SF4330

Purpose

To adjust who can provide medical input for disability pension decisions under the Teachers Retirement Association. The bill adds a formal definition of “medical provider” and allows these professionals to submit reports in support of a member’s application to receive or continue disability pension benefits.

Main Provisions

• Defines “Medical provider” to include:
  • physician
  • chiropractor
  • physician assistant
  • APRN (advanced practice registered nurse)
  • psychologist (for matters involving mental impairment)
• Enables medical providers to submit reports in support of a member’s application for disability pension benefits or for continued eligibility.
• Adds the new definition and reporting authority to Minnesota Statutes 2024, affecting sections 354.05 (definition), 354.07 (disability process), and 354.48 (disability benefits procedures).

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Establishes a formal, expanded list of professionals who can submit disability-related medical reports, broadening beyond physicians to include physician assistants, chiropractors, APRNs, and psychologists for mental impairment cases.
• Updates the statutory framework (sections 354.05, 354.07, 354.48) to reflect the new medical-provider definition and associated reporting requirements within the Teachers Retirement Association’s disability determination process.

Definitions (Key Term Added)

• Medical provider: an individual licensed as a physician, chiropractor, physician assistant, APRN, or a psychologist when the issue involves mental impairment.

Relevant Terms - Medical provider - Teachers Retirement Association - disability pension benefits - physician - chiropractor - physician assistant - APRN - psychologist - mental impairment - Minnesota Statutes 2024 - 354.05, 354.07, 354.48