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 with the commissioner. 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. An advisory committee will also be created to provide input from stakeholders, with the initial appointment of the commissioner required by July 1, 2025.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the transition of responsibilities from the executive board to the commissioner, which will take effect on the same date. It mandates the removal of references to the executive board in favor of the commissioner in multiple contexts, streamlining governance and enhancing clarity in the administration of treatment programs. The bill also addresses the responsibilities of the commissioner of human services, including monitoring treatment plans and managing financial responsibilities. Overall, the amendments aim to improve the efficiency and focus of direct care and treatment services in Minnesota, ensuring that individual client needs are prioritized in the delivery of care.

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