SF2902

Purpose of the Bill

The bill seeks to adjust financial responsibilities for the cost of care at state-operated facilities like Anoka Metro Regional Treatment Center. It primarily addresses the county and state share of costs, particularly for individuals with mental illness and those deemed dangerous to the public.

Main Provisions

• County Payment Schedule: Counties pay no cost for the first 30 days of care. From day 31 and onward, if the stay is clinically appropriate, counties cover 20% of the costs. For days deemed inappropriate for continued stay, counties bear the full cost.
• Cost of Care Exemption: Between July 1, 2023, and March 31, 2025, counties are not responsible for costs if certain patients are awaiting transfer. Starting July 1, 2025, this exemption extends to civilly committed individuals waiting for transfers to suitable state-operated facilities or Department of Corrections facilities when no other options are available.
• Client Financial Protection: Clients are not held financially responsible for costs during these specified periods.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• The bill extends a temporary exemption for counties from bearing costs for certain patients awaiting transfer to suitable facilities.
• It establishes structured criteria under which counties would not be responsible for these expenses, emphasizing administrative efficiencies by using a review panel to prioritize admissions.

Relevant Terms

state-operated services, cost of care exemption, mental illness, Anoka Metro Regional Treatment Center, county payment, civil commitment, Department of Corrections, Direct Care and Treatment, clinically appropriate