This bill amends various sections of Minnesota Statutes related to home and community-based waiver services, specifically focusing on the establishment of rates for these services and increasing room and board rates for certain individuals. Key provisions include a requirement for lead agencies to approve final payment rates within 30 business days of receiving necessary data from service providers, with penalties for late approvals. Additionally, the bill introduces a new single-occupancy monthly room and board rate add-on for recipients who cannot live with others, capped at $1,000 per month, and mandates annual increases in room and board rates based on cost-of-living adjustments.

The bill also outlines procedures for requesting rate exceptions for individuals with exceptional needs, requiring lead agencies to act on these requests within 30 days and providing a framework for appeals. It emphasizes the importance of stakeholder consultation and training for county personnel involved in the rate-setting process. Furthermore, the bill directs the commissioner of human services to amend home and community-based services waiver plans to include the repair of property damage caused by individuals receiving services as a covered service. All provisions in the bill are set to take effect on July 1, 2025, or upon federal approval, whichever is later.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 256B.4914, 256I.05