Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota Senate Bill SF2499

Introduced
3/2/23  
Refer
3/2/23  
Refer
3/16/23  

Caption

Fees provision and dismissal for certified birth records, identification cards and driver's licenses for persons treated for substance use disorder who are eligible for medical assistance

Impact

The bill's modifications to state laws are significant as they aim to improve access to critical identification documents for individuals pursuing recovery from substance use disorders. By waiving fees for birth records and identification documents, SF2499 alleviates a common obstacle faced by these individuals, which can hinder their access to employment, housing, and healthcare. Moreover, the bill mandates improvements in the substance use disorder treatment framework, including enhanced follow-up counseling and data collection on treatment effectiveness, thus elevating the standards of care in the state.

Summary

SF2499 seeks to enhance support for individuals treated for substance use disorders by modifying provisions related to certified birth records, identification cards, and driver's licenses. The bill proposes waiving fees for these documents for persons eligible for medical assistance who have been treated for substance use disorders within the past 12 months. This initiative reflects a commitment to reducing barriers for recovering individuals, facilitating their reintegration into society and improving their access to essential services.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around SF2499 appears to be positive, particularly among advocates for mental health and substance use treatment. Supporters view this bill as a proactive step towards creating a more inclusive environment for those affected by substance use disorders. They argue that removing financial barriers for obtaining necessary documentation will significantly aid in the recovery process. However, there may be concerns raised by others regarding how these changes will be funded and the potential implications for state resources.

Contention

Notable points of contention might arise around the fiscal impact of implementing SF2499, particularly regarding the increased costs associated with additional services like transition follow-up counseling and potential rate increases for treatment providers. Stakeholders may debate the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed solutions, especially in light of budget constraints. Additionally, ensuring that the transition support services reach individuals in different communities, especially those disproportionately affected by substance use disorders, could be a focal point for discussion as the bill is reviewed.

Companion Bills

MN HF2628

Similar To Fees provided and waived for certified birth records, identification cards, and driver's licenses for persons treated for substance use disorder; substance use disorder treatment plan review requirements modified; transition follow-up counseling provided; treatment rate and staffing requirements modified; temporary rate increases provided; and transition support service recommendations directed.

Previously Filed As

MN HF2628

Fees provided and waived for certified birth records, identification cards, and driver's licenses for persons treated for substance use disorder; substance use disorder treatment plan review requirements modified; transition follow-up counseling provided; treatment rate and staffing requirements modified; temporary rate increases provided; and transition support service recommendations directed.

MN HF4190

Client supports expanded, substance use disorder licensing requirements modified, reporting system created, behavioral health reimbursement modified, tax provisions modified for individuals employed in substance use disorder treatment programs, and reports required.

MN SF4276

Behavioral health provisions modifications

MN HF3495

Mental and behavioral health care provisions modified including service standards, adult and child mental health services grants, substance use disorder services, supportive housing, and provider certification and reimbursement; reports required; and money appropriated.

MN HF1995

Substance use disorder treatment provisions modified.

MN HF1994

Payment rates established for certain substance use disorder treatment services, and vendor eligibility recodified for payments from the behavioral health fund.

MN SF1692

Policies governing access to substance use disorder treatment services modification

MN HF1627

Access to substance use disorder treatment services governing policies modified, home and community-based services workforce development grants eligibility modified, and workforce development grant money excluded from income.

MN SF1826

Payment rates establishment for certain substance use disorder treatment services

MN HF4392

Human services; provisions modified relating to disability services, aging services, and substance use disorder services; Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Services Act modified; subminimum wages phased out; blood-borne pathogen provisions expanded to all state-operated treatment programs; and expired reports removed.

Similar Bills

MN HF2628

Fees provided and waived for certified birth records, identification cards, and driver's licenses for persons treated for substance use disorder; substance use disorder treatment plan review requirements modified; transition follow-up counseling provided; treatment rate and staffing requirements modified; temporary rate increases provided; and transition support service recommendations directed.

MN HF4190

Client supports expanded, substance use disorder licensing requirements modified, reporting system created, behavioral health reimbursement modified, tax provisions modified for individuals employed in substance use disorder treatment programs, and reports required.

MN SF4276

Behavioral health provisions modifications

MN HF2575

Continuing education requirements for licensed alcohol and drug counselors modified, religious objections to placements in substance use disorder treatment programs allowed, comprehensive assessment requirements modified, and courts or other placement authorities prohibited from compelling an individual to participate in religious elements of substance use disorder treatment.

MN SF271

Substance abuse counselors license requirements modifications and treatment requirements modifications

MN HF3486

Substance use disorder treatment; licensed alcohol and drug counselors continuing education requirements modified, religious objections to placements in substance use disorder treatment programs allowed, comprehensive assessment requirements modified, courts or other placement authorities prohibited from compelling an individual to participate in religious elements of substance use disorder treatment, and report required.

MN SF3459

Substance abuse disorder treatment requirements modifications

MN SF4399

Omnibus Human Services policy bill