This bill mandates the establishment of a maternal mental health program within health plans and requires the medical assistance program to cover such a program. Specifically, it amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 62A.0411, by adding a subdivision that outlines the requirements for health plans, including the necessity for comprehensive care for pregnant and postpartum individuals, mandatory screenings during pregnancy and the postpartum period, and reimbursement for healthcare professionals for services rendered. Additionally, it prohibits health plans from unreasonably delaying referrals to qualified behavioral health professionals when clinically indicated. The effective date for these provisions is set for January 1, 2026.

Furthermore, the bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 256B.0671, to include a subdivision that mandates medical assistance to cover the maternal mental health program as described in section 62A.0411. It stipulates that medical assistance must adhere to the requirements applicable to health plans, with exceptions that ensure compliance does not hinder federal financial participation or reduce coverage for enrollees. The bill also includes appropriations for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 from the general fund and the health care access fund to support the implementation of the maternal mental health program.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 62A.0411, 256B.69, 256L.12
1st Engrossment: 62A.0411, 256B.0671