This bill modifies the requirements for Minnesota’s Waiver Reimagine program, which focuses on restructuring home and community-based service waivers for individuals with disabilities. It establishes the Legislative Task Force on Waiver Reimagine, which will oversee implementation, gather input from stakeholders, and make recommendations to ensure a smooth transition.

Key Provisions:

1. Required Report (Due by December 15, 2026)

   • The Commissioner of Human Services, in collaboration with the Waiver Reimagine Advisory Committee, must submit a report to legislative committees.
     
   • The report will outline the Waiver Reimagine Phase II plan before seeking federal approval.
     
   • It must cover key elements such as adjustments to services, budget criteria, and the impact of MnCHOICES 2.0 (an assessment tool).
     

2. Transition Process

   • Before implementing Waiver Reimagine Phase II, the Commissioner must develop a transition plan for waiver recipients and lead agencies.
     
   • The new waiver system must allow individuals to live in their preferred home and community settings with properly assessed budgets based on need, not location.
     
   • The transition must minimize service disruptions and ensure budgets meet assessed needs while promoting independent living.
     

3. Legislative Task Force on Waiver Reimagine

   • A 28-member task force will be created, including legislators, waiver recipients, county employees, disability advocates, and service providers.
     
   • The Legislative Coordinating Commission will appoint members by September 30, 2025, and the first meeting must occur by November 30, 2025.
     
   • The task force will review and approve the Waiver Reimagine plan before it is submitted for federal approval.
     
   • It must hold quarterly public meetings to gather input from stakeholders.
     

4. Task Force Duties

   • Oversee the consolidation of Minnesota’s four disability-related waivers into two programs.
     
   • Ensure that individual budgets reflect actual needs rather than location-based funding.
     
   • Review the assessment tools, provider rate exceptions, and waiver service menus to prevent gaps in service.
     
   • Examine potential intended and unintended consequences of the transition.
     

5. Final Report and Expiration

   • The task force must submit its final report with recommendations to the legislature by January 15, 2027.
     
   • The group will expire on December 31, 2027, or upon submission of the report, whichever comes first.
     

Summary of Impact:

The bill ensures a transparent and inclusive transition to a simplified waiver system that meets individual needs while minimizing disruption. It strengthens legislative oversight and allows stakeholders meaningful input before Waiver Reimagine Phase II is submitted for federal approval.