDICAL RECORDS.

A treating physician medical practitioner who makes medical decisions regarding the prescription and administration of medication for treatment of a mental illness has access to the relevant sections of a patient's health records on past administration of medication at any treatment facility, program, or treatment provider, if the patient lacks the capacity to authorize the release of records. Upon request of a treating physician medical practitioner under this section, a treatment facility, program, or treatment provider shall supply complete information relating to the past records on administration of medication of a patient subject to this chapter. A patient who has the capacity to authorize the release of data retains the right to make decisions regarding access to medical records as provided by sections 144.291 to 144.298.

Sec. 55.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.095, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Duration.

The maximum duration of a stayed order under this section is six months. The court may continue the order for a maximum of an additional 12 months if, after notice and hearing, under sections 253B.08 and 253B.09 the court finds that (1) the person continues to be mentally ill, chemically dependent, or developmentally disabled, have a mental illness, developmental disability, or chemical dependency, and (2) an order is needed to protect the patient or others because the person is likely to attempt to physically harm self or others or fail to obtain necessary food, clothing, shelter, or medical care unless the person is under the supervision of a stayed commitment.

Sec. 56.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.097, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Findings.

In addition to the findings required under section 253B.09, subdivision 2, an order committing a person to a community-based treatment program must include:

(1) a written plan for services to the patient;

(2) a finding that the proposed treatment is available and accessible to the patient and that public or private financial resources are available to pay for the proposed treatment;

(3) conditions the patient must meet in order to obtain an early release from commitment or to avoid a hearing for further commitment; and

(4) consequences of the patient's failure to follow the commitment order. Consequences may include commitment to another setting for treatment.

Sec. 57.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.097, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Case manager.

When a court commits a patient with mental illness to a community-based treatment program, the court shall appoint a case manager from the county agency or other entity under contract with the county agency to provide case management services.

Sec. 58.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.097, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Reports.

The case manager shall report to the court at least once every 90 days. The case manager shall immediately report to the court a substantial failure of the patient or provider to comply with the conditions of the commitment.

Sec. 59.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.097, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Immunity from liability.

No treatment facility, community-based treatment program, or person is financially liable, personally or otherwise, for the patient's actions of the patient if the facility or person follows accepted community standards of professional practice in the management, supervision, and treatment of the patient. For purposes of this subdivision, "person" means official, staff, employee of the treatment facility, community-based treatment program, physician, or other individual who is responsible for the a patient's management, supervision, or treatment of a patient's community-based treatment under this section.

Sec. 60.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.10, is amended to read:

253B.10 PROCEDURES UPON COMMITMENT.

Subdivision 1.

Administrative requirements.

(a) When a person is committed, the court shall issue a warrant or an order committing the patient to the custody of the head of the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program. The warrant or order shall state that the patient meets the statutory criteria for civil commitment.

(b) The commissioner shall prioritize patients being admitted from jail or a correctional institution who are:

(1) ordered confined in a state hospital state-operated treatment program for an examination under Minnesota Rules of Criminal Procedure, rules 20.01, subdivision 4, paragraph (a), and 20.02, subdivision 2;

(2) under civil commitment for competency treatment and continuing supervision under Minnesota Rules of Criminal Procedure, rule 20.01, subdivision 7;

(3) found not guilty by reason of mental illness under Minnesota Rules of Criminal Procedure, rule 20.02, subdivision 8, and under civil commitment or are ordered to be detained in a state hospital or other facility state-operated treatment program pending completion of the civil commitment proceedings; or

(4) committed under this chapter to the commissioner after dismissal of the patient's criminal charges.

Patients described in this paragraph must be admitted to a service operated by the commissioner state-operated treatment program within 48 hours. The commitment must be ordered by the court as provided in section 253B.09, subdivision 1, paragraph (c) (d).

(c) Upon the arrival of a patient at the designated treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program, the head of the facility or program shall retain the duplicate of the warrant and endorse receipt upon the original warrant or acknowledge receipt of the order. The endorsed receipt or acknowledgment must be filed in the court of commitment. After arrival, the patient shall be under the control and custody of the head of the treatment facility or program.

(d) Copies of the petition for commitment, the court's findings of fact and conclusions of law, the court order committing the patient, the report of the court examiners, and the prepetition report, and any medical and behavioral information available shall be provided at the time of admission of a patient to the designated treatment facility or program to which the patient is committed. This information shall also be provided by the head of the treatment facility to treatment facility staff in a consistent and timely manner and pursuant to all applicable laws. Upon a patient's referral to the commissioner of human services for admission pursuant to subdivision 1, paragraph (b), any inpatient hospital, treatment facility, jail, or correctional facility that has provided care or supervision to the patient in the previous two years shall, when requested by the treatment facility or commissioner, provide copies of the patient's medical and behavioral records to the Department of Human Services for purposes of preadmission planning. This information shall be provided by the head of the treatment facility to treatment facility staff in a consistent and timely manner and pursuant to all applicable laws.

Subd. 2.

Transportation.

(a) When a patient is about to be placed in a treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program, the court may order the designated agency, the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program, or any responsible adult to transport the patient to the treatment facility. A protected transport provider may transport the patient according to section 256B.0625, subdivision 17. Whenever possible, a peace officer who provides the transportation shall not be in uniform and shall not use a vehicle visibly marked as a police law enforcement vehicle. The proposed patient may be accompanied by one or more interested persons.

(b) When a patient who is at a regional state-operated treatment center program requests a hearing for adjudication of a patient's status pursuant to section 253B.17, the commissioner shall provide transportation.

Subd. 3.

Notice of admission.

Whenever a committed person has been admitted to a treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program under the provisions of section 253B.09 or 253B.18, the head of the treatment facility or program shall immediately notify the patient's spouse, health care agent, or parent and the county of financial responsibility if the county may be liable for a portion of the cost of treatment. If the committed person was admitted upon the petition of a spouse, health care agent, or parent, the head of the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program shall notify an interested person other than the petitioner.

Subd. 3a.

Interim custody and treatment of committed person.

When the patient is present in a treatment facility or state-operated treatment program at the time of the court's commitment order, unless the court orders otherwise, the commitment order constitutes authority for that facility or program to confine and provide treatment to the patient until the patient is transferred to the facility or program to which the patient has been committed.

Subd. 4.

Private treatment.

