This bill seeks to eliminate parental contributions for the TEFRA (Tax Equity for the Handicapped Act) program, which provides medical assistance to children with disabilities. It amends several sections of the Minnesota Statutes, specifically removing the financial responsibilities of parents or guardians to counties for their children's care, except for certain allowances. The bill repeals multiple subdivisions related to these parental financial responsibilities under section 252.27 and introduces new language clarifying that parents or guardians are not liable for costs incurred by counties. Additionally, it makes conforming changes to various statutes to ensure that the focus remains on providing necessary services without imposing financial burdens on families.

Moreover, the bill updates definitions and responsibilities related to the treatment and care of individuals with disabilities, enhancing the planning and delivery of services for individuals with developmental disabilities. It introduces new definitions for "local system needs planning" and "related condition," mandates counties to assess the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities every two years, and modifies eligibility criteria for targeted case management services. The bill also outlines provisions regarding parental contributions when insurance coverage is available, including a potential increase in contribution amounts and a reduction in contributions under specific conditions. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the legal framework surrounding the care of children with disabilities in Minnesota while ensuring that their needs are systematically assessed and met.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 252.27, 245.821, 245.825, 246.511, 252.282, 256B.02, 256B.0924, 256B.77, 447.42, 252.021