Purpose of the Bill

This legislative proposal aims to support healthy aging in Minnesota by establishing a Healthy Aging Subcabinet and a Citizens Engagement Council. It seeks to formulate a comprehensive Minnesota Healthy Aging Plan designed to improve the quality of life for older adults in the state.

Main Provisions

• Healthy Aging Subcabinet: This entity will be responsible for statewide planning for aging, ensuring public participation in policy development, identifying opportunities for improved quality of life, and serving as a legislative resource.
• Director and Office of Healthy Aging: The governor will appoint a director to oversee the subcabinet and establish the Office of Healthy Aging. The director will coordinate efforts, lead the planning process, and ensure that community and caregiver perspectives are included in the aging plan.
• Citizens Engagement Council: A council of 20 members from diverse backgrounds will provide input on aging-related initiatives, ensuring that the voices of older adults are represented.
• Subcabinet Duties: The subcabinet will promote evidence-based approaches and policies, integrate aging considerations into state agency planning, identify funding sources, and evaluate current aging-related initiatives.

Significant Changes

• Formation of New Government Bodies: The bill introduces new entities, such as the Healthy Aging Subcabinet and Citizens Engagement Council, specifically focused on aging.
• Public Engagement: There will be an emphasis on community input and transparency, including a public website and annual reports to track progress.
• Comprehensive Planning: The introduction of a Minnesota Healthy Aging Plan aims to streamline and improve policy approaches to aging, covering areas such as healthcare access, housing, and employment opportunities for older adults.
• Funding: The bill appropriates $1,700,000 for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to support the implementation of these initiatives.

Relevant Terms

Healthy Aging, Aging Population, Public Health, Community Engagement, Long-term Care, Aging Services, State Government, Minnesota Healthy Aging Plan, Older Adults, Subcabinet, Council.