Purpose of the Bill

The bill seeks to establish a Healthy Aging Subcabinet along with a Citizens Engagement Council in Minnesota. The aim is to ensure that all residents can age with dignity, have equitable health opportunities throughout their life, and address the challenges of an aging population through strategic planning and public engagement.

Main Provisions

• Healthy Aging Subcabinet: A new entity will be created within Minnesota Management and Budget. It will focus on planning and implementing a Minnesota Healthy Aging Plan that emphasizes elderly care and community support.

• Director Appointment: The Governor will appoint a director who will oversee the subcabinet and the associated Citizens Engagement Council, bringing expertise in public health and aging-related concerns.

• Integration and Coordination: State agencies will be asked to integrate aging-related considerations into their planning. The subcabinet will work across sectors, including collaborating with tribal governments, to improve aging policies.

• Citizens Engagement Council: Comprising 20 members from diverse backgrounds, this council will ensure public input into the development of the Minnesota Healthy Aging Plan. Members will represent different regions and demographic groups, including caregivers and advocacy organizations.

• Public Involvement and Awareness: The Office of Healthy Aging will maintain a website for public engagement and annually report on its activities, supporting transparency and participation in ongoing policy efforts.

• Funding and Support: Financial appropriations of $1,700,000 annually for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 will support the establishment and activities of the Healthy Aging Subcabinet.

Significant Changes

• New Structures and Roles: Establishes a new subcabinet and an engagement council dedicated to addressing the needs of older adults.

• Statewide Aging Plan: Mandates the creation of a comprehensive Minnesota Healthy Aging Plan informed by public feedback and sector-wide collaboration.

• Strategic Focus on Aging Issues: Promotes the consideration of aging issues in state agency decision-making and policy formulation, aiming for long-term solutions to enhance the quality of life for older adults.

Relevant Terms

Healthy Aging, Minnesota Healthy Aging Plan, Aging Population, Public Health, Community Engagement, Aging Policy, Long-term Care, Aging Services, Social Determinants of Health, Elder Care, Public and Private Sectors, Tribal Governments.