Patients or other responsible persons are required to pay the necessary charges for patients committed or transferred to private treatment facilities or community-based treatment programs. Private Treatment facilities or community-based treatment programs may not refuse to accept a committed person solely based on the person's court-ordered status. Insurers must provide treatment and services as ordered by the court under section 253B.045, subdivision 6, or as required under chapter 62M.

Subd. 5.

Transfer to voluntary status.

At any time prior to the expiration of the initial commitment period, a patient who has not been committed as mentally ill a person who has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public or as a sexually dangerous person or as a sexual psychopathic personality may be transferred to voluntary status upon the patient's application in writing with the consent of the head of the facility or program to which the person is committed. Upon transfer, the head of the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program shall immediately notify the court in writing and the court shall terminate the proceedings.

Sec. 61.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.12, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Reports.

(a) If a patient who was committed as a person who is mentally ill, developmentally disabled, or chemically dependent who poses a risk of harm due to a mental illness, or as a person who has a developmental disability or chemical dependency, is discharged from commitment within the first 60 days after the date of the initial commitment order, the head of the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program shall file a written report with the committing court describing the patient's need for further treatment. A copy of the report must be provided to the county attorney, the patient, and the patient's counsel.

(b) If a patient who was committed as a person who is mentally ill, developmentally disabled, or chemically dependent who poses a risk of harm due to a mental illness, or as a person who has a developmental disability or chemical dependency, remains in treatment more than 60 days after the date of the commitment, then at least 60 days, but not more than 90 days, after the date of the order, the head of the facility or program that has custody of the patient shall file a written report with the committing court and provide a copy to the county attorney, the patient, and the patient's counsel. The report must set forth in detailed narrative form at least the following:

(1) the diagnosis of the patient with the supporting data;

(2) the anticipated discharge date;

(3) an individualized treatment plan;

(4) a detailed description of the discharge planning process with suggested after care plan;

(5) whether the patient is in need of further care and treatment, the treatment facility which, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program that is needed, and evidence to support the response;

(6) whether the patient satisfies the statutory requirement for continued commitment to a treatment facility, with documentation to support the opinion; and

(7) a statement from the patient related to accepting treatment, if possible; and

(7) (8) whether the administration of neuroleptic medication is clinically indicated, whether the patient is able to give informed consent to that medication, and the basis for these opinions.

(c) Prior to the termination of the initial commitment order or final discharge of the patient, the head of the treatment facility or program that has custody or care of the patient shall file a written report with the committing court with a copy to the county attorney, the patient, and the patient's counsel that sets forth the information required in paragraph (b).

(d) If the patient has been provisionally discharged from a treatment facility or program, the report shall be filed by the designated agency, which may submit the discharge report as part of its report.

(e) If no written report is filed within the required time, or If a report describes the patient as not in need of further institutional care and court-ordered treatment, the proceedings must be terminated by the committing court and the patient discharged from the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program, unless the patient chooses to voluntarily receive services.

(f) If no written report is filed within the required time, the court must notify the county, facility or program to which the person is committed, and designated agency and require a report be filed within five business days. If a report is not filed within five business days a hearing must be held within three business days.

Sec. 62.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.12, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Examination.

Prior to the review hearing, the court shall inform the patient of the right to an independent examination by an a court examiner chosen by the patient and appointed in accordance with provisions of section 253B.07, subdivision 3. The report of the court examiner may be submitted at the hearing.

Sec. 63.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.12, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Hearing; standard of proof.

(a) The committing court shall not make a final determination of the need to continue commitment unless the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that (1) the person patient continues to be mentally ill, developmentally disabled, or chemically dependent have a mental illness, developmental disability, or chemical dependency; (2) involuntary commitment is necessary for the protection of the patient or others; and (3) there is no alternative to involuntary commitment.

(b) In determining whether a person patient continues to be mentally ill, chemically dependent, or developmentally disabled, require commitment due to mental illness, developmental disability, or chemical dependency, the court need not find that there has been a recent attempt or threat to physically harm self or others, or a recent failure to provide necessary personal food, clothing, shelter, or medical care. Instead, the court must find that the patient is likely to attempt to physically harm self or others, or to fail to provide obtain necessary personal food, clothing, shelter, or medical care unless involuntary commitment is continued.

Sec. 64.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.12, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7.

Record required.

Where continued commitment is ordered, the findings of fact and conclusions of law shall specifically state the conduct of the proposed patient which is the basis for the final determination, that the statutory criteria of commitment continue to be met, and that less restrictive alternatives have been considered and rejected by the court. Reasons for rejecting each alternative shall be stated. A copy of the final order for continued commitment shall be forwarded to the head of the treatment facility or program to which the person is committed and, if the patient has been provisionally discharged, to the designated agency responsible for monitoring the provisional discharge.

Sec. 65.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.13, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Mentally ill or chemically dependent Persons with mental illness or chemical dependency.

(a) If at the conclusion of a review hearing the court finds that the person continues to be mentally ill or chemically dependent have mental illness or chemical dependency and in need of treatment or supervision, the court shall determine the length of continued commitment. No period of commitment shall exceed this length of time or 12 months, whichever is less.

(b) At the conclusion of the prescribed period under paragraph (a), commitment may not be continued unless a new petition is filed pursuant to section 253B.07 and hearing and determination made on it. If the petition was filed before the end of the previous commitment and, for good cause shown, the court has not completed the hearing and the determination by the end of the commitment period, the court may for good cause extend the previous commitment for up to 14 days to allow the completion of the hearing and the issuance of the determination. The standard of proof for the new petition is the standard specified in section 253B.12, subdivision 4. Notwithstanding the provisions of section 253B.09, subdivision 5, the initial commitment period under the new petition shall be the probable length of commitment necessary or 12 months, whichever is less. The standard of proof at the hearing on the new petition shall be the standard specified in section 253B.12, subdivision 4.

Sec. 66.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.14, is amended to read:

253B.14 TRANSFER OF COMMITTED PERSONS.

The commissioner may transfer any committed person, other than a person committed as mentally ill and a person who has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public, or as a sexually dangerous person or as a sexual psychopathic personality, from one regional state-operated treatment center program to any other state-operated treatment facility under the commissioner's jurisdiction which is program capable of providing proper care and treatment. When a committed person is transferred from one state-operated treatment facility program to another, written notice shall be given to the committing court, the county attorney, the patient's counsel, and to the person's parent, health care agent, or spouse or, if none is known, to an interested person, and the designated agency.

