This bill modifies the requirements for the Waiver Reimagine initiative in Minnesota, establishes the Legislative Task Force on Waiver Reimagine, and sets new guidelines for oversight and implementation. The key provisions of the bill include:

1. Required Report on Waiver Reimagine Phase II:

   • Before seeking federal approval for Phase II of Waiver Reimagine, the Minnesota Commissioner of Human Services must submit a report by December 15, 2026, detailing plans for the waiver, including adjustments to services, funding structures, and individual budget determinations.
   • The report must consider how services and funding will be allocated based on individual needs rather than the location of services.

2. Transition to a Two-Waiver System:

   • The Commissioner must develop a transition process to assist waiver participants in moving to a two-waiver system with an individual budget methodology.
   • Ensures that waiver recipients can live in their preferred housing setting with necessary support, without service disruptions.

3. Legislative Task Force on Waiver Reimagine:

   • A 27-member task force is created to review and provide recommendations on the Waiver Reimagine initiative.
   • The task force includes state legislators, waiver recipients, county assessors, case managers, disability advocates, family members of recipients, representatives from state agencies, and service providers.
   • Appointments to the task force must be made by September 30, 2025, with the first meeting convening by November 30, 2025.

4. Task Force Responsibilities:

   • Evaluate the transition from four existing disability waivers to two.
   • Recommend budget methodologies based on individual needs, not geographic location.
   • Assess service planning, provider rates, and waiver application processes.
   • Analyze potential effects of Waiver Reimagine, including benefits and unintended consequences.
   • Hold public meetings to gather input from waiver recipients, families, providers, and advocacy groups.

5. Reporting and Expiration:

   • The task force must submit its final report to the legislature by January 15, 2027.
   • The task force will expire on December 31, 2027, or upon the submission of its report, whichever is earlier.

6. Legislative and Public Review:

   • Before finalizing the Waiver Reimagine plan, the Commissioner must submit it to the task force, the legislature, and waiver recipients for review, allowing at least six months for feedback.
   • The plan cannot be submitted for federal approval without task force approval.

Overall, this bill strengthens legislative and stakeholder oversight of Waiver Reimagine, ensuring that changes to Minnesota’s disability waiver system are carefully reviewed, participant needs are prioritized, and the transition to a new system is smooth and equitable.