MN SF4149

Establishes a 12-member legislative study group to prepare a plan for restructuring the Minnesota Department of Human Services.

Study group comprises six House members (three appointed by Speaker, three by minority leader, including the House Human Services Finance and Policy Committee chair) and six senators (three appointed by majority leader, three by minority leader, including the Senate Human Services Reform Finance and Policy Committee chair), plus the legislative auditor as ex officio member.

Study group must consider current Department functions, policy considerations including coordination, accountability, service continuity, budget priorities, client and county effects, and administrative efficiency, plus information on human services structures in other states.

Study group must consult with stakeholders including the human services commissioner, county social service administrators, counties, health maintenance organizations, healthcare providers, disability advocacy groups, and organizations representing elderly, children, persons with mental illness, and those needing economic supports.

Study group must report a restructuring plan with draft implementing legislation to legislative committees with jurisdiction over state government and human services finance and policy by January 31, 2024; study group expires January 31, 2024, or upon report submission, whichever is later.