Sec. 67.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.141, is amended to read:

253B.141 AUTHORITY TO DETAIN AND TRANSPORT A MISSING PATIENT.

Subdivision 1.

Report of absence.

(a) If a patient committed under this chapter or detained in a treatment facility or state-operated treatment program under a judicial hold is absent without authorization, and either: (1) does not return voluntarily within 72 hours of the time the unauthorized absence began; or (2) is considered by the head of the treatment facility or program to be a danger to self or others, then the head of the treatment facility or program shall report the absence to the local law enforcement agency. The head of the treatment facility or program shall also notify the committing court that the patient is absent and that the absence has been reported to the local law enforcement agency. The committing court may issue an order directing the law enforcement agency to transport the patient to an appropriate treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program.

(b) Upon receiving a report that a patient subject to this section is absent without authorization, the local law enforcement agency shall enter information on the patient into the missing persons file of the National Crime Information Center computer according to the missing persons practices.

Subd. 2.

Apprehension; return to facility or program.

(a) Upon receiving the report of absence from the head of the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program or the committing court, a patient may be apprehended and held by a peace officer in any jurisdiction pending return to the facility or program from which the patient is absent without authorization. A patient may also be returned to any facility operated by the commissioner state-operated treatment program or any other treatment facility or community-based treatment program willing to accept the person. A person who is mentally ill has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public and detained under this subdivision may be held in a jail or lockup only if:

(1) there is no other feasible place of detention for the patient;

(2) the detention is for less than 24 hours; and

(3) there are protections in place, including segregation of the patient, to ensure the safety of the patient.

(b) If a patient is detained under this subdivision, the head of the treatment facility or program from which the patient is absent shall arrange to pick up the patient within 24 hours of the time detention was begun and shall be responsible for securing transportation for the patient to the facility or program. The expense of detaining and transporting a patient shall be the responsibility of the treatment facility or program from which the patient is absent. The expense of detaining and transporting a patient to a state-operated treatment facility operated by the Department of Human Services program shall be paid by the commissioner unless paid by the patient or persons on behalf of the patient.

Subd. 3.

Notice of apprehension.

Immediately after an absent patient is located, the head of the treatment facility or program from which the patient is absent, or the law enforcement agency that located or returned the absent patient, shall notify the law enforcement agency that first received the absent patient report under this section and that agency shall cancel the missing persons entry from the National Crime Information Center computer.

Sec. 68.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.15, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Provisional discharge.

(a) The head of the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program may provisionally discharge any patient without discharging the commitment, unless the patient was found by the committing court to be a person who is mentally ill and has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public, or a sexually dangerous person, or a sexual psychopathic personality.

(b) When a patient committed to the commissioner becomes ready for provisional discharge before being placed in a state-operated treatment program, the head of the treatment facility or community-based treatment program where the patient is placed pending transfer to the commissioner may provisionally discharge the patient pursuant to this subdivision.

(c) Each patient released on provisional discharge shall have a written aftercare provisional discharge plan developed with input from the patient and the designated agency which specifies the services and treatment to be provided as part of the aftercare provisional discharge plan, the financial resources available to pay for the services specified, the expected period of provisional discharge, the precise goals for the granting of a final discharge, and conditions or restrictions on the patient during the period of the provisional discharge. The aftercare provisional discharge plan shall be provided to the patient, the patient's attorney, and the designated agency.

(d) The aftercare provisional discharge plan shall be reviewed on a quarterly basis by the patient, designated agency and other appropriate persons. The aftercare provisional discharge plan shall contain the grounds upon which a provisional discharge may be revoked. The provisional discharge shall terminate on the date specified in the plan unless specific action is taken to revoke or extend it.

Sec. 69.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.15, subdivision 1a, is amended to read:

Subd. 1a.

Representative of designated agency.

Before a provisional discharge is granted, a representative of the designated agency must be identified to ensure continuity of care by being involved with the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program and the patient prior to the provisional discharge. The representative of the designated agency shall coordinate plans for and monitor the patient's aftercare program. When the patient is on a provisional discharge, the representative of the designated agency shall provide the treatment report to the court required under section 253B.12, subdivision 1.

Sec. 70.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.15, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Revocation of provisional discharge.

(a) The designated agency may revoke initiate with the court a revocation of a provisional discharge if revocation is the least restrictive alternative and either:

(1) the patient has violated material conditions of the provisional discharge, and the violation creates the need to return the patient to a more restrictive setting or more intensive community services; or

(2) there exists a serious likelihood that the safety of the patient or others will be jeopardized, in that either the patient's need for food, clothing, shelter, or medical care are not being met, or will not be met in the near future, or the patient has attempted or threatened to seriously physically harm self or others; and.

(3) revocation is the least restrictive alternative available.

(b) Any interested person may request that the designated agency revoke the patient's provisional discharge. Any person making a request shall provide the designated agency with a written report setting forth the specific facts, including witnesses, dates and locations, supporting a revocation, demonstrating that every effort has been made to avoid revocation and that revocation is the least restrictive alternative available.

Sec. 71.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.15, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Procedure; notice.

Revocation shall be commenced by the designated agency's written notice of intent to revoke provisional discharge given or sent to the patient, the patient's attorney, and the treatment facility or program from which the patient was provisionally discharged, and the current community services provider. The notice shall set forth the grounds upon which the intention to revoke is based, and shall inform the patient of the rights of a patient under this chapter.

Sec. 72.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.15, subdivision 3a, is amended to read:

Subd. 3a.

Report to the court.

Within 48 hours, excluding weekends and legal holidays, of giving notice to the patient, the designated agency shall file with the court a copy of the notice and a report setting forth the specific facts, including witnesses, dates and locations, which (1) support revocation, (2) demonstrate that revocation is the least restrictive alternative available, and (3) show that specific efforts were made to avoid revocation. The designated agency shall provide copies of the report to the patient, the patient's attorney, the county attorney, and the treatment facility or program from which the patient was provisionally discharged within 48 hours of giving notice to the patient under subdivision 3.

Sec. 73.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.15, subdivision 3b, is amended to read:

Subd. 3b.

Review.

