The bill seeks to enhance behavioral health services in Minnesota by amending existing provisions related to mental and behavioral health care, including service standards, grants for mental health services, and provider certification. Key changes include the introduction of new definitions and requirements for functional assessments, updates to clinical trainee qualifications, and the establishment of a new engagement services pilot grant program aimed at providing culturally responsive early interventions. The bill also removes specific age-related assessment tools and introduces broader criteria for functional assessments, while mandating that treatment teams consist of a minimum number of mental health professionals and outlining new medication administration requirements in children's day treatment settings.

Additionally, the bill revises the criteria for assertive community treatment (ACT) eligibility, allowing individuals who have participated in a first episode of psychosis program to qualify for ACT services immediately, provided they meet specific requirements. It also updates staffing requirements for ACT teams, removes previous stipulations regarding team leader licensure timelines, and emphasizes the need for flexibility in service delivery. The legislation includes provisions for enhancing mental health services for children, establishing a new payment structure for intensive residential treatment services, and expanding the qualifications for provider staff. Overall, the bill aims to improve the quality and accessibility of mental health services across the state, with many provisions set to take effect on January 1, 2025, or upon federal approval.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 245I.10, 245I.11, 245I.20, 245I.23, 256B.0943, 256B.0947
1st Engrossment: 245I.02, 245I.04, 245I.10, 245I.11, 245I.20, 245I.23, 245.462, 256B.0622, 256B.0623, 256B.0624, 256B.0625, 256B.0943, 256B.0947, 144.226, 148F.025, 245G.01, 245G.07, 245G.11, 256I.04, 245.4663, 256B.0757, 256B.76