This Journal as a PDF document

The House of Representatives convened at 9:00 a.m. and was called to order by Steve Sviggum, Speaker of the House.

The colors were presented by the Minnesota Law Enforcement Memorial Association Honor Guard.

The Law Enforcement Memorial Prayer was offered by Captain Larry Klink of the Anoka County Sheriff's Office.

Prayer was offered by Father Terrence Hayes, Minneapolis Police Department Chaplain, Minneapolis, Minnesota.

The members of the House gave the pledge of allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.

The roll was called and the following members were present:

Abeler	Dorn	Holberg	Lenczewski	Otremba	Stanek
Abrams	Eastlund	Holsten	Leppik	Ozment	Stang
Anderson, B.	Entenza	Howes	Lieder	Paulsen	Swapinski
Anderson, I.	Erhardt	Huntley	Lindner	Pawlenty	Swenson
Bakk	Erickson	Jacobson	Lipman	Paymar	Sykora
Bernardy	Evans	Jaros	Luther	Pelowski	Thompson
Biernat	Finseth	Jennings	Mares	Penas	Tingelstad
Bishop	Folliard	Johnson, J.	Mariani	Peterson	Tuma
Boudreau	Fuller	Johnson, R.	Marko	Pugh	Vandeveer
Bradley	Gerlach	Johnson, S.	Marquart	Rhodes	Wagenius
Buesgens	Gleason	Juhnke	McElroy	Rifenberg	Walz
Carlson	Goodno	Kahn	McGuire	Rukavina	Wasiluk
Cassell	Goodwin	Kalis	Milbert	Ruth	Wenzel
Clark, J.	Gray	Kelliher	Molnau	Schumacher	Westerberg
Daggett	Greiling	Kielkucki	Mulder	Seagren	Westrom
Davids	Gunther	Knoblach	Mullery	Seifert	Wilkin
Davnie	Haas	Koskinen	Murphy	Sertich	Winter
Dawkins	Hackbarth	Krinkie	Ness	Skoe	Wolf
Dehler	Harder	Kubly	Nornes	Skoglund	Workman
Dempsey	Hausman	Kuisle	Olson	Slawik	Spk. Sviggum
Dibble	Hilstrom	Larson	Opatz	Smith
Dorman	Hilty	Leighton	Osskopp	Solberg

A quorum was present.

Walker was excused.

Mahoney was excused until 9:50 a.m. Osthoff was excused until 10:10 a.m. Clark, K., was excused until 10:30 a.m.

The Chief Clerk proceeded to read the Journal of the preceding day. Sertich moved that further reading of the Journal be suspended and that the Journal be approved as corrected by the Chief Clerk. The motion prevailed.

S. F. No. 1495 and H. F. No. 1547, which had been referred to the Chief Clerk for comparison, were examined and found to be identical with certain exceptions.

Finseth moved that the rules be so far suspended that S. F. No. 1495 be substituted for H. F. No. 1547 and that the House File be indefinitely postponed. The motion prevailed.

S. F. No. 1721 and H. F. No. 1886, which had been referred to the Chief Clerk for comparison, were examined and found to be identical with certain exceptions.

Kahn moved that the rules be so far suspended that S. F. No. 1721 be substituted for H. F. No. 1886 and that the House File be indefinitely postponed. The motion prevailed.

Pawlenty from the Committee on Rules and Legislative Administration to which was referred:

H. F. No. 281, A bill for an act relating to civil commitment; modifying a definition; specifying certain patient rights and examination requirements; expanding voluntary consent procedures; modifying the standard for and collection of information for an emergency hold; requiring certain hearings on neuroleptic medications to be combined with a civil commitment proceeding; amending Minnesota Statutes 2000, sections 253B.02, subdivision 13; 253B.03, subdivisions 5, 10, by adding a subdivision; 253B.04, subdivisions 1, 1a, by adding a subdivision; 253B.05, subdivision 1; 253B.066, subdivision 1; 253B.07, subdivisions 1, 2; 253B.09, subdivision 1.

Reported the same back with the recommendation that the bill pass.

Joint Rule 2.03 and Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 5 have been waived for subsequent committee action on this bill.

The report was adopted.

Bishop from the Committee on Ways and Means to which was referred:

H. F. No. 1807, A bill for an act relating to children; providing for measures to improve child support collection and enforcement; providing civil penalties; amending Minnesota Statutes 2000, sections 13B.06, subdivision 7; 256.741, subdivisions 1, 5, and 8; 256.979, subdivisions 5 and 6; 393.07, by adding a subdivision; 518.5513,

subdivision 5; 518.575, subdivision 1; 518.5851, by adding a subdivision; 518.5853, by adding a subdivision; 518.6195; 518.64, subdivision 2; 518.641, subdivisions 1, 2, 3, and by adding a subdivision; and 548.091, subdivision 1a; repealing Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 518.641, subdivisions 4 and 5.

Reported the same back with the recommendation that the bill pass.

The report was adopted.

Abrams from the Committee on Taxes to which was referred:

H. F. No. 2037, A bill for an act relating to public finance; updating and making technical changes to public finance provisions related to debt obligations, sales and use tax exemptions, county capital financing of certain equipment and hardware and software; extending a sunset date for certain county capital improvement bonds; removing election requirements as preconditions for issuance of certain obligations; authorizing some flexibility in stating certain ballot questions; amending Minnesota Statutes 2000, sections 103B.555, by adding a subdivision; 165.10, subdivision 2; 275.60; 297A.70, subdivisions 4 and 7; 297A.71, subdivision 6; 373.01, subdivision 3; 373.40, subdivision 7; 373.45, subdivision 3; 376.08, subdivisions 1, 3, and by adding a subdivision; 410.32; 412.301; 426.19, subdivision 2; 429.091, subdivision 7a; 444.075, subdivision 1a; 475.54, subdivision 1; 475.58, subdivision 1; and 475.59.

