This bill seeks to enhance the oversight and accountability of the Department of Corrections in Minnesota regarding the licensing and inspection of both juvenile and adult community-based residential correctional facilities. It introduces new legal language under section 241.011, which defines the responsibilities of local correctional facilities, mandates inspections by the commissioner of corrections at least once every two years, and requires the publication of inspection reports on the department's website. The bill also establishes protocols for reporting critical incidents and emergencies, ensuring that facility administrators are held accountable for compliance with minimum standards. Additionally, it introduces section 241.012, which outlines the process for issuing correction orders and conditional licenses for facilities that do not meet established standards, as well as the criteria for revoking licenses.

Moreover, the bill amends existing laws related to the inspection and licensing of correctional facilities, particularly focusing on jails and lockups. It sets new minimum standards for these facilities, including guidelines for managing individuals with mental health or substance use disorders and mandates that all correctional facilities must be licensed by the commissioner. The bill also emphasizes transparency by requiring public posting of inspection reports and significant incident reports. It establishes a state correctional facilities security audit group to conduct biennial security audits and includes provisions for the licensing of facilities for delinquent children and youth, ensuring that affected municipalities are notified before licenses are granted. Overall, the bill aims to improve the safety and well-being of individuals housed in correctional facilities while ensuring compliance with established standards.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 241.021
1st Engrossment: 241.021
2nd Engrossment: 241.021