This bill establishes the Department of Direct Care and Treatment, appointing a commissioner to oversee its operations and effectively dissolving the existing Direct Care and Treatment Executive Board. Key amendments to Minnesota Statutes include the insertion of the Department of Direct Care and Treatment in various sections, replacing references to the executive board. The bill outlines the responsibilities of the new commissioner, including managing civilly committed individuals and overseeing state-operated services related to mental health and substance use disorders. It also mandates the creation of an advisory committee to gather input from stakeholders, with the initial appointment of the commissioner required by July 1, 2025.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the transfer of responsibilities from the executive board to the commissioner, ensuring a smooth transition to the new structure. It repeals various sections of existing law related to the executive board and its functions, while also amending statutes to clarify the roles of the commissioners of direct care and treatment and human services. The bill emphasizes the shift in authority by replacing references to the executive board with the commissioner in multiple instances, streamlining governance and enhancing the focus on individual needs in care. Overall, the legislation aims to centralize authority under a dedicated department and commissioner, improving the efficiency of direct care and treatment services in Minnesota.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 10.65, 15.01, 15.06, 246C.01, 246C.015, 246C.02, 246C.04, 246C.07, 246C.09, 246C.091, 15A.0815, 15A.082, 43A.08, 245.021, 245.073, 246.13, 246B.01, 252.021, 252.50, 253.195, 253B.02, 253B.03, 253B.041, 253B.09, 253B.18, 253B.19, 253B.20, 253D.02, 254B.05, 256.045, 256G.09, 352.91, 524.3, 611.57