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SF 2853

Supported decision making programs appropriation

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Erin Maye Quade

Appropriates state funds to DHS to expand supported decision making, provide training and tools, and oversee programs that empower individuals and reduce guardianship reliance.

Referred to Human Services
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Bill Summary · SF 2853

SF 2853 — Supported Decision Making Programs Appropriation (Summary)

Overview

  • Bill number: SF 2853
  • Title: Supported decision making programs appropriation
  • Status: Referred to Human Services
  • Introduced: March 20, 2025
  • Classification/Subject: Appropriations; Human Services and Minnesota Department of Human Services

This bill, by its title, proposes an appropriation to support programs related to supported decision making. The exact program design, funding level, eligible recipients, and reporting requirements are not included in the provided summary. The text would detail how the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) would implement and administer the funded activities.

Purpose and Intent

  • The bill aims to fund initiatives that promote and facilitate supported decision making as an option or enhancement to traditional decision-making arrangements for individuals who may require assistance with decisions (commonly individuals with disabilities or cognitive challenges).
  • By dedicating state funds, the bill seeks to build capacity for such programs, potentially expanding access to supports that enable individuals to participate in decisions about their lives.

Key Provisions (Based on the bill’s title and typical structure)

Note: Specific provisions are not provided in the summary. The following elements are commonly associated with a bill of this nature and would be clarified in the actual text:
- Appropriation Details: An authorization of state funds allocated to DHS (and possibly in coordination with counties or service providers) to implement supported decision making programs.
- Program Design and Activities: Establishment or expansion of programs that facilitate supported decision making, including development of decision-making agreements, training for families, advocates, and providers, and resources to assist individuals in articulating and communicating preferences.
- Recipients and Partners: Eligibility criteria for organizations to administer or participate in the programs (e.g., DHS, community-based providers, potentially counties).
- Training and Materials: Creation and dissemination of training curricula, guides, and tools to support decision-making processes.
- Oversight and Evaluation: Reporting requirements to the Legislature, performance metrics, and periodic evaluations to assess effectiveness, cost, and outcomes for participants.
- Duration and Sunset: Clarification on whether the appropriation is ongoing or time-bound, and any renewal or sunset provisions.
- Coordination: Potential alignment with other disability rights, guardianship reform, or long-term care initiatives within DHS or other state agencies.

Affected Parties

  • Individuals: People who could benefit from supported decision making (e.g., individuals with disabilities, aging adults, or those needing decision-making assistance).
  • Families and Advocates: Guardians, family members, supported decision making partners, and advocates who help implement and participate in the process.
  • Service Providers and Agencies: Minnesota Department of Human Services, counties, and nonprofit or community-based organizations involved in disability services and guardianship-related supports.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

  • Current Stage: Introduction and first reading on March 20, 2025; referred to the Human Services committee.
  • Next Steps: Committee hearings, potential amendment, floor debate, and votes. If advanced, it would move through additional legislative steps before any enactment.
  • Effective Date: To be determined in the bill text (commonly includes an effective date upon enactment or specific funding start date).

Potential Impacts

  • Could increase autonomy and participation for individuals who use supported decision making.
  • Might reduce reliance on guardianship by providing formalized supports for decision-making.
  • Introduces or expands DHS-led programs with reporting requirements and metrics to evaluate impact.
  • Requires administrative funding and potential coordination with counties and service providers.

If you can share the full bill text, I can provide a detailed, provision-by-provision analysis and a more precise impact assessment.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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