The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 641.155, to enhance discharge planning for individuals with serious and persistent mental illnesses who are being released from county jails. It specifies that these individuals must be referred to appropriate county staff at least 14 days prior to their release, ensuring they receive assistance with medical assistance applications, case management referrals, obtaining state identification, securing mental health appointments, and receiving 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 establishes a jail diversion grant program, which will be created by the commissioner of corrections in consultation with the commissioner of human services and counties. This program will provide funding for counties to implement and maintain jail diversion programs, with an emphasis on partnerships with mobile crisis teams and local mental health service providers. The bill also includes provisions for data collection to evaluate the effectiveness of these programs and appropriates funds for the grant program for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, with a base appropriation set for subsequent years.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 641.155