SF93

Senate SF No 93 is a bill proposed in Minnesota that focuses on expanding access to MinnesotaCare, which is a state healthcare program. The bill specifically targets direct support professionals — those who provide in-home, nonprofessional long-term care to adults or persons with disabilities, funded by medical assistance programs.

Key Points of the Bill:

1. Eligibility Expansion: Direct support professionals, and their families, earning up to 400% of the federal poverty guidelines can qualify for MinnesotaCare even if they are typically ineligible, without requiring federal funding support.

2. Work Requirement: To qualify, a direct support professional must work at least 20 hours per week. However, the bill allows flexibility by permitting less than 20 hours per week for up to four weeks during the eligibility redetermination period, which occurs every six months.

3. Proof of Employment: Eligibility for MinnesotaCare under this new provision requires the direct support professional to submit proof of employment to the commissioner of human services.

4. Premiums: The bill outlines a sliding fee scale for monthly premiums based on income levels for those enrolled in MinnesotaCare. Specific provisions adjust premiums for affordability compared to benchmark plans and set a monthly premium at $80 for individuals qualifying under the new direct support professional provision. Children under 20 are exempt from these premiums.

5. Funding: The bill appropriates funds for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to cover the state-funded portion of MinnesotaCare for those qualifying under the new rules.

In summary, the bill aims to make healthcare more accessible for direct support professionals by allowing them to qualify for MinnesotaCare under special conditions, recognizing the essential services they provide to the community.