This bill amends Minnesota Statutes concerning children's mental health programs and nonemergency medical transportation (NEMT). It introduces provisions that enable grant activities to assist families in accessing mental health services for caregiving. Additionally, it mandates that NEMT providers offer assisted transport to clients aged 20 and younger who qualify for unassisted transport, unless declined by the client or their guardian. A new reimbursement rate structure for NEMT services provided to clients under 21 by certified school bus providers is established, set at 125% of standard rates. The bill also clarifies definitions and requirements for NEMT services, including operating standards for transportation providers and conditions for managed care plans regarding fuel adjustments for NEMT rates, with an effective date of January 1, 2026.

Moreover, the bill updates laws related to children's therapeutic services by adding new definitions and service components, including "transition to community living services," which focuses on maintaining contact between providers and clients, facilitating discharge from institutions, and supporting community integration. It revises the list of covered services to include "children's day treatment" and "transition to community living services," while removing the previous standalone mention of children's day treatment. The bill also appropriates funds for school-linked behavioral health grants for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, aimed at improving access to mental health services for children in educational settings and promoting their overall well-being and community integration.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 245.4901, 256B.0625, 256B.0943