Reported the same back with the following amendments:

Delete everything after the enacting clause and insert:

"Section 1. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103B.555, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 4. [DISTRICT OBLIGATIONS.] The district, with approval of the county board or joint county authority, expressed in a resolution identifying each specific improvement to which the approval applies, may exercise the powers of a city under chapter 429 and section 444.075, including, but not limited to:

(1) the levy of special assessments;

(2) the imposition of rates and charges; and

(3) the issuance of bonds

to finance improvements that the district may undertake.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 2. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 165.10, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [BONDS ISSUED, SOLD, AND RETIRED.] Such bonds shall be general obligations of the county and issued, sold, and retired in the manner provided in chapter 475.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 3. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 275.60, is amended to read:

275.60 [LEVY OR BOND REFERENDUM; BALLOT NOTICE.]

(a) Notwithstanding any general or special law or any charter provisions, but subject to section 126C.17, subdivision 9, any question submitted to the voters by any local governmental subdivision at a general or special

election after June 8, 1995, authorizing a property tax levy or tax rate increase, including the issuance of debt obligations payable in whole or in part from property taxes, must include on the ballot the following notice in boldface type.:

"BY VOTING "YES" ON THIS BALLOT QUESTION, YOU ARE VOTING FOR A PROPERTY TAX INCREASE."

(b) For purposes of this section and section 275.61, "local governmental subdivision" includes counties, home rule and statutory cities, towns, school districts, and all special taxing districts. This statement is in addition to any general or special laws or any charter provisions that govern the contents of a ballot question and, in the case of a question on the issuance of debt obligations, may be supplemented by a description of revenues pledged to payment of the obligations that are intended as the primary source of payment.

(c) This section does not apply to a school district bond election if the debt service payments are to be made entirely from transfers of revenue from the capital fund to the debt service fund.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 4. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 373.40, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [DEFINITIONS.] For purposes of this section, the following terms have the meanings given.

(a) "Bonds" means an obligation as defined under section 475.51.

(b) "Capital improvement" means acquisition or betterment of public lands, development rights in the form of conservation easements under chapter 84C, buildings, or other improvements within the county for the purpose of a county courthouse, administrative building, health or social service facility, correctional facility, jail, law enforcement center, hospital, morgue, library, park, qualified indoor ice arena, and roads and bridges. An improvement must have an expected useful life of five years or more to qualify. "Capital improvement" does not include light rail transit, commuter rail, busway, or any activity related to it any of them, or a recreation or sports facility building (such as, but not limited to, a gymnasium, ice arena, racquet sports facility, swimming pool, exercise room or health spa), unless the building is part of an outdoor park facility and is incidental to the primary purpose of outdoor recreation.

(c) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of trade and economic development.

(d) "Metropolitan county" means a county located in the seven-county metropolitan area as defined in section 473.121 or a county with a population of 90,000 or more.

(e) "Population" means the population established by the most recent of the following (determined as of the date the resolution authorizing the bonds was adopted):

(1) the federal decennial census,

(2) a special census conducted under contract by the United States Bureau of the Census, or

(3) a population estimate made either by the metropolitan council or by the state demographer under section 4A.02.

(f) "Qualified indoor ice arena" means a facility that meets the requirements of section 373.43.

(g) "Tax capacity" means total taxable market value, but does not include captured market value. 

Sec. 5. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 373.40, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7. [REPEALER.] This section is repealed effective for bonds issued after July 1, 2003 2008, but continues to apply to bonds issued before that date.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 6. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 373.45, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3. [AGREEMENT.] (a) In order For specified debt obligations of a county to be covered by the provisions of this section, the county must enter an agreement with the authority obligating the county to be bound by the provisions of this section.

(b) This agreement must be in a form prescribed by the authority and contain any provisions required by the authority, including, at least, an obligation to:

(1) deposit with the paying agent three days before the date on which the payment is due an amount sufficient to make that payment;

(2) notify the authority, if the county will be unable to make all or a portion of the payment; and

(3) include a provision in the bond resolution and county's agreement with the paying agent for the debt obligation that requires the paying agent to inform the commissioner if it becomes aware of a default or potential default in the payment of principal or interest on that issue or if, on the day two business days before the date a payment is due on that issue, there are insufficient funds to make the payment on deposit with the paying agent.

(c) Funds invested in a refunding escrow account established under section 475.67 that are to become available to the paying agent on a principal or interest payment date are deemed to be on deposit with the paying agent three business days before the payment date.

(b) (d) The provisions of an agreement under this subdivision are binding as to an issue as long as any debt obligation of the issue remains outstanding.

(c) (e) This section is a contract with bondholders and may not be amended or repealed for the covered bonds so long as the covered bonds are outstanding and the obligations of the state under this section are not a public debt of the state under article XI, section 4, of the Minnesota Constitution, and the legislature may, at any time, choose not to appropriate amounts under subdivision 4, paragraph (b).

