Minnesota Senate Bill SF1892

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/20/23
• Refer: 2/20/23

Caption

Supportive housing units for people with disabilities provisions modifications

Impact

This legislation seeks to ensure that at least 70% of new supportive housing units are designated for homeless adults suffering from mental illness, substance abuse addictions, or other health challenges. By identifying key areas where state support is needed, such as Hennepin County, the bill aims to meet the growing demand for housing support programs that address the unique challenges faced by vulnerable populations, particularly those transitioning out of institutions like treatment centers.

Summary

SF1892 aims to amend Minnesota Statutes 2022, specifically section 256I.04, to modify the provisions related to supportive housing units for adults with disabilities. The bill emphasizes a moratorium on the establishment of new housing support beds with rates exceeding the MSA equivalent rate, except for specific facilities catering to chronically inebriated populations and those recovering from substance use disorders.

Contention

Notably, there are points of contention surrounding the bill's provisions. Critics argue that the strict moratorium on new housing support agreements could hinder the establishment of urgently needed facilities, particularly in regions facing significant homelessness and mental health crises. Conversely, proponents advocate that the focus on supporting existing facilities with a demographic emphasis on mental health and substance use will yield more effective resource utilization, ultimately helping to stabilize this population within the community.