This bill aims to clarify the role of the Minnesota Competency Attainment Board as a public employer and introduces several policy changes to its processes. It amends existing statutes to include the Minnesota Competency Attainment Board as a public employer, thereby ensuring it is recognized alongside other state entities. The bill also establishes that the board must negotiate with the exclusive representative of the forensic navigator unit and outlines exclusions for certain employee positions. Additionally, it mandates that the board be represented by the program administrator during negotiations and grants the board the authority to enter into agreements with exclusive representatives.

Furthermore, the bill provides immunity from civil liability for the board and its employees in relation to their duties, as long as there is no willful or malicious conduct. It also modifies the board's responsibilities, including the creation of a statewide competency attainment system and the establishment of standards and procedures for forensic navigator services. The amendments aim to enhance the board's operational efficiency and ensure better support for defendants with mental illnesses and cognitive impairments within the legal system.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 179A.03, 611.55, 611.56