This bill establishes a Climate and Mental Health Advisory Task Force within Minnesota’s climate resiliency program to assess the mental health impacts of climate change and extreme weather events. The task force will consist of 16 members, including legislators and representatives from communities particularly vulnerable to climate change effects.

Key Provisions:

1. Task Force Composition:

   • 4 legislators (2 from the Senate, 2 from the House).
   • 12 members appointed by the commissioner of health, representing:
     • Communities at risk from extreme weather.
     • Communities dependent on stable weather for their livelihood (e.g., farmers).
     • Indigenous and nature-dependent communities.
     • Groups exposed to increased pollution.
     • Youth, elders, and people with disabilities affected by climate change.

2. Duties of the Task Force:

   • Identify the mental health effects of climate change in Minnesota.
   • Analyze current and future severity of these effects across various demographics.
   • Determine which communities are most affected now and in the future.
   • Assess and recommend strategies to mitigate these mental health effects.
   • Gather public input on related issues.
   • Provide findings and recommendations to the Commissioner of Health, including a targeted implementation plan.

3. Implementation & Funding:

   • The task force will continue until terminated by the Commissioner of Health.
   • A one-time appropriation is allocated from the general fund for fiscal year 2026, available until June 30, 2031, to support the task force's activities.

This bill aims to integrate mental health considerations into Minnesota’s climate resilience planning, ensuring vulnerable communities receive targeted support.