Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to create a process for certain licensed human services programs in Minnesota to undergo alternative licensing inspections if they are accredited by recognized accrediting bodies. This aims to streamline the inspection process while maintaining compliance with state standards.

Main Provisions

• Eligibility Criteria: A license holder must hold a qualifying accreditation and must not have had any major licensing issues or substantiated allegations of maltreatment in the past five years. Eligible facilities include qualified residential treatment programs, psychiatric residential treatment facilities, and certified community behavioral health clinics.

• Accreditation and Compliance: The commissioner will determine if an accrediting body's standards are equivalent to state licensing standards. Upon approval, these bodies may partially assume the role of licensing inspection to ensure compliance.

• Request Process: License holders wishing to have alternative inspections must submit a formal request with supporting documentation of their accreditation. The commissioner will have 90 days to respond to these requests.

• Ongoing Compliance and Monitoring: Facilities must continue to comply with all applicable licensing standards and may be subject to additional inspections for areas not covered by the accrediting body. Routine inspections will still occur every five years.

• Investigation and Appeals: The bill does not change the state's responsibility to investigate allegations of maltreatment or other complaints. If a facility loses its accreditation or violates standards, the commissioner may terminate alternative inspection approval. Decisions regarding eligibility for alternative licensing inspections are final and not subject to appeal.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Use of Accredited Inspections: The bill introduces the option for accredited bodies to conduct inspections, potentially reducing the burden on state resources while still ensuring compliance with state standards.
• Enforcement and Termination: Establishes clear criteria for termination of alternative inspection approvals if facilities fail to maintain standards or accreditation.

Relevant Terms

• Alternative licensing inspections
• Accreditation
• Human services programs
• Compliance
• Maltreatment investigations
• Licensing standards