The bill proposes significant amendments to various sections of Minnesota Statutes, focusing on enhancing the regulation and oversight of human services, particularly in relation to background studies, fraud prevention, and child care provider licensing. It introduces new definitions and classifications for data within the welfare system, including the establishment of the Minnesota Competency Attainment Board and forensic navigators. The bill modifies conditions for disclosing private data, particularly concerning law enforcement and fraud investigations, and emphasizes the confidentiality of investigative data. It also outlines new provisions for administrative disqualifications of child care providers, allowing for disqualification without a criminal conviction and prohibiting certain hiring practices related to child care assistance.

Additionally, the bill strengthens accountability measures for providers and vendors by establishing criteria for withholding payments based on credible allegations of fraud and expanding the commissioner’s authority to suspend licenses under specific circumstances. It allows for the use of electronic signatures and clarifies the review process for background studies. The bill also expands the definition of "judicial official" to include employees from the DHS Appeals Division and introduces penalties for illegal remunerations in health care programs. The effective date for many of these changes is set for July 1, 2025, with some provisions taking effect immediately or on August 1, 2025. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the integrity and efficiency of human services programs while ensuring the protection of sensitive data.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 142E.51, 245C.05, 245C.08, 245C.22, 256.98, 256B.12, 480.40
1st Engrossment: 13.46, 15.471, 142E.51, 245.095, 245A.04, 245A.05, 245A.07, 245C.05, 245C.08, 245C.14, 245C.22, 254A.19, 256.98, 256B.064, 256B.12, 256G.01, 256G.08, 256G.09, 480.40, 611.43, 611.46, 611.55
2nd Engrossment: 13.46, 15.471, 142E.51, 245.095, 245A.04, 245A.05, 245A.07, 245C.05, 245C.08, 245C.14, 245C.22, 254A.19, 256.98, 256B.064, 256B.12, 256G.01, 256G.08, 256G.09, 480.40, 611.43, 611.46, 611.55