HF2143

HF2143 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Mental illness definition modified, changes to medical assistance transportation reimbursement rates made, grant program for children at risk of bipolar disorder established, report required, children's first episode of psychosis program funding provided, and money appropriated.

Related bill: SF1953

AI Generated Summary

This bill, introduced in the Minnesota House of Representatives, proposes several changes and initiatives related to mental health services, transportation reimbursement, and support programs for individuals with bipolar disorder and first-episode psychosis. Below is a summary of its key provisions:

Definition of Mental Illness:
- Modifies the definition of "mental illness" in state law.
- Updates criteria for an individual to qualify as having a serious and persistent mental illness.
- Lowers the time period in which individuals must have had inpatient or crisis care to qualify for case management services.
Changes to Medical Assistance Transportation Reimbursement Rates:
- Enhances reimbursement provisions for nonemergency medical transportation.
- Adjusts rates based on geographical areas (urban, rural, super rural).
- Implements a dynamic rate adjustment mechanism tied to fluctuations in fuel prices.
- Outlines requirements for transportation providers and their compliance with background checks.
Early Episode of Bipolar Disorder Grant Program:
- Establishes a state-funded grant program to support youth and young adults (ages 15-40) at risk of developing or experiencing early episodes of bipolar disorder.
- Grants will fund evidence-based interventions, including medication management, psychoeducation, case management, employment and education support, peer counseling, stress management, and crisis planning.
- Programs must provide outreach and training for mental health professionals on bipolar disorder-related best practices.
- Funds may be used to assist individuals with housing and travel costs if financial barriers exist.
Children’s First Episode of Psychosis Program:
- Appropriates funds for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to expand and support first-episode psychosis programs under Minnesota law.
- Ensures current programs remain funded and stable while allowing for expansion outside metropolitan areas.
Reporting and Evaluation Requirements:
- The Department of Human Services must track and report on the use of funds for the Early Episode of Bipolar Disorder Program.
- Evaluation metrics include symptom reduction, hospitalization reduction, and improvements in education or employment outcomes.
- The commissioner must secure federal grants to supplement state funding.

Overall, this bill aims to expand mental health services, improve transportation access for individuals needing medical care, and enhance support for young individuals at risk for severe psychiatric conditions.

Bill text versions

Introduction PDF file

Actions

Date	Chamber	Where	Type	Name	Committee Name
March 09, 2025	House	Floor	Action	Introduction and first reading, referred to	Human Services Finance and Policy
March 09, 2025	House	Floor	Action	Introduction and first reading, referred to	Human Services Finance and Policy
March 10, 2025	House	Floor	Action	Authors added
March 25, 2025	House	Floor	Action	Author added
April 23, 2025	House	Floor	Action	Author added
April 23, 2025	House	Floor	Action	Author added

Citations

[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Updated definitions related to distant site, health care provider, and telehealth."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This bill amends the definitions section within the context of healthcare, particularly telehealth.",
      "modified": [
        "Clarified what constitutes telehealth and included provisions for audio-only communications until July 1, 2025."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "62A.673",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 2"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [
        "Some criteria references were updated, like changing time durations from 24 months to 12 months."
      ],
      "summary": "This section modifies the definition of 'mental illness' and criteria for service eligibility.",
      "modified": [
        "Broader eligibility for adults with serious and persistent mental illness."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "245.462",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 20"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "Details on transportation provider requirements and administrative agency responsibilities."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This section addresses medical assistance and reimbursement for nonemergency medical transportation services.",
      "modified": [
        "Adjusted the reimbursement rates and defined conditions for mileage rate adjustments."
      ]
    },
    "citation": "256B.0625",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 17"
  }
]