This bill aims to enhance the essential community supports program and improve waiver case management services in Minnesota. It amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 256B.0922, subdivision 1, to adjust the monthly cap for essential community supports from a deletion of $400 to a new amount that will be specified. Additionally, it mandates that individuals receiving these supports must also receive service coordination, with a new cap replacing the previous $600 limit. The bill also introduces a new section on waiver case management, requiring county agencies to conduct annual labor market analyses and submit data on case management services, including employment statistics and wages.

Furthermore, the bill proposes a 27.5 percent increase in waiver case management rates effective July 1, 2025, and outlines a process for the commissioner of human services to develop a statewide rate methodology. This methodology will consider various factors such as prevailing wages, recruitment costs, and caseload sizes. The commissioner is tasked with engaging county agencies and community members to gather input and must submit recommendations to legislative committees by February 1, 2026. Overall, the bill seeks to improve the quality and accessibility of services for older adults and individuals requiring community support in Minnesota.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 256B.0922