This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 641.155, to enhance support for individuals with serious and persistent mental illnesses who are being released from county jails. It mandates that discharge plans be completed at least 14 days prior to release, ensuring that individuals receive assistance with medical assistance applications, case management referrals, state photo identification, timely psychiatric appointments, and a 30-day supply of necessary medications. Additionally, the bill introduces a new focus on jail diversion programs, allowing counties to establish initiatives aimed at diverting individuals with mental illnesses and substance use disorders from arrest or incarceration.

Furthermore, the bill creates a jail diversion grant program overseen by the commissioner of corrections, in consultation with the commissioner of human services and counties. This program will provide funding for counties to develop and maintain jail diversion programs, with an emphasis on partnerships with mobile crisis teams and local mental health service providers. The bill also includes an appropriation for the program, ensuring financial support for its implementation in fiscal years 2026 and 2027, with a base appropriation set for subsequent years. Grantees will be required to provide data to evaluate the program's effectiveness, with ongoing outcome measures developed in collaboration with the commissioner.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 641.155