This bill proposes the establishment of the Minnesota Health Care Workforce Advisory Council to address health care workforce challenges in the state. The council would provide data analysis, collaborate with other entities, review legislation, and recommend policies and programs to support the workforce.

Key Provisions:

1. Council Responsibilities:

   • Conduct research and analyze health care workforce data.
   • Advise the legislature and stakeholders on workforce issues, including education, training, retention, diversity, and health care delivery changes.
   • Recommend public and private sector policies to address workforce needs.

2. Collaboration:

   • Engage with various workforce planning entities, educational institutions, associations, and state agencies.
   • Focus on health equity and increasing participation from underrepresented groups in health care professions.

3. Membership:

   • Consists of 16 members, including 4 legislators, representatives of state agencies, and 10 members appointed by the governor with expertise in workforce issues.
   • Appointments must ensure geographic and demographic diversity.

4. Terms & Governance:

   • Members serve four-year terms, with initial staggered appointments.
   • An executive director will be hired with council input.
   • The council will not expire, although members are unpaid except for expense reimbursements.

5. Duties & Reporting:

   • Regular meetings to identify pressing workforce issues, including shortages, retention, and geographic distribution of providers.
   • Provide advice to the legislature and other entities on health workforce initiatives.
   • Develop five-year workforce plans with progress and performance metrics, the first due by January 15, 2027, and updated every five years.

6. Funding, Incentives, & Innovations:

   • Explore funding sources for workforce training and education.
   • Recommend strategies for recruitment and retention, particularly in underserved areas.
   • Identify ways to expand career paths and reduce financial barriers for health care workers.

7. Data Access:

   • The commissioner of health may request and use data from state agencies for workforce analysis.

Overall Purpose:

This bill aims to create a comprehensive, long-term strategy to address Minnesota’s health care workforce shortages and disparities. By convening experts and stakeholders, it seeks to ensure the state’s health care system has the workforce needed to meet future needs.