The patient or patient's attorney may request judicial review of the intended revocation by filing a petition for review and an affidavit with the committing court. The affidavit shall state specific grounds for opposing the revocation. If the patient does not file a petition for review within five days of receiving the notice under subdivision 3, revocation of the provisional discharge is final and the court, without hearing, may order the patient into a treatment facility or program from which the patient was provisionally discharged, another treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program that consents to receive the patient, or more intensive community treatment. If the patient files a petition for review, the court shall review the petition and determine whether a genuine issue exists as to the propriety of the revocation. The burden of proof is on the designated agency to show that no genuine issue exists as to the propriety of the revocation. If the court finds that no genuine issue exists as to the propriety of the revocation, the revocation of the provisional discharge is final.

Sec. 74.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.15, subdivision 3c, is amended to read:

Subd. 3c.

Hearing.

(a) If the court finds under subdivision 3b that a genuine issue exists as to the propriety of the revocation, the court shall hold a hearing on the petition within three days after the patient files the petition. The court may continue the review hearing for an additional five days upon any party's showing of good cause. At the hearing, the burden of proof is on the designated agency to show a factual basis for the revocation. At the conclusion of the hearing, the court shall make specific findings of fact. The court shall affirm the revocation if it finds:

(1) a factual basis for revocation due to:

(i) a violation of the material conditions of the provisional discharge that creates a need for the patient to return to a more restrictive setting or more intensive community services; or

(ii) a probable danger of harm to the patient or others if the provisional discharge is not revoked; and

(2) that revocation is the least restrictive alternative available.

(b) If the court does not affirm the revocation, the court shall order the patient returned to provisional discharge status.

Sec. 75.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.15, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Return to facility.

When the designated agency gives or sends notice of the intent to revoke a patient's provisional discharge, it may also apply to the committing court for an order directing that the patient be returned to a the facility or program from which the patient was provisionally discharged or another treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program that consents to receive the patient. The court may order the patient returned to a facility or program prior to a review hearing only upon finding that immediate return to a facility is necessary because there is a serious likelihood that the safety of the patient or others will be jeopardized, in that (1) the patient's need for food, clothing, shelter, or medical care is not being met, or will not be met in the near future, or (2) the patient has attempted or threatened to seriously harm self or others. If a voluntary return is not arranged, the head of the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program may request a health officer or a peace officer to return the patient to the treatment facility or program from which the patient was released or to any other treatment facility which, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program that consents to receive the patient. If necessary, the head of the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program may request the committing court to direct a health officer or peace officer in the county where the patient is located to return the patient to the treatment facility or program or to another treatment facility which, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program that consents to receive the patient. The expense of returning the patient to a regional state-operated treatment center program shall be paid by the commissioner unless paid by the patient or the patient's relatives. If the court orders the patient to return to the treatment facility or program, or if a health officer or peace officer returns the patient to the treatment facility or program, and the patient wants judicial review of the revocation, the patient or the patient's attorney must file the petition for review and affidavit required under subdivision 3b within 14 days of receipt of the notice of the intent to revoke.

Sec. 76.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.15, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7.

Modification and extension of provisional discharge.

(a) A provisional discharge may be modified upon agreement of the parties.

(b) A provisional discharge may be extended only in those circumstances where the patient has not achieved the goals set forth in the provisional discharge plan or continues to need the supervision or assistance provided by an extension of the provisional discharge. In determining whether the provisional discharge is to be extended, the head of the facility designated agency shall consider the willingness and ability of the patient to voluntarily obtain needed care and treatment.

(c) The designated agency shall recommend extension of a provisional discharge only after a preliminary conference with the patient and other appropriate persons. The patient shall be given the opportunity to object or make suggestions for alternatives to extension.

(d) (c) The designated agency must provide any recommendation for proposed extension shall be made in writing to the head of the facility and to the patient and the patient's attorney at least 30 days prior to the expiration of the provisional discharge unless the patient cannot be located or is unavailable to receive the notice. The written recommendation submitted proposal for extension shall include: the specific grounds for recommending proposing the extension, the date of the preliminary conference and results, the anniversary date of the provisional discharge, the termination date of the provisional discharge, and the proposed length of extension. If the grounds for recommending proposing the extension occur less than 30 days before its expiration, the designated agency must submit the written recommendation shall occur proposal for extension as soon as practicable.

(e) The head of the facility (d) The designated agency shall extend a provisional discharge only after providing the patient an opportunity for a meeting to object or make suggestions for alternatives to an extension. The designated agency shall issue provide a written decision to the patient and the patient's attorney regarding extension within five days after receiving the recommendation from the designated agency the patient's input or after holding a meeting with the patient or after the patient has declined to provide input or participate in the meeting. The designated agency may seek input from the community-based treatment team or other persons the patient chooses.

Sec. 77.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.15, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 8a.

Provisional discharge extension.

If the provisional discharge extends until the end of the period of commitment and, before the commitment expires, the court extends the commitment under section 253B.12 or issues a new commitment order under section 253B.13, the provisional discharge shall continue for the duration of the new or extended period of commitment ordered unless the commitment order provides otherwise or the designated agency revokes the patient's provisional discharge pursuant to this section. To continue the patient's provisional discharge under this subdivision, the designated agency is not required to comply with the procedures in subdivision 7.

Sec. 78.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.15, subdivision 9, is amended to read:

Subd. 9.

Expiration of provisional discharge.

(a) Except as otherwise provided, a provisional discharge is absolute when it expires. If, while on provisional discharge or extended provisional discharge, a patient is discharged as provided in section 253B.16, the discharge shall be absolute.

(b) The designated agency shall give notice of the expiration of the provisional discharge shall be given by the head of the treatment facility to the committing court; the petitioner, if known; the patient's attorney; the county attorney in the county of commitment; the commissioner; and the designated agency facility or program that provisionally discharged the patient.

Sec. 79.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.15, subdivision 10, is amended to read:

Subd. 10.

Voluntary return.

(a) With the consent of the head of the treatment facility or state-operated treatment program, a patient may voluntarily return to inpatient status at the treatment facility as follows:

(1) as a voluntary patient, in which case the patient's commitment is discharged;

(2) as a committed patient, in which case the patient's provisional discharge is voluntarily revoked; or

(3) on temporary return from provisional discharge, in which case both the commitment and the provisional discharge remain in effect.

(b) Prior to readmission, the patient shall be informed of status upon readmission.

Sec. 80.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.16, is amended to read:

253B.16 DISCHARGE OF COMMITTED PERSONS.

Subdivision 1.

Date.

