This bill, S.F. No. 1870, proposes modifications to human services licensing in Minnesota, particularly addressing licensure application timelines under Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 245A.04, subdivision 1. The main changes include:

1. Application Processing Timeline:

   • The commissioner must approve or deny a complete licensure application within 90 calendar days of receiving all required documents.
   • If a decision is not made within this period, the application is automatically approved.
   • If an application is incomplete or substantially deficient, the applicant is given 45 days to resubmit a complete application. Failure to do so may result in license denial.

2. Licensing Application Requirements:

   • Identifies the need for applicants to designate an authorized agent for communication.
   • Requires applicants to have a drug and alcohol policy for employees, subcontractors, and volunteers.
   • Mandates a program grievance procedure to allow service recipients to bring complaints to the highest authority.

3. Additional Oversight & Documentation:

   • Applicants must submit details on controlling individuals, taxpayer identification numbers, business filings, and other necessary documentation.
   • Government entities must provide an official letter from leadership approving the application.
   • The commissioner may limit communication to controlling individuals or the authorized agent.

4. Public Funding & Compliance Acknowledgment:

   • Applicants must acknowledge compliance with public funding and enrollment requirements.
   • Noncompliance could result in correction orders, license conditions, denial of reimbursements, financial recovery, disenrollment from public programs, and possibly legal penalties.

This bill aims to streamline the licensing process, enhance accountability, and establish clearer guidelines for licensure applicants in human services.