The bill proposes extensive changes to Minnesota state law regarding health and licensing, particularly by restructuring and renaming the Higher Education Facilities Authority to the Minnesota Health and Education Facilities Authority. This change reflects a broader focus on health care alongside education and includes an expansion of the authority's membership from eight to nine members, now incorporating representatives from the Office of Higher Education and a Minnesota nonprofit health care association in advisory roles. Key amendments also introduce a new requirement for informed consent for sensitive examinations on anesthetized or unconscious patients, with violations subject to disciplinary actions by health licensing boards.

Additionally, the bill increases the authority's bonding capacity from $2 billion to $5 billion, allowing for greater financial support for health care and educational projects. It clarifies the authority's role in financing and constructing health care facilities, ensuring compliance with state laws and protecting local municipalities from certain consent requirements. The bill also addresses administrative aspects, such as conflict of interest provisions for trustees and employees, and mandates annual reporting to the Minnesota Historical Society and the Legislative Reference Library. Overall, these amendments aim to enhance the regulatory framework and operational efficiency of the authority, ultimately benefiting health care and education infrastructure in Minnesota.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 144.98
1st Engrossment: 136A.29, 144.98, 144E.123, 145.4718, 145.901, 145.902, 147A.02, 148.56, 3.732, 10A.01, 136A.25, 136A.26, 136A.27, 136A.28, 136A.32, 136A.33, 136A.34, 136A.36, 136A.38, 136A.41, 136A.42, 136F.67, 354B.20