Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to enhance awareness, understanding, and support services for individuals living with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (MECFS) in Minnesota. It aims to increase educational outreach and social services for those affected by MECFS and to understand the impacts of the syndrome through data collection and research.

Main Provisions

1. Grants for Education and Outreach: The bill mandates the Minnesota Commissioner of Health to issue grants aimed at increasing awareness and education about MECFS among healthcare professionals, individuals with MECFS symptoms, health plans, and the general public. These grants will be awarded based on competitive proposals and can be given to community health boards, state agencies, state councils, or nonprofit organizations.

2. Improved Access to Social Services: The Commissioner of Human Services is required to offer grants to establish and improve access to various social services for individuals experiencing the effects of MECFS. Services can include counseling, medical case management, transportation, financial assistance, legal support, and peer-support groups.

3. MECFS Program Establishment: The bill requires the establishment of a program to conduct assessments and epidemiological investigations to monitor MECFS impacts. The aim is to track trends and outcomes, target resources, and inform the public and healthcare professionals about MECFS.

4. Reporting to the Legislature: The commissioners are tasked with submitting a detailed report by December 1, 2027, covering the effectiveness of the grants, identifying additional needs for MECFS management, and providing recommended legislative actions and demographic findings.

5. Appropriations: The bill appropriates funds from the general fund for fiscal year 2026 to support these initiatives. This funding is designated as a one-time appropriation, available until June 30, 2028.

Significant Changes

• Establishment of a formal MECFS program focused on education, outreach, and monitoring of the syndrome's prevalence and impact.
• Introduction of grant funding to enhance both the educational efforts and support services available to those with MECFS.
• Legislative commitment to a report that will guide future MECFS-related interventions based on collected data and program outcomes.

Relevant Terms

myalgic encephalomyelitis, chronic fatigue syndrome, MECFS, healthcare professionals, community health boards, social services, epidemiologic investigations, awareness programs, public health, marginalized communities, grant funding, Minnesota health legislation.