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 7. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 376.06, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [PROCEDURE, POWERS, PAY, ELECTION.] A county board which has purchased and constructed buildings for hospital purposes may operate these buildings as a hospital and may appoint a superintendent. The board shall set the superintendent's salary, term of employment, and powers and duties; provide for the management and operation of the hospital; and operate, control, and manage the hospital. The superintendent shall serve at the pleasure of the board. If the board determines that it is in the public interest, it may appoint a hospital board of at least three, but not more than nine members, who must be county residents and landowners, to serve may include some or all of the county commissioners except as otherwise provided in subdivision 2. Persons appointed to the hospital board must reside in the hospital's service area and 80 percent of the board members, including any commissioners appointed to serve on the hospital board, must be residents of the county. The hospital board serves without compensation unless the county board authorizes the payment of compensation and reimbursement of expenses for service on the hospital board. Notwithstanding section 375.44, if compensation and reimbursement are authorized, they shall be the same as authorized for service on the local

social services agency. Subject to its supervision, the county board may commit the care, management, and operation of the hospital to the hospital board. The county board may provide for the organization and regulation of the hospital board, its duties and the duties of the members, and regulations for the management, operation, and control of the hospital. The county board may lease the hospital grounds and buildings to a hospital association nonprofit or governmental hospital organization for terms it considers advisable. Sections 376.01 to 376.06 do not permit any county board to purchase and construct any hospital buildings or to pay for them without first submitting the question to the vote of the people. No purchase or construction of buildings or payment may be made unless a majority of the electors voting upon the proposition vote in favor.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 8. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 376.07, is amended to read:

376.07 [ADDITION TO COUNTY HOSPITAL.]

When the county board of a county has been authorized by the voters to construct an addition to the county hospital of the county under sections 376.01 to 376.06, whether or not also authorized to equip the addition, and the board has determined that the addition, whether with or without equipment, cannot be completed within the cost authorized, or has determined that, to complete the improvement, certain alterations should be made, or fixtures or equipment added, either in the original building, or in the addition, or both, the board may be authorized to spend a specified additional amount for any of the purposes mentioned in this chapter, either by vote of the people of the county at a general or special election or by petition. If an election is held, the proposition shall be submitted and disposed of in the same manner as provided by sections 376.01 to 376.06. If by petition, the petition must be signed by a majority of those voting at the last preceding general election. The petition may be in the form of one document or of several documents in the same form, and shall be filed with the county auditor. A special election may be called in the manner provided for calling special county elections. When authority is granted by the voters, in either manner provided, the board may proceed accordingly. If the board made or attempted to make a contract or contracts for more than the authority first granted, it may ratify and carry out the contracts. The county board, hospital board, or board of directors of a nonprofit or governmental hospital organization that has leased a county hospital may authorize the remodeling, improvement, alteration, or construction of an addition to the county hospital or of another building on the county hospital's existing premises by a majority vote of the board. Financing for any project under this section is governed by other law, including sections 373.40 and 447.45 and chapter 475.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 9. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 376.08, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [APPROPRIATIONS.] Except as provided in subdivision subdivisions 2 and 4, the board of county commissioners in any county with a population of 50,000 or less may appropriate up to $65,000 annually from the general revenue fund of the county for the acquisition of lands for hospital purposes, and the construction, improvement, alterations, equipment and maintenance of hospitals within the county, including public or nonprofit hospitals that are not county hospitals. The board may also appropriate up to $25,000 from the general revenue fund of the county for the acquisition of land and construction of municipally owned nursing homes within the county.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 10. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 376.08, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [REMODELING OR ADDITIONS.] A county hospital may by majority vote of its board of commissioners, or if the hospital has been leased to another entity under section 376.06, subdivision 1, or 447.47, by majority vote of the board of directors of that entity, enter into projects for the construction of an addition or remodeling to its presently existing facility or the acquisition of equipment as described in this subdivision without complying with the dollar limitation of subdivision 1 or the election requirements of section 376.03. This subdivision applies only to projects in which the funds for the project are derived from dedicated, restricted, or other

designated accounts or, from the hospital's depreciation fund and do not require incurring debt by the county through, or from the issuance of bonds or otherwise authorized under other law. An addition to a current hospital under this subdivision may include construction of buildings physically separate from the present hospital building, as well as additions to the present building, if the new buildings are constructed on the hospital's existing premises.

This subdivision does not affect the ability of the hospital board to approve funds for improvements or remodeling of a hospital facility under other law.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 11. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 376.08, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3. [LIMITATION ON HOSPITAL CAPACITY.] Section 144.551 applies to any project authorized by subdivision 2 or 4. Subdivision Subdivisions 2 does and 4 do not authorize an increase in the license capacity of the hospital or the licensing, relocation, or redistribution of hospital beds except as provided by section 144.551, subdivision 1, paragraph (b).

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 12. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 376.08, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 4. [NO ELECTION FOR EXPENDITURE OF CERTAIN BOND PROCEEDS.] Notwithstanding section 376.03, a county may by vote of the majority of the board of county commissioners acquire, construct, remodel, renovate, and equip hospital facilities to the extent of money derived from general obligation bonds authorized for that purpose by an election under section 475.58, capital improvement bonds issued under a capital improvement plan approved in accordance with section 373.40, or revenue bonds issued under sections 447.45 to 447.50.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 13. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 376.09, is amended to read:

376.09 [AID TO HOSPITALS IN COUNTIES HAVING NO COUNTY HOSPITAL.]

