Minnesota Senate Bill SF2022

Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/27/25
• Refer: 2/27/25

Caption

Commissioner of human services requirement to establish a minimum per diem rate for a specified psychiatrist residential treatment facility

Impact

The legislative aim of SF2022 is to strengthen the state's commitment to mental health services, particularly focusing on children and adolescents who need psychiatric support. The bill allocates $1,000,000 in fiscal year 2026 for the establishment of an 18-bed psychiatric residential treatment facility in Clay County, which is a crucial step towards addressing the specific needs of the youth in that region. These enhancements are positioned to navigate the financial burdens that facilities face, ultimately aiming to improve service delivery and outcome for vulnerable populations.

Summary

SF2022 introduces measures to enhance mental health services by requiring the commissioner of human services to establish a minimum per diem rate for psychiatric residential treatment facilities. Specifically, the bill mandates that the per diem rate for the Clay County facility must be no less than $1,800, which is intended to ensure that these facilities can operate sustainably and provide adequate services. Additionally, the bill appropriates funds from the general fund for related health initiatives, including start-up grants for psychiatric residential treatment facilities aiming to support young individuals under 21 years of age.

Contention

While the bill’s primary focus seems supported by various stakeholders in the health community, concerns regarding funding allocation and the sufficiency of the established per diem rate may arise. Critics might argue that setting a per diem rate does not fully address the financial complexities and operational challenges faced by psychiatric facilities. Opponents may also raise issues regarding the effectiveness of the proposed appropriations and whether they will adequately enhance service capacity to meet the increasing demand for mental health services.