The bill establishes a Climate and Mental Health Advisory Task Force as part of a broader climate resiliency program under the Minnesota Department of Health. The task force will consist of 16 members, including state legislators and representatives from various communities affected by climate change. Its primary responsibilities include identifying the mental health impacts of climate change, analyzing these effects across different demographics, and assessing strategies to mitigate these impacts, particularly for the most affected communities. The task force is required to report its findings and make recommendations to the commissioner of health, including a targeted implementation schedule for proposed strategies.
Additionally, the bill appropriates funds from the general fund for the fiscal year 2025 to support the task force's activities and the implementation of its recommendations. This funding is a one-time appropriation available until June 30, 2030. The bill aims to enhance awareness of climate change's public health impacts and provide necessary support to local health departments and organizations in addressing these challenges.