In any county in which there is no county hospital, or a county hospital is leased to a nonprofit or governmental hospital organization pursuant to section 376.06, subdivision 1, or 447.47, the county board may appropriate and pay money from the general fund of the county, for the construction, maintenance, and operation of a private, nonprofit, or public hospital in the county for the treatment of sick, diseased, and injured persons. Admission preference shall always be given to patients who are, in whole or in part, public charges, and are sent to the hospital by the county board.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 14. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 383B.79, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 5. [FINANCING.] Hennepin county may appropriate funds for any of the activities described in subdivision 1, whether or not state funds are appropriated for the activity. Hennepin county may include any part of the costs of a project described in section 469.002, subdivision 12, in a capital improvement plan adopted under section 373.40, and may issue bonds for such purposes pursuant to and subject to the procedures and limitations set forth in section 373.40, whether or not the capital improvement to be financed is to be owned by the county or any other governmental entity. Such purposes are in addition to the capital improvements described in section 373.40, but shall not include light rail transit, commuter rail, or any activity related to either of those, or a sports facility building designed or used primarily for professional sports. No funds appropriated under this subdivision may be used to pay operating expenses. 

Sec. 15. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 473.39, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 1h. [OBLIGATIONS.] After July 1, 2001, in addition to the authority in subdivisions 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, and 1g, the council may issue certificates of indebtedness, bonds, or other obligations under this section in an amount not exceeding $45,000,000 for capital expenditures as prescribed in the council's regional transit master plan and transit capital improvement program and for related costs, including the costs of issuance and sale of the obligations, but not for construction, maintenance, or operation of light rail transit, commuter rail, or busways.

[EFFECTIVE DATE; APPLICATION.] This section is effective the day following final enactment and applies in the counties of Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington.

Sec. 16. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.02, subdivision 8, is amended to read:

Subd. 8. [FEDERAL TAX LAW.] "Federal tax law" means those provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended through December 31, 1990, that limit the aggregate amount of obligations of a specified type or types which may be issued by an issuer during a calendar year whose interest is excluded from gross income for purposes of federal income taxation.

Sec. 17. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.02, subdivision 13a, is amended to read:

Subd. 13a. [SMALL ISSUE POOL.] "Small issue pool" means the amount of the annual volume cap allocated under section 474A.061, that is available for the issuance of enterprise zone facility bonds authorized under Public Law Number 103-66, section 13301, small issue bonds to finance manufacturing projects, and the agricultural development bond beginning farmer and agricultural business enterprise loan program authorized in sections 41C.01 to 41C.13, and student loan bonds issued by the Minnesota higher education services office.

Sec. 18. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.02, subdivision 22a, is amended to read:

Subd. 22a. [PUBLIC FACILITIES POOL.] "Public facilities pool" means the amount of the annual volume cap allocated under section 474A.061, which is available for the issuance of public facility bonds or student loan bonds.

Sec. 19. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.02, subdivision 22b, is amended to read:

Subd. 22b. [PUBLIC FACILITIES PROJECT.] "Public facilities project" means any publicly owned facility, or facility owned by a nonprofit organization that is used for district heating or cooling, that is eligible to be financed with the proceeds of public facilities bonds as defined under section 474A.02, subdivision 23a.

Sec. 20. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.02, subdivision 23a, is amended to read:

Subd. 23a. [QUALIFIED BONDS.] "Qualified bonds" means the specific type or types of obligations that are subject to the annual volume cap. Qualified bonds include the following types of obligations as defined in federal tax law:

(a) "public facility bonds" means "exempt facility bonds" as defined in federal tax law, except for residential rental project bonds, which are those obligations issued to finance airports, docks and wharves, mass commuting facilities, facilities for the furnishing of water, sewage facilities, solid waste disposal facilities, facilities for the local furnishing of electric energy or gas, local district heating or cooling facilities, and qualified hazardous waste facilities. New bonds and other obligations are ineligible to receive state allocations or entitlement authority for public facility projects under this section if they have been issued:

(1) for the purpose of refinancing, refunding, or otherwise defeasing existing debt; and

(2) more than one calendar year prior to the date of application; 

(b) "residential rental project bonds" which are those obligations issued to finance qualified residential rental projects;

(c) "mortgage bonds";

(d) "small issue bonds" issued to finance manufacturing projects and the acquisition or improvement of agricultural real or personal property under sections 41C.01 to 41C.13;

(e) "student loan bonds" issued by or on behalf of the Minnesota higher education services office;

(f) "redevelopment bonds";

(g) "governmental bonds" with a nonqualified amount in excess of $15,000,000 as set forth in section 141(b)5 of federal tax law; and

(h) "enterprise zone facility bonds" issued to finance facilities located within empowerment zones or enterprise communities, as authorized under Public Law Number 103-66, section 13301.

Sec. 21. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.03, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [UNDER FEDERAL TAX LAW; ALLOCATIONS.] At the beginning of each calendar year after December 31, 1997 2001, the commissioner shall determine the aggregate dollar amount of the annual volume cap under federal tax law for the calendar year, and of this amount the commissioner shall make the following allocation:

(1) $63,000,000 $74,530,000 to the small issue pool;

(2) $59,000,000 $122,060,000 to the housing pool, $37,000,000 of which 31 percent of the adjusted allocation is reserved until the day after the first last Monday in February July for single-family housing programs;

(3) $10,500,000 $12,750,000 to the public facilities pool; and

(4) amounts to be allocated as provided in subdivision 2a.

