This bill mandates the establishment of a school-based telehealth program by the commissioner of health in Minnesota, specifically outlined in a new section of the Minnesota Statutes, chapter 145. The program will involve contracting with a single telehealth provider to deliver mental and physical health care services to students in participating school districts. The bill includes detailed definitions of key terms such as "health care provider," "school district," and "telehealth," and sets forth qualifications for telehealth providers, including experience in educational settings and the ability to provide culturally competent care. Additionally, the bill stipulates that participating school districts must ensure that health care services are available at no cost to all students and must cooperate with the commissioner for reporting requirements.

The bill also appropriates $20 million for each of the fiscal years 2026 and 2027 from the general fund to support the telehealth program. It outlines the use of these funds, which include paying the telehealth provider an annual capitation rate per student, reimbursing initial setup costs, and evaluating the program's effectiveness. The commissioner is required to report on the program's impact on student access to health care services every two years, starting January 15, 2027, and school districts must provide necessary information to ensure compliance with the program's requirements. The provisions of this bill are set to take effect on July 1, 2025.