This bill seeks to enhance the rights of individuals undergoing substance use disorder treatment in Minnesota, particularly concerning their religious beliefs. It mandates that licensed alcohol and drug counselors complete continuing education on professional ethics and the management of religious objections in treatment. Importantly, the bill stipulates that individuals who object in good faith to religious components of treatment cannot be forced to participate in those elements. Instead, they must be offered equivalent alternative treatment options that exclude religious aspects. The legislation also requires documentation of any religious objections raised by offenders and emphasizes the need for cultural context in treatment assessments.

Additionally, the bill establishes protections against coercion by courts, corrections officers, and other authorities regarding participation in religious treatment elements. It clarifies that a person's refusal to engage in religious components will not adversely affect their treatment duration or discharge requirements. The commissioner is tasked with licensing various secular treatment programs and providing technical assistance to ensure compliance with these new provisions. Furthermore, a report is mandated by January 15, 2027, to evaluate the prevalence of religious elements in treatment programs and the availability of secular options, assessing the barriers faced by individuals required to participate in religious programs.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 148F.075, 241.415, 244.0513, 245F.10, 245G.13, 245G.15, 245I.10, 253B.03, 253B.04, 254B.05, 609.14