If the annual volume cap is greater or less than the amount of bonding authority allocated under clauses (1) to (4) and subdivision 2a, paragraph (a), clauses (1) to (4), the allocation must be adjusted so that each adjusted allocation is the same percentage of the annual volume cap as each original allocation is of the total bonding authority originally allocated.

Sec. 22. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.03, subdivision 2a, is amended to read:

Subd. 2a. [ENTITLEMENT ISSUER ALLOCATION.] (a) The commissioner shall make the following allocation to the Minnesota housing finance agency and the following cities and county:

(1) $53,750,000 $84,940,000 per year to the Minnesota housing finance agency, less any amount received in the previous year under section 474A.091, subdivision 6;

(2) $21,000,000 $33,190,000 per year to the city of Minneapolis;

(3) $15,750,000 $24,890,000 per year to the city of Saint Paul; and

(4) $10,500,000 $16,600,000 per year to the Dakota county community development agency for the county of Dakota and all political subdivisions located within the county. 

(b) Entitlement allocations provided under this subdivision must be used for mortgage bonds, mortgage credit certificates, public facility bonds, or residential rental project bonds, except that entitlement issuers may also use their allocations for public facility bonds, and may carry forward their allocations for any qualified bond as defined under section 474A.02, subdivision 23a.

(c) Data on the home purchase price amount, mortgage amount, income, household size, and race of the households served with the proceeds of mortgage revenue bonds and mortgage credit certificates in the previous year must be submitted by each entitlement issuer to the Minnesota housing finance agency by December 31 of each year. Compliance by the Minnesota housing finance agency with the provisions of section 462A.073, subdivision 5, shall be deemed compliance with the reporting requirements of this subdivision.

Sec. 23. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.03, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4. [APPLICATION FEE.] Every entitlement issuer and other issuer shall pay to the commissioner a nonrefundable application fee to offset the state cost of program administration. The application fee is $20 for each $100,000 of entitlement or allocation requested, with the request rounded to the nearest $100,000. The minimum fee is $20. Fees received by the commissioner must be credited to the general fund. Application fees for projects of entitlement issuers must be submitted to the commissioner with the notice of issuance of bonds, notice of use of mortgage credit certificates, and notice of carry forward. Each entitlement issuer must pay its application fee in full for that calendar year to the commissioner no later than when the first notice of issuance of bonds, notice of use of mortgage credit certificates, or notice of carry forward is submitted to the commissioner by that issuer.

Sec. 24. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.04, subdivision 1a, is amended to read:

Subd. 1a. [ENTITLEMENT RESERVATIONS; CARRYFORWARD; DEDUCTION.] Any amount returned by an entitlement issuer before July 15 shall be reallocated through the housing pool. Any amount returned on or after July 15 shall be reallocated through the unified pool. An amount returned after the last Monday in November shall be reallocated to the Minnesota housing finance agency. Any amount of bonding authority that an entitlement issuer carries forward under federal tax law that is not permanently issued or for which the governing body of the entitlement issuer has not enacted a resolution electing to use the authority for mortgage credit certificates by July 15 and has not provided a notice of issue to the commissioner before 4:30 p.m. on the last business day in December of the succeeding calendar year shall be deducted from the entitlement allocation for that entitlement issuer for the current calendar year. Any amount deducted from an entitlement issuer's allocation under this subdivision shall be reallocated through the unified pool. An entitlement issuer must permanently issue all carryforward authority or enact a resolution electing to use all carryforward authority for mortgage credit certificates prior to issuing any current year authority of that entitlement issuer in the next succeeding calendar year. Any amount deducted from an entitlement issuer's allocation under this subdivision shall be reallocated to other entitlement issuers, the housing pool, the small issue pool, and the public facilities pool on a proportional basis consistent with section 474A.03.

Sec. 25. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.04, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5. [NOTICE OF ENTITLEMENT ALLOCATION.] As soon as possible in each calendar year, the commissioner shall provide to each entitlement issuer a written notice of the amount of its post on the department's Web site the amount of each entitlement allocation.

Sec. 26. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.045, is amended to read:

474A.045 [SCORING SYSTEM FOR ENTERPRISE ZONE FACILITY PROJECTS AND MANUFACTURING PROJECTS.]

The following criteria must be used in determining the allocation of enterprise zone facility bonds and small issue bonds for manufacturing projects. The issuer must prepare and submit to the commissioner a public purpose scoring worksheet that presents the data and methods used in determining the total score under this section. The total score is the sum of the following:

(1) the number of direct new jobs in the state generated by the proposed project for the next two years per $100,000 of proposed allocation multiplied by 15; 

(2) the number of direct existing jobs in the state multiplied by .625 due to the proposed project for the next two years per $100,000 of proposed allocation multiplied by 15;

(3) the average hourly wage paid to employees by the proposed project for the next two years, exclusive of benefits mandated by law, based on the following scale:

Wages paid per hour $ 8 $10 $12 $15

Non-Metro area points awarded 10 15 20 20

Seven-County Metro Area

points awarded 0 10 15 20

For purposes of this section, the seven-county metropolitan area includes Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, and Washington counties;

(4) the quotient of the estimated total net increase in property taxes generated in the state by the project in the first full year of operation divided by the proposed bond allocation, multiplied by 500; and

(5) the seasonally unadjusted unemployment rate in the community where the proposed project is located measured as a percent of the state's unemployment rate, multiplied by ten.

