HF3109

Purpose of the Bill

The bill amends various sections of Minnesota Statutes to improve human services programs. It focuses on modifying family support programs, consumer support programs, and services covered under the Community First Services and Supports (CFSS) for individuals with disabilities. The goal is to provide better support for individuals with disabilities and their families through financial grants and tailored services.

Main Provisions

• Family and Consumer Support Grant Modifications:

  • The amendments allow for adjustments in support grant amounts, emphasizing that funds must be used for expenses beyond normal care costs.
  • Specific types of services, such as adaptive swimming lessons for individuals at higher risk of drowning, are highlighted as eligible expenses.
  • Grants aim to prevent or delay out-of-home placements by addressing the needs directly related to the individual's disability.
  • Local agencies are required to establish procedures for determining grant eligibility and use.

• Community First Services and Supports (CFSS):

  • The bill outlines covered services under CFSS, including assistance with daily living activities, behavior observation and intervention, and the provision of assistive technology.
  • It introduces support for services delivered by legal guardians or parents/stepparents of minors, with certain limitations.
  • Includes specific provisions for swimming lessons for individuals with disabilities at higher drowning risk.
  • Allows for financial management service (FMS) providers and consultation services providers to deliver certain CFSS under contract.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Expansion of Eligible Expenses:

  • The bill broadens the scope of what can be covered under support grants, allowing more personalized services and specific preventive measures like swimming lessons.

• Agency and Provider Roles:

  • Agencies are given the flexibility to determine grant amounts but must follow structured criteria and documentation processes.
  • New roles for parents/guardians and support workers are defined, expanding the pool of eligible service providers in the CFSS program.

• Grant Amount Adjustments and Procedures:

  • Maximum grant amounts are set with provisions for cost-of-living adjustments, allowing for variability based on family needs and available funding.

Relevant Terms

• Family support programs
• Disability waivers
• Consumer-directed community supports
• Community First Services and Supports (CFSS)
• Adaptive swimming lessons
• Out-of-home placement prevention
• Financial Management Service (FMS) provider