This bill amends the disability benefits provisions for peace officers and firefighters in Minnesota, particularly focusing on psychological conditions. It establishes a Public Safety Officer's Benefit Account, which will require annual financial reports from the commissioner of public safety. To qualify for reimbursement starting January 1, 2024, public employers must provide annual wellness training or an employee assistance program. The bill introduces new definitions and procedures for applying for duty disability benefits related to psychological conditions, mandating that employees complete treatment requirements and submit adequate medical documentation. It also emphasizes the importance of mental health treatment and outlines the responsibilities of both employees and employers in ensuring proper treatment is received and documented.

Additionally, the bill creates a psychological condition treatment account within the Minnesota State Retirement System to fund treatment administration and outlines the reimbursement process for employers covering treatment costs. It specifies that salary and benefits can be extended beyond 30 days if supported by written documentation from a mental health professional. The bill limits the number of times an employee can receive benefits to three times in ten years and emphasizes the confidentiality of health records. It also clarifies that receiving psychological treatment under this act does not affect workers' compensation claims. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2023, with some provisions taking effect on January 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 299A.465, 352B.10, 352B.101, 353.031
1st Engrossment: 299A.42, 299A.465, 352B.10, 352B.101, 353.01, 353.031, 353.335, 353.656