The bill amends Minnesota Statutes concerning nonemergency medical transportation (NEMT) by introducing new limitations on service coverage, frequency of coverage for individual recipients, and reimbursement rates. Effective July 1, 2026, for medical assistance fee-for-service and January 1, 2027, for prepaid medical assistance, the bill establishes specific payment structures for various transport types, including assisted and stretcher transport, with a base rate and per-mile charges. It also mandates that payments be based on the client's assessed mode of transport rather than the vehicle type and includes provisions for adjusting payment rates based on gasoline prices, with recalibration if fuel costs exceed $3.00 per gallon.

Additionally, the bill requires the commissioner to contract for the administration of the NEMT program and emphasizes adherence to commissioner-defined policies while ensuring fair reimbursement for recognized transportation providers. It repeals certain subdivisions related to NEMT, streamlining the administrative structure and delivery system. The overall goal of the bill is to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of NEMT services while ensuring that the needs of Minnesota health care program beneficiaries are met and that reimbursement rates reflect current economic conditions.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 256B.04, 256B.0625