The head of a treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program shall discharge any patient admitted as a person who is mentally ill or chemically dependent, or a person with a who poses a risk of harm due to mental illness, or a person who has a chemical dependency or a developmental disability admitted under Minnesota Rules of Criminal Procedure, rules 20.01 and 20.02, to the secure bed component of the Minnesota extended treatment options when the head of the facility or program certifies that the person is no longer in need of care and treatment under commitment or at the conclusion of any period of time specified in the commitment order, whichever occurs first. The head of a treatment facility or program shall discharge any person admitted as developmentally disabled, except those admitted under Minnesota Rules of Criminal Procedure, rules 20.01 and 20.02, to the secure bed component of the Minnesota extended treatment options, a person with a developmental disability when that person's screening team has determined, under section 256B.092, subdivision 8, that the person's needs can be met by services provided in the community and a plan has been developed in consultation with the interdisciplinary team to place the person in the available community services.

Subd. 2.

Notification of discharge.

Prior to the discharge or provisional discharge of any committed person patient, the head of the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program shall notify the designated agency and the patient's spouse or health care agent, or if there is no spouse or health care agent, then an adult child, or if there is none, the next of kin of the patient, of the proposed discharge. The facility or program shall send the notice shall be sent to the last known address of the person to be notified by certified mail with return receipt. The notice in writing and shall include the following: (1) the proposed date of discharge or provisional discharge; (2) the date, time and place of the meeting of the staff who have been treating the patient to discuss discharge and discharge planning; (3) the fact that the patient will be present at the meeting; and (4) the fact that the next of kin or health care agent may attend that staff meeting and present any information relevant to the discharge of the patient. The notice shall be sent at least one week prior to the date set for the meeting.

Sec. 81.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.17, is amended to read:

253B.17 RELEASE; JUDICIAL DETERMINATION.

Subdivision 1.

Petition.

Any patient, except one committed as a sexually dangerous person or a person with a sexual psychopathic personality or as a person who is mentally ill and has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public as provided in section 253B.18, subdivision 3, or any interested person may petition the committing court or the court to which venue has been transferred for an order that the patient is not in need of continued care and treatment under commitment or for an order that an individual is no longer a person who is mentally ill, developmentally disabled, or chemically dependent who poses a risk of harm due to mental illness, or a person who has a developmental disability or chemical dependency, or for any other relief. A patient committed as a person who is mentally ill or mentally ill and who poses a risk of harm due to mental illness, a person who has a mental illness and is dangerous or to the public, a sexually dangerous person, or a person with a sexual psychopathic personality may petition the committing court or the court to which venue has been transferred for a hearing concerning the administration of neuroleptic medication.

Subd. 2.

Notice of hearing.

Upon the filing of the petition, the court shall fix the time and place for the hearing on it. Ten days' notice of the hearing shall be given to the county attorney, the patient, patient's counsel, the person who filed the initial commitment petition, the head of the treatment facility or program to which the person is committed, and other persons as the court directs. Any person may oppose the petition.

Subd. 3.

Court examiners.

The court shall appoint an a court examiner and, at the patient's request, shall appoint a second court examiner of the patient's choosing to be paid for by the county at a rate of compensation to be fixed by the court. Unless otherwise agreed by the parties, the examiners a court examiner shall file a report with the court not less than 48 hours prior to the hearing under this section.

Subd. 4.

Evidence.

The patient, patient's counsel, the petitioner, and the county attorney shall be entitled to be present at the hearing and to present and cross-examine witnesses, including court examiners. The court may hear any relevant testimony and evidence which is offered at the hearing.

Subd. 5.

Order.

Upon completion of the hearing, the court shall enter an order stating its findings and decision and mail it the order to the head of the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program.

Sec. 82.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.18, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Procedure.

(a) Upon the filing of a petition alleging that a proposed patient is a person who is mentally ill and has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public, the court shall hear the petition as provided in sections 253B.07 and 253B.08. If the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that the proposed patient is a person who is mentally ill and has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public, it shall commit the person to a secure treatment facility or to a treatment facility or state-operated treatment program willing to accept the patient under commitment. The court shall commit the patient to a secure treatment facility unless the patient establishes or others establish by clear and convincing evidence that a less restrictive state-operated treatment program or treatment program facility is available that is consistent with the patient's treatment needs and the requirements of public safety. In any case where the petition was filed immediately following the acquittal of the proposed patient for a crime against the person pursuant to a verdict of not guilty by reason of mental illness, the verdict constitutes evidence that the proposed patient is a person who is mentally ill and has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public within the meaning of this section. The proposed patient has the burden of going forward in the presentation of evidence. The standard of proof remains as required by this chapter. Upon commitment, admission procedures shall be carried out pursuant to section 253B.10.

(b) Once a patient is admitted to a treatment facility or state-operated treatment program pursuant to a commitment under this subdivision, treatment must begin regardless of whether a review hearing will be held under subdivision 2.

Sec. 83.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.18, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Review; hearing.

(a) A written treatment report shall be filed by the treatment facility or state-operated treatment program with the committing court within 60 days after commitment. If the person is in the custody of the commissioner of corrections when the initial commitment is ordered under subdivision 1, the written treatment report must be filed within 60 days after the person is admitted to a secure the state-operated treatment program or treatment facility. The court shall hold a hearing to make a final determination as to whether the person patient should remain committed as a person who is mentally ill and has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public. The hearing shall be held within the earlier of 14 days of the court's receipt of the written treatment report, or within 90 days of the date of initial commitment or admission, unless otherwise agreed by the parties.

(b) The court may, with agreement of the county attorney and the patient's attorney for the patient:

(1) waive the review hearing under this subdivision and immediately order an indeterminate commitment under subdivision 3; or

(2) continue the review hearing for up to one year.

(c) If the court finds that the patient should be committed as a person who is mentally ill who poses a risk of harm due to mental illness, but not as a person who is mentally ill and has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public, the court may commit the person patient as a person who is mentally ill who poses a risk of harm due to mental illness and the person shall be deemed court shall deem the patient not to have been found to be dangerous to the public for the purposes of subdivisions 4a to 15. Failure of the treatment facility or state-operated treatment program to provide the required treatment report at the end of the 60-day period shall not result in automatic discharge of the patient.

Sec. 84.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.18, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Indeterminate commitment.