The community seasonally unadjusted unemployment rate used in determining the points under clause (5) must be the most recent rate for the city or county in which the proposed project is located, as provided by the commissioner of economic security.

(6) 20 points for projects that locate in an incorporated area or a planned urban growth area as defined by section 462.352, subdivision 18;

(7) 20 points for brownfield projects located in a state or federal Superfund site, a voluntary investigation and cleanup site, or a brownfield site, all as defined by the Minnesota pollution control agency; and

(8) 20 points for projects with favorable environmental citizenship as evidenced by no nonforgivable or combination administrative penalty orders, stipulation agreements, consent decrees, or other enforcement orders containing a monetary penalty by the Minnesota pollution control agency over the past three years or pending at the time of application.

Sec. 27. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.047, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [ELIGIBILITY.] (a) An issuer may only use the proceeds from residential rental bonds if the proposed project meets one of the following requirements:

(1) the proposed project is a single room occupancy project and all the units of the project will be occupied by individuals whose incomes at the time of their initial residency in the project are 50 percent or less of the greater of the statewide or county median income adjusted for household size as determined by the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development;

(2) the proposed project is a multifamily project where at least 75 percent of the units have two or more bedrooms and at least one-third of the 75 percent have three or more bedrooms; or

(3) the proposed project is a multifamily project that meets the following requirements:

(i) the proposed project is the rehabilitation of an existing building which meets the requirements for minimum rehabilitation expenditures in sections 42(e)(2) and 42(e)(3)(A) of the Internal Revenue Code; 

(ii) the proposed project involves participation by the Minnesota housing finance agency or a local unit of government in the financing of the acquisition or rehabilitation of the project. For purposes of this subdivision, "participation" means an activity other than the issuance of the bonds; and

(iii) the proposed project must be occupied by individuals or families whose incomes at the time of their initial residency in the project meet the requirements of section 42(g) of the Internal Revenue Code.

(1) the proposed residential rental project meets the requirements of section 142(d) of the Internal Revenue Code regarding the incomes of the occupants of the housing; and

(2) the maximum rent for at least 20 percent of the units in the proposed residential rental project do not exceed the area fair market rent or exception fair market rents for existing housing, if applicable, as established by the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development.

(b) The maximum rent for a proposed single room occupancy unit under paragraph (a), clause (1), is 30 percent of the amount equal to 30 percent of the greater of the statewide or county median income for a one-member household as determined by the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development. The maximum rent for at least 75 percent of the units of a multifamily project under paragraph (a), clause (2), is 30 percent of the amount equal to 50 percent of the greater of the statewide or county median income as determined by the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development based on a household size with 1.5 persons per bedroom.

(c) The proceeds from residential rental bonds may be used for a project for which project-based federal rental assistance payments are made only if:

(1) the owner of the project enters into a binding agreement with the Minnesota housing finance agency under which the owner is obligated to extend any existing low-income affordability restrictions and any contract or agreement for rental assistance payments for the maximum term permitted, including any renewals thereof; and

(2) the Minnesota housing finance agency certifies that project reserves will be maintained at closing of the bond issue and budgeted in future years at the lesser of:

(i) the level described in Minnesota Rules, part 4900.0010, subpart 7, item A, subitem (2), effective May 1, 1997; or

(ii) the level of project reserves available prior to the bond issue, provided that additional money is available to accomplish repairs and replacements needed at the time of bond issue.

Sec. 28. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.047, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [15-YEAR AGREEMENT.] Prior to the issuance of residential rental bonds, the developer of the project for which the bond proceeds will be used must enter into a 15-year agreement with the issuer that specifies the maximum rental rates of the rent-restricted units in the project and the income levels of the residents of the project occupying income-restricted units. The Such rental rates and income levels must be within the limitations established under subdivision 1. The developer must annually certify to the issuer over the term of the agreement that the rental rates for the rent-restricted units are within the limitations under subdivision 1. The issuer may request individual certification of the income of all residents of the project income-restricted units. The commissioner may request from the issuer a copy of the annual certification prepared by the developer. The commissioner may require the issuer to request individual certification of all residents of the project income-restricted units.

Sec. 29. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.061, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [APPLICATION.] (a) An issuer may apply for an allocation under this section by submitting to the department an application on forms provided by the department, accompanied by (1) a preliminary resolution, (2) a statement of bond counsel that the proposed issue of obligations requires an allocation under this chapter and

the Internal Revenue Code, (3) the type of qualified bonds to be issued, (4) an application deposit in the amount of one percent of the requested allocation before the last Monday in July, or in the amount of two percent of the requested allocation on or after the last Monday in July, (5) a public purpose scoring worksheet for manufacturing project and enterprise zone facility project applications, and (6) for residential rental projects, a statement from the applicant or bond counsel as to whether the project preserves existing federally subsidized housing for residential rental project applications and whether the project is restricted to persons who are 55 years of age or older. The issuer must pay the application deposit by a check made payable to the department of finance. The Minnesota housing finance agency, the Minnesota rural finance authority, and the Minnesota higher education services office may apply for and receive an allocation under this section without submitting an application deposit.

(b) An entitlement issuer may not apply for an allocation from the housing pool or from the public facilities pool unless it has either permanently issued bonds equal to the amount of its entitlement allocation for the current year plus any amount of bonding authority carried forward from previous years or returned for reallocation all of its unused entitlement allocation. For purposes of this subdivision, its entitlement allocation includes an amount obtained under section 474A.04, subdivision 6. This paragraph does not apply to an application from the Minnesota housing finance agency for an allocation under subdivision 2a for cities who choose to have the agency issue bonds on their behalf.

