The bill seeks to modernize Minnesota's mental health statutes by replacing outdated terminology, specifically substituting "emotional disturbance" with "mental illness" or "serious mental illness" across various sections, including 62Q.527, 121A.61, and 142G.02. This change aims to align the legal language with contemporary mental health standards and improve clarity in the definitions and coverage requirements for mental health services. Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of early intervention in educational settings, outlines the responsibilities of case managers, and ensures that health plans provide adequate coverage for antipsychotic medications, thereby reducing financial burdens on patients when changing health plans.

Furthermore, the bill enhances the qualifications and training requirements for case managers and associates, allowing individuals with relevant experience to qualify for these roles while also establishing supervision and continuing education mandates. It also introduces provisions for children's mental health services, ensuring that county boards develop appropriate treatment plans and coordinate services effectively. The legislation aims to create a more integrated mental health service system, improve access to necessary services, and foster better outcomes for individuals with mental illnesses, particularly children and families affected by mental health issues.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 62Q.527, 121A.61, 128C.02, 142G.02, 142G.27, 142G.42, 245.462, 245.4682, 245.4835, 245.4863, 245.487, 245.4871, 245.4873, 245.4874, 245.4875, 245.4876, 245.4877, 245.488, 245.4881, 245.4882, 245.4884, 245.4885, 245.4889, 245.4907, 245.491, 245.492, 245.697, 245.814, 245.826, 245.91, 245.92, 245.94, 245A.03, 245A.26, 245I.05, 245I.11, 246C.12, 252.27, 256B.02, 256B.055, 256B.0616, 256B.0757, 256B.0943, 256B.0945, 256B.0946, 256B.0947, 256B.69, 256B.77, 260B.157, 260C.007, 260C.157, 260C.201, 260C.301, 260D.01, 260D.02, 260D.03, 260D.04, 260D.06, 260D.07, 260E.11, 295.50