If the court finds at the final determination hearing held pursuant to subdivision 2 that the patient continues to be a person who is mentally ill and has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public, then the court shall order commitment of the proposed patient for an indeterminate period of time. After a final determination that a patient is a person who is mentally ill and has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public, the patient shall be transferred, provisionally discharged or discharged, only as provided in this section.

Sec. 85.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.18, subdivision 4a, is amended to read:

Subd. 4a.

Release on pass; notification.

A patient who has been committed as a person who is mentally ill and has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public and who is confined at a secure treatment facility or has been transferred out of a state-operated services secure treatment facility according to section 253B.18, subdivision 6, shall not be released on a pass unless the pass is part of a pass plan that has been approved by the medical director of the secure treatment facility. The pass plan must have a specific therapeutic purpose consistent with the treatment plan, must be established for a specific period of time, and must have specific levels of liberty delineated. The county case manager must be invited to participate in the development of the pass plan. At least ten days prior to a determination on the plan, the medical director shall notify the designated agency, the committing court, the county attorney of the county of commitment, an interested person, the local law enforcement agency where the facility is located, the county attorney and the local law enforcement agency in the location where the pass is to occur, the petitioner, and the petitioner's counsel of the plan, the nature of the passes proposed, and their right to object to the plan. If any notified person objects prior to the proposed date of implementation, the person shall have an opportunity to appear, personally or in writing, before the medical director, within ten days of the objection, to present grounds for opposing the plan. The pass plan shall not be implemented until the objecting person has been furnished that opportunity. Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to give a patient an affirmative right to a pass plan.

Sec. 86.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.18, subdivision 4b, is amended to read:

Subd. 4b.

Pass-eligible status; notification.

(a) The following patients committed to a secure treatment facility shall not be placed on pass-eligible status unless that status has been approved by the medical director of the secure treatment facility:

(a) (1) a patient who has been committed as a person who is mentally ill and has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public and who:

(1) (i) was found incompetent to proceed to trial for a felony or was found not guilty by reason of mental illness of a felony immediately prior to the filing of the commitment petition;

(2) (ii) was convicted of a felony immediately prior to or during commitment as a person who is mentally ill and has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public; or

(3) (iii) is subject to a commitment to the commissioner of corrections; and

(b) (2) a patient who has been committed as a psychopathic personality, a sexually psychopathic personality, or a sexually dangerous person.

(b) At least ten days prior to a determination on the status, the medical director shall notify the committing court, the county attorney of the county of commitment, the designated agency, an interested person, the petitioner, and the petitioner's counsel of the proposed status, and their right to request review by the special review board. If within ten days of receiving notice any notified person requests review by filing a notice of objection with the commissioner and the head of the secure treatment facility, a hearing shall be held before the special review board. The proposed status shall not be implemented unless it receives a favorable recommendation by a majority of the board and approval by the commissioner. The order of the commissioner is appealable as provided in section 253B.19.

(c) Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to give a patient an affirmative right to seek pass-eligible status from the special review board.

Sec. 87.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.18, subdivision 4c, is amended to read:

Subd. 4c.

Special review board.

(a) The commissioner shall establish one or more panels of a special review board. The board shall consist of three members experienced in the field of mental illness. One member of each special review board panel shall be a psychiatrist or a doctoral level psychologist with forensic experience and one member shall be an attorney. No member shall be affiliated with the Department of Human Services. The special review board shall meet at least every six months and at the call of the commissioner. It shall hear and consider all petitions for a reduction in custody or to appeal a revocation of provisional discharge. A "reduction in custody" means transfer from a secure treatment facility, discharge, and provisional discharge. Patients may be transferred by the commissioner between secure treatment facilities without a special review board hearing.

Members of the special review board shall receive compensation and reimbursement for expenses as established by the commissioner.

(b) The special review board must review each denied petition under subdivision 5 for barriers and obstacles preventing the patient from progressing in treatment. Based on the cases before the board in the previous year, the special review board shall provide to the commissioner an annual summation of the barriers to treatment progress, and recommendations to achieve the common goal of making progress in treatment.

(c) A petition filed by a person committed as mentally ill and a person who has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public under this section must be heard as provided in subdivision 5 and, as applicable, subdivision 13. A petition filed by a person committed as a sexual psychopathic personality or as a sexually dangerous person under chapter 253D, or committed as both mentally ill and a person who has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public under this section and as a sexual psychopathic personality or as a sexually dangerous person must be heard as provided in section 253D.27.

Sec. 88.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.18, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5.

Petition; notice of hearing; attendance; order.

(a) A petition for a reduction in custody or revocation of provisional discharge shall be filed with the commissioner and may be filed by the patient or by the head of the treatment facility or state-operated treatment program to which the person was committed or has been transferred. A patient may not petition the special review board for six months following commitment under subdivision 3 or following the final disposition of any previous petition and subsequent appeal by the patient. The head of the state-operated treatment program or head of the treatment facility must schedule a hearing before the special review board for any patient who has not appeared before the special review board in the previous three years, and schedule a hearing at least every three years thereafter. The medical director may petition at any time.

(b) Fourteen days prior to the hearing, the committing court, the county attorney of the county of commitment, the designated agency, interested person, the petitioner, and the petitioner's counsel shall be given written notice by the commissioner of the time and place of the hearing before the special review board. Only those entitled to statutory notice of the hearing or those administratively required to attend may be present at the hearing. The patient may designate interested persons to receive notice by providing the names and addresses to the commissioner at least 21 days before the hearing. The board shall provide the commissioner with written findings of fact and recommendations within 21 days of the hearing. The commissioner shall issue an order no later than 14 days after receiving the recommendation of the special review board. A copy of the order shall be mailed to every person entitled to statutory notice of the hearing within five days after it the order is signed. No order by the commissioner shall be effective sooner than 30 days after the order is signed, unless the county attorney, the patient, and the commissioner agree that it may become effective sooner.

(c) The special review board shall hold a hearing on each petition prior to making its recommendation to the commissioner. The special review board proceedings are not contested cases as defined in chapter 14. Any person or agency receiving notice that submits documentary evidence to the special review board prior to the hearing shall also provide copies to the patient, the patient's counsel, the county attorney of the county of commitment, the case manager, and the commissioner.

(d) Prior to the final decision by the commissioner, the special review board may be reconvened to consider events or circumstances that occurred subsequent to the hearing.

(e) In making their recommendations and order, the special review board and commissioner must consider any statements received from victims under subdivision 5a.

