This bill seeks to strengthen child protection measures in Minnesota by revising the structure and processes of the child mortality review panel and introducing a new critical incident public information portal. Key changes include the formation of a multidisciplinary local child mortality review team in each county, which will collaborate with the state panel to conduct comprehensive reviews of child fatalities and near fatalities, particularly those occurring in licensed facilities and not attributed to natural causes. The bill specifies the composition of the child mortality review panel, which will consist of various stakeholders, including commissioners, judges, and child protection professionals, and mandates thorough reviews to identify systemic issues and recommend policy improvements.

Additionally, the bill requires the commissioner to publish an annual report starting December 15, 2026, detailing de-identified summary data, conclusions, and recommendations from the child mortality review panel. It also emphasizes the need for training and support for local review teams and the development of the critical incident public information portal, which will provide real-time updates on incidents. The bill repeals certain existing statutes and rules related to child mortality review processes, specifically Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 256.01, subdivisions 12 and 12a, and Minnesota Rules, part 9560.0232, subpart 5, effective July 1, 2025, to streamline the child protection system and enhance transparency and accountability.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 256.01