This bill proposes comprehensive changes to health and licensing provisions in Minnesota, particularly focusing on the restructuring of the Higher Education Facilities Authority, which will be renamed the Minnesota Health and Education Facilities Authority. The bill introduces informed consent requirements for sensitive medical examinations, prohibiting such procedures on anesthetized or unconscious patients without prior written consent, except in specific situations. It also outlines disciplinary actions for health professionals who fail to comply with these consent requirements. Other amendments include updates to laboratory accreditation, evaluation of child sex trafficking prevention programs, and the definition of "safe places" for relinquishing newborns, while removing outdated language regarding evaluation timing and enhancing public health responses through improved data sharing.

Additionally, the bill expands the authority and capabilities of optometrists, allowing them to administer local anesthesia for certain procedures and inject Botulinum toxin for cosmetic purposes, contingent upon board approval after demonstrating adequate training. It also redefines "health care organizations" to include nonprofit entities operating health care facilities in Minnesota and contiguous states, thereby broadening their financing and construction capabilities. The revenue bond limit for health care projects is increased from $2 billion to $5 billion, with specific caps for education and health care facilities, and mandates that bond proceeds must not benefit private parties. The bill streamlines the authority's operational framework by clarifying its financial responsibilities and reporting requirements, ultimately aiming to enhance health policy and regulatory frameworks 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
2nd Engrossment: 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.29, 136A.32, 136A.33, 136A.34, 136A.36, 136A.38, 136A.41, 136A.42, 136F.67, 354B.20