This bill aims to enhance behavioral health services for children and families in Minnesota by updating the Children's Mental Health Act and establishing a new intermediate school-linked behavioral health grant program. Key amendments include the definition of a "case management service provider," which now requires case managers to be mental health practitioners or possess a relevant bachelor's degree, along with specific experience and training. Additionally, the bill introduces a new subdivision that defines "clinical supervision" and mandates that it be provided by a qualified mental health professional, ensuring oversight of individual treatment plans.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a grant program to improve behavioral health outcomes for youth in qualifying school districts. Eligible applicants for the grant include various mental health service providers, and the program will support activities such as identifying mental health conditions, delivering treatment, and enhancing school capacity to address student needs. Grantees are required to seek third-party reimbursements and must serve students regardless of their health coverage status. The bill also outlines the process for calculating grant allocations based on student enrollment and mandates data collection for evaluating the program's effectiveness.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 245.4871, 245.4881