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SF2646 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Certain human services programs alternative licensing inspections authorization provision

Related bill: HF2907

AI Generated Summary

Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to allow certain human services programs in Minnesota to request alternative licensing inspections. This is meant to streamline the inspection process for programs that already meet specific accreditation standards, potentially reducing redundancy and focusing resources on maintaining high standards of care.

Main Provisions

  • Eligibility: A licensed human services program can apply for an alternative licensing inspection if it has a qualifying accreditation and meets existing legal standards. The program must demonstrate substantial compliance, meaning it should not have any previous significant violations or substantiated allegations of maltreatment in the past five years.

  • Accreditation: The program's accrediting body's standards must align with the licensing requirements of Minnesota law. The recognized accrediting bodies include The Joint Commission, the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), and the Council on Accreditation.

  • Request Process: Programs must apply using forms specified by the commissioner and provide necessary accreditation documentation. The commissioner will review the application and notify the program of approval status within 90 days.

  • Inspection and Compliance: Approved programs must maintain their accreditation and notify the commissioner of any changes. The commissioner retains the right to conduct compliance inspections if needed, particularly if there are changes in legislation or if complaints are received about the program.

  • Investigations: The bill does not modify the commissioner’s responsibility to investigate any allegations of maltreatment involving minors or vulnerable adults.

  • Revocation and Appeals: If a program fails to maintain accreditation or comply with standards, the commissioner can terminate the alternative inspection approval. Decisions by the commissioner regarding these approvals are final and cannot be appealed.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

The bill introduces a formal process for allowing alternative licensing inspections based on third-party accreditation. This changes the existing system where programs might undergo redundant inspections despite adhering to high accreditation standards.

Relevant Terms

  • Human services
  • Licensing inspections
  • Accreditation
  • Compliance
  • Maltreatment investigation
  • The Joint Commission
  • Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)
  • Council on Accreditation

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
March 16, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
March 16, 2025SenateFloorActionReferred toHealth and Human Services

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This section defines what constitutes a qualified residential treatment program.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "260C.007",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 26d"
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This section refers to psychiatric residential treatment facilities.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "256B.0941",
    "subdivision": ""
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This section pertains to procedures related to certified community behavioral health clinics.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "245.735",
    "subdivision": ""
  },
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "This section involves the investigation responsibilities for maltreatment of a vulnerable adult.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "626.557",
    "subdivision": ""
  }
]

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