Sec. 89.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.18, subdivision 5a, is amended to read:

Subd. 5a.

Victim notification of petition and release; right to submit statement.

(a) As used in this subdivision:

(1) "crime" has the meaning given to "violent crime" in section 609.1095, and includes criminal sexual conduct in the fifth degree and offenses within the definition of "crime against the person" in section 253B.02, subdivision 4a, and also includes offenses listed in section 253D.02, subdivision 8, paragraph (b), regardless of whether they are sexually motivated;

(2) "victim" means a person who has incurred loss or harm as a result of a crime the behavior for which forms the basis for a commitment under this section or chapter 253D; and

(3) "convicted" and "conviction" have the meanings given in section 609.02, subdivision 5, and also include juvenile court adjudications, findings under Minnesota Rules of Criminal Procedure, rule 20.02, that the elements of a crime have been proved, and findings in commitment cases under this section or chapter 253D that an act or acts constituting a crime occurred.

(b) A county attorney who files a petition to commit a person under this section or chapter 253D shall make a reasonable effort to provide prompt notice of filing the petition to any victim of a crime for which the person was convicted. In addition, the county attorney shall make a reasonable effort to promptly notify the victim of the resolution of the petition.

(c) Before provisionally discharging, discharging, granting pass-eligible status, approving a pass plan, or otherwise permanently or temporarily releasing a person committed under this section from a state-operated treatment program or treatment facility, the head of the state-operated treatment program or head of the treatment facility shall make a reasonable effort to notify any victim of a crime for which the person was convicted that the person may be discharged or released and that the victim has a right to submit a written statement regarding decisions of the medical director, special review board, or commissioner with respect to the person. To the extent possible, the notice must be provided at least 14 days before any special review board hearing or before a determination on a pass plan. Notwithstanding section 611A.06, subdivision 4, the commissioner shall provide the judicial appeal panel with victim information in order to comply with the provisions of this section. The judicial appeal panel shall ensure that the data on victims remains private as provided for in section 611A.06, subdivision 4.

(d) This subdivision applies only to victims who have requested notification through the Department of Corrections electronic victim notification system, or by contacting, in writing, the county attorney in the county where the conviction for the crime occurred. A request for notice under this subdivision received by the commissioner of corrections through the Department of Corrections electronic victim notification system shall be promptly forwarded to the prosecutorial authority with jurisdiction over the offense to which the notice relates or, following commitment, the head of the state-operated treatment program or head of the treatment facility. A county attorney who receives a request for notification under this paragraph following commitment shall promptly forward the request to the commissioner of human services.

(e) The rights under this subdivision are in addition to rights available to a victim under chapter 611A. This provision does not give a victim all the rights of a "notified person" or a person "entitled to statutory notice" under subdivision 4a, 4b, or 5 or section 253D.14.

Sec. 90.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.18, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Transfer.

(a) A patient who is mentally ill and a person who has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public shall not be transferred out of a secure treatment facility unless it appears to the satisfaction of the commissioner, after a hearing and favorable recommendation by a majority of the special review board, that the transfer is appropriate. Transfer may be to other regional centers under the commissioner's control another state-operated treatment program. In those instances where a commitment also exists to the Department of Corrections, transfer may be to a facility designated by the commissioner of corrections.

(b) The following factors must be considered in determining whether a transfer is appropriate:

(1) the person's clinical progress and present treatment needs;

(2) the need for security to accomplish continuing treatment;

(3) the need for continued institutionalization;

(4) which facility can best meet the person's needs; and

(5) whether transfer can be accomplished with a reasonable degree of safety for the public.

Sec. 91.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.18, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7.

Provisional discharge.

(a) A patient who is mentally ill and a person who has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public shall not be provisionally discharged unless it appears to the satisfaction of the commissioner, after a hearing and a favorable recommendation by a majority of the special review board, that the patient is capable of making an acceptable adjustment to open society.

(b) The following factors are to be considered in determining whether a provisional discharge shall be recommended: (1) whether the patient's course of hospitalization and present mental status indicate there is no longer a need for treatment and supervision in the patient's current treatment setting; and (2) whether the conditions of the provisional discharge plan will provide a reasonable degree of protection to the public and will enable the patient to adjust successfully to the community.

Sec. 92.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.18, subdivision 8, is amended to read:

Subd. 8.

Provisional discharge plan.

A provisional discharge plan shall be developed, implemented, and monitored by the designated agency in conjunction with the patient, the treatment facility or state-operated treatment program to which the person is committed, and other appropriate persons. The designated agency shall, at least quarterly, review the provisional discharge plan with the patient and submit a written report to the commissioner and the treatment facility or program concerning the patient's status and compliance with each term of the provisional discharge plan.

Sec. 93.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.18, subdivision 10, is amended to read:

Subd. 10.

Provisional discharge; revocation.

(a) The head of the treatment facility or state-operated treatment program from which the person was provisionally discharged may revoke a provisional discharge if any of the following grounds exist:

(i) the patient has departed from the conditions of the provisional discharge plan;

(ii) the patient is exhibiting signs of a mental illness which may require in-hospital evaluation or treatment; or

(iii) the patient is exhibiting behavior which may be dangerous to self or others.

(b) Revocation shall be commenced by a notice of intent to revoke provisional discharge, which shall be served upon the patient, patient's counsel, and the designated agency. The notice shall set forth the grounds upon which the intention to revoke is based, and shall inform the patient of the rights of a patient under this chapter.

(c) In all nonemergency situations, prior to revoking a provisional discharge, the head of the treatment facility or program shall obtain a revocation report from the designated agency outlining the specific reasons for recommending the revocation, including but not limited to the specific facts upon which the revocation recommendation is based.

(d) The patient must be provided a copy of the revocation report and informed orally and in writing of the rights of a patient under this section.

Sec. 94.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.18, subdivision 11, is amended to read:

Subd. 11.

Exceptions.

If an emergency exists, the head of the treatment facility or state-operated treatment program may revoke the provisional discharge and, either orally or in writing, order that the patient be immediately returned to the treatment facility or program. In emergency cases, a revocation report documenting reasons for revocation shall be submitted by the designated agency within seven days after the patient is returned to the treatment facility or program.

Sec. 95.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.18, subdivision 12, is amended to read:

Subd. 12.

Return of patient.