(c) If an application is rejected under this section, the commissioner must notify the applicant and return the application deposit to the applicant within 30 days unless the applicant requests in writing that the application be resubmitted. The granting of an allocation of bonding authority under this section must be evidenced by a certificate of allocation.

Sec. 30. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.061, subdivision 2a, is amended to read:

Subd. 2a. [HOUSING POOL ALLOCATION.] (a) On the first business day that falls on a Monday of the calendar year and the first Monday in February Commencing on the second Tuesday in January and continuing on each Monday through July 15, the commissioner shall allocate available bonding authority in from the housing pool to applications received by on or before the Monday of the previous preceding week for residential rental projects that are not restricted to persons who are 55 years of age or older and that meet the eligibility criteria under section 474A.047, except that allocations may be made to projects that are restricted to persons who are 55 years of age or older, if the project preserves existing federally subsidized housing. Projects that preserve existing federally subsidized housing shall be allocated available bonding authority in the housing pool for residential rental projects prior to the allocation of available bonding authority to other eligible residential rental projects. Allocations of available bonding authority from the housing pool for eligible residential rental projects shall be awarded in the following order of priority: (1) projects that preserve existing federally subsidized housing; (2) projects that are not restricted to persons who are 55 years of age or older; and (3) other residential rental projects. Prior to May 15, no allocation shall be made to a project restricted to persons who are 55 years of age or older. If an issuer that receives an allocation under this paragraph does not issue obligations equal to all or a portion of the allocation received within 120 days of the allocation or returns the allocation to the commissioner, the amount of the allocation is canceled and returned for reallocation through the housing pool or to the unified pool after July 15.

(b) After February January 1, and through February January 15, the Minnesota housing finance agency may accept applications from cities for single-family housing programs which meet program requirements as follows:

(1) the housing program must meet a locally identified housing need and be economically viable;

(2) the adjusted income of home buyers may not exceed 80 percent of the greater of statewide or area median income as published by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, adjusted for household size;

(3) house price limits may not exceed the federal price limits established for mortgage revenue bond programs. Data on the home purchase price amount, mortgage amount, income, household size, and race of the households served in the previous year's single-family housing program, if any, must be included in each application; and 

(4) for applicants who choose to have the agency issue bonds on their behalf, an application fee pursuant to section 474A.03, subdivision 4, and an application deposit equal to one percent of the requested allocation must be submitted to the Minnesota housing finance agency before the agency forwards the list specifying the amounts allocated to the commissioner under paragraph (c) (d). The agency shall submit the city's application fee and application deposit to the commissioner when requesting an allocation from the housing pool.

Applications by a consortium shall include the name of each member of the consortium and the amount of allocation requested by each member.

The Minnesota housing finance agency may accept applications from June 15 through June 30 from cities for single-family housing programs which meet program requirements specified under clauses (1) to (4) if bonding authority is available in the housing pool. Applications will be accepted from June 15 to June 30 only from cities that received an allotment in the same calendar year and used at least 75 percent of their allotment by June 1.

(c) Any amounts remaining in the housing pool after July 15 are available for single-family housing programs for cities that applied in January and received an allocation under this section in the same calendar year. For a city that chooses to issue bonds on its own behalf or pursuant to a joint powers agreement, the agency must allot available bonding authority based on the formula in paragraphs (d) and (f). Allocations will be made loan by loan, on a first come, first served basis among applicant cities on whose behalf the Minnesota housing finance agency issues bonds. The agency must allot available bonding authority.

Any city that received an allocation pursuant to paragraph (f) in the same calendar year that wishes to issue bonds on its own behalf or pursuant to a joint powers agreement for an amount becoming available for single-family housing programs after July 15 shall notify the Minnesota housing finance agency by July 15. The Minnesota housing finance agency shall notify each city making a request of the amount of its allocation within three business days after July 15. The city must comply with paragraph (f).

For purposes of paragraphs (a) to (g) (h), "city" means a county or a consortium of local government units that agree through a joint powers agreement to apply together for single-family housing programs, and has the meaning given it in section 462C.02, subdivision 6. "Agency" means the Minnesota housing finance agency.

(c) (d) The total amount of allocation for mortgage bonds for one city is limited to the lesser of: (i) the amount requested, or (ii) the product of the total amount available for mortgage bonds from the housing pool, multiplied by the ratio of each applicant's population as determined by the most recent estimate of the city's population released by the state demographer's office to the total of all the applicants' population, except that each applicant shall be allocated a minimum of $100,000 regardless of the amount requested or the amount determined under the formula in clause (ii). If a city applying for an allocation is located within a county that has also applied for an allocation, the city's population will be deducted from the county's population in calculating the amount of allocations under this paragraph.

Upon determining the amount of each applicant's allocation, the agency shall forward to the commissioner a list specifying the amounts allotted to each application and application deposit checks to the commissioner with all application fees and deposits from applicants who choose to have the agency issue bonds on their behalf.

Total allocations from the housing pool for single-family housing programs may not exceed 31 percent of the adjusted allocation to the housing pool until after July 15.

