Human Services Department COVID emergency waivers extended, modified

The Department of Human Services can continue some program modifications and waivers that were allowed during the COVID-19 peacetime emergency.

Effective March 25, 2022, a new law includes a $1.03 million appropriation for an emergency temporary staffing pool, open to a variety of facilities including nursing and assisted living facilities, adult foster care, group homes and shelters.

Additionally, medical professionals can provide some services in Minnesota under out-of-state credentials.

Waivers that allow oral or written signatures by applicants for public assistance programs can continue through June 30, 2023. Waivers permitting video conferencing for some foster care visits and video oversight can continue through June 30, 2022.

The law allows state child care assistance programs to pay a provider when the center was closed due to health concerns related to COVID-19. These payments are retroactive to Nov. 1, 2021, and available until June 26, 2022. Some child-care staff distribution requirements are also relaxed.

The law is sponsored by Rep. Jennifer Schultz (DFL-Duluth) and Sen. Jim Abeler (R-Anoka).

HF2914/SF2876*/CH40

SF2876* / HF2914 / CH40