After revocation of a provisional discharge or if the patient is absent without authorization, the head of the treatment facility or state-operated treatment program may request the patient to return to the treatment facility or program voluntarily. The head of the treatment facility or state-operated treatment program may request a health officer, a welfare officer, or a peace officer to return the patient to the treatment facility or program. If a voluntary return is not arranged, the head of the treatment facility or state-operated treatment program shall inform the committing court of the revocation or absence and the court shall direct a health or peace officer in the county where the patient is located to return the patient to the treatment facility or program or to another state-operated treatment program or to another treatment facility willing to accept the patient. The expense of returning the patient to a regional state-operated treatment center program shall be paid by the commissioner unless paid by the patient or other persons on the patient's behalf.

Sec. 96.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.18, subdivision 14, is amended to read:

Subd. 14.

Voluntary readmission.

(a) With the consent of the head of the treatment facility or state-operated treatment program, a patient may voluntarily return from provisional discharge for a period of up to 30 days, or up to 60 days with the consent of the designated agency. If the patient is not returned to provisional discharge status within 60 days, the provisional discharge is revoked. Within 15 days of receiving notice of the change in status, the patient may request a review of the matter before the special review board. The board may recommend a return to a provisional discharge status.

(b) The treatment facility or state-operated treatment program is not required to petition for a further review by the special review board unless the patient's return to the community results in substantive change to the existing provisional discharge plan. All the terms and conditions of the provisional discharge order shall remain unchanged if the patient is released again.

Sec. 97.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.18, subdivision 15, is amended to read:

Subd. 15.

Discharge.

(a) A patient who is mentally ill and a person who has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public shall not be discharged unless it appears to the satisfaction of the commissioner, after a hearing and a favorable recommendation by a majority of the special review board, that the patient is capable of making an acceptable adjustment to open society, is no longer dangerous to the public, and is no longer in need of treatment and supervision.

(b) In determining whether a discharge shall be recommended, the special review board and commissioner shall consider whether specific conditions exist to provide a reasonable degree of protection to the public and to assist the patient in adjusting to the community. If the desired conditions do not exist, the discharge shall not be granted.

Sec. 98.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.19, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Petition; hearing.

(a) A person patient committed as mentally ill and a person who has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public under section 253B.18, or the county attorney of the county from which the person patient was committed or the county of financial responsibility, may petition the judicial appeal panel for a rehearing and reconsideration of a decision by the commissioner under section 253B.18, subdivision 5. The judicial appeal panel must not consider petitions for relief other than those considered by the commissioner from which the appeal is taken. The petition must be filed with the supreme court within 30 days after the decision of the commissioner is signed. The hearing must be held within 45 days of the filing of the petition unless an extension is granted for good cause.

(b) For an appeal under paragraph (a), the supreme court shall refer the petition to the chief judge of the judicial appeal panel. The chief judge shall notify the patient, the county attorney of the county of commitment, the designated agency, the commissioner, the head of the treatment facility or program to which the patient was committed, any interested person, and other persons the chief judge designates, of the time and place of the hearing on the petition. The notice shall be given at least 14 days prior to the date of the hearing.

(c) Any person may oppose the petition. The patient, the patient's counsel, the county attorney of the committing county or the county of financial responsibility, and the commissioner shall participate as parties to the proceeding pending before the judicial appeal panel and shall, except when the patient is committed solely as mentally ill and a person who has a mental illness and is dangerous to the public, no later than 20 days before the hearing on the petition, inform the judicial appeal panel and the opposing party in writing whether they support or oppose the petition and provide a summary of facts in support of their position. The judicial appeal panel may appoint court examiners and may adjourn the hearing from time to time. It shall hear and receive all relevant testimony and evidence and make a record of all proceedings. The patient, the patient's counsel, and the county attorney of the committing county or the county of financial responsibility have the right to be present and may present and cross-examine all witnesses and offer a factual and legal basis in support of their positions. The petitioning party seeking discharge or provisional discharge bears the burden of going forward with the evidence, which means presenting a prima facie case with competent evidence to show that the person is entitled to the requested relief. If the petitioning party has met this burden, the party opposing discharge or provisional discharge bears the burden of proof by clear and convincing evidence that the discharge or provisional discharge should be denied. A party seeking transfer under section 253B.18, subdivision 6, must establish by a preponderance of the evidence that the transfer is appropriate.

Sec. 99.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.20, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1.

Notice to court.

When a committed person is discharged, provisionally discharged, or transferred to another treatment facility, or partially hospitalized state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program, or when the person patient dies, is absent without authorization, or is returned, the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program having custody of the patient shall notify the committing court, the county attorney, and the patient's attorney.

Sec. 100.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.20, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2.

Necessities.

The head of the state-operated treatment facility program shall make necessary arrangements at the expense of the state to insure that no patient is discharged or provisionally discharged without suitable clothing. The head of the state-operated treatment facility program shall, if necessary, provide the patient with a sufficient sum of money to secure transportation home, or to another destination of the patient's choice, if the destination is located within a reasonable distance of the state-operated treatment facility program. The commissioner shall establish procedures by rule to help the patient receive all public assistance benefits provided by state or federal law to which the patient is entitled by residence and circumstances. The rule shall be uniformly applied in all counties. All counties shall provide temporary relief whenever necessary to meet the intent of this subdivision.

Sec. 101.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.20, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3.

Notice to designated agency.

The head of the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program, upon the provisional discharge of any committed person, shall notify the designated agency before the patient leaves the treatment facility or program. Whenever possible the notice shall be given at least one week before the patient is to leave the facility or program.

Sec. 102.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.20, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4.

Aftercare services.

Prior to the date of discharge or provisional discharge of any committed person, the designated agency of the county of financial responsibility, in cooperation with the head of the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program, and the patient's physician mental health professional, if notified pursuant to subdivision 6, shall establish a continuing plan of aftercare services for the patient including a plan for medical and psychiatric treatment, nursing care, vocational assistance, and other assistance the patient needs. The designated agency shall provide case management services, supervise and assist the patient in finding employment, suitable shelter, and adequate medical and psychiatric treatment, and aid in the patient's readjustment to the community.

Sec. 103.

Minnesota Statutes 2018, section 253B.20, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6.

Notice to physician mental health professional.

The head of the treatment facility, state-operated treatment program, or community-based treatment program shall notify the physician mental health professional of any committed person at the time of the patient's discharge or provisional discharge, unless the patient objects to the notice.