(d) (e) The agency may issue bonds on behalf of participating cities. The agency shall request an allocation from the commissioner for all applicants who choose to have the agency issue bonds on their behalf and the commissioner shall allocate the requested amount to the agency. The agency may request an allocation at any time after the first Monday second Tuesday in February January and through the last Monday in July, but may request an allocation no later than the last Monday in July. After awarding an allocation and receiving a notice of issuance for the mortgage bonds issued on behalf of the participating cities, the commissioner shall transfer the application deposits

to the Minnesota housing finance agency to be returned to the participating cities. The commissioner Minnesota housing finance agency shall return any application deposit to a city that paid an application deposit under paragraph (b), clause (4), but was not part of the list forwarded to the commissioner under paragraph (c) (d).

(e) (f) A city may choose to issue bonds on its own behalf or through a joint powers agreement or may use bonding authority for mortgage credit certificates and may request an allocation from the commissioner by forwarding an application with an application fee pursuant to section 474A.03, subdivision 4, and a one percent application deposit to the commissioner no later than the Monday of the week preceding an allocation. If the total amount requested by all applicants exceeds the amount available in the pool, the city may not receive a greater allocation than the amount it would have received under the list forwarded by the Minnesota housing finance agency to the commissioner. No city may request or receive an allocation from the commissioner until the list under paragraph (c) (d) has been forwarded to the commissioner. A city must request an allocation from the commissioner no later than 14 days before the unified pool is created pursuant to section 474A.091, subdivision 1 the last Monday in July. On and after the first Monday in February and through the last Monday in July, No city may receive an allocation from the housing pool for mortgage bonds which has not first applied to the Minnesota housing finance agency. The commissioner shall allocate the requested amount to the city or cities subject to the limitations under this paragraph.

If a city issues mortgage bonds from an allocation received under this paragraph, the issuer must provide for the recycling of funds into new loans. If the issuer is not able to provide for recycling, the issuer must notify the commissioner in writing of the reason that recycling was not possible and the reason the issuer elected not to have the Minnesota housing finance agency issue the bonds. "Recycling" means the use of money generated from the repayment and prepayment of loans for further eligible loans or for the redemption of bonds and the issuance of current refunding bonds.

(f) (g) No entitlement city or county or city in an entitlement county may apply for or be allocated authority to issue mortgage bonds or use mortgage credit certificates from the housing pool. No city in an entitlement county may apply for or be allocated authority to issue residential rental bonds from the housing pool or the unified pool.

(g) (h) A city that does not use at least 50 percent of its allotment by the date applications are due for the first allocation that is made from the housing pool for single-family housing programs in the immediately succeeding calendar year may not apply to the housing pool for a single-family mortgage bond or mortgage credit certificate program allocation that exceeds the amount of its allotment for the preceding year that was used by the city in the immediately preceding year or receive an allotment from the housing pool in the succeeding calendar year that exceeds the amount of its allotment for the preceding year that was used in the preceding year. The minimum allotment is $100,000 for an allocation made prior to July 15, regardless of the amount used in the preceding calendar year, except that a city whose allocation in the preceding year was the minimum amount of $100,000 and who did not use at least 50 percent of its allocation from the preceding year is ineligible for an allocation in the immediate succeeding calendar year. Each local government unit in a consortium must meet the requirements of this paragraph.

Sec. 31. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.061, subdivision 2b, is amended to read:

Subd. 2b. [SMALL ISSUE POOL ALLOCATION.] On the first Monday in January that is a business day through the last Monday in July Commencing on the second Tuesday in January and continuing on each Monday through the last Monday in July, the commissioner shall allocate available bonding authority from the small issue pool on Monday of each week to applications received on or before the Monday of the preceding week for manufacturing projects and enterprise zone facility projects. From the first Monday in January that is a business day second Tuesday in January through the last Monday in July, the commissioner shall reserve $5,000,000 of the available bonding authority from the small issue pool for applications for agricultural development bond loan projects of the Minnesota rural finance authority.

Beginning in calendar year 2002, on the second Tuesday in January through the last Monday in July, the commissioner shall reserve $10,000,000 of available bonding authority in the small issue pool for applications for student loan bonds of or on behalf of the Minnesota higher education services office. The total amount of allocations for student loan bonds from the small issue pool may not exceed $10,000,000 per year. 

The commissioner shall reserve $10,000,000 until the day after the last Monday in February, $10,000,000 until the day after the last Monday in April, and $10,000,000 until the day after the last Monday in June in the small issue pool for enterprise zone facility projects and manufacturing projects. The amount of allocation provided to an issuer for a specific enterprise zone facility project or manufacturing project will be based on the number of points received for the proposed project under the scoring system under section 474A.045. Proposed projects that receive 50 points or more are eligible for all of the proposed allocation. Proposed projects that receive less than 50 points are eligible to receive a proportionally reduced share of the proposed authority, based upon the number of points received.

If there are two or more applications for manufacturing and enterprise zone facility projects from the small issue pool and there is insufficient bonding authority to provide allocations for all projects in any one week, the available bonding authority shall be awarded based on the number of points awarded a project under section 474A.045, with those projects receiving the greatest number of points receiving allocation first. If two or more applications receive an equal number of points, available bonding authority shall be awarded by lot unless otherwise agreed to by the respective issuers.

Sec. 32. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.061, subdivision 2c, is amended to read:

Subd. 2c. [PUBLIC FACILITIES POOL ALLOCATION.] From the beginning of the calendar year and continuing for a period of 120 days, the commissioner shall reserve $5,000,000 $3,000,000 of the available bonding authority from the public facilities pool for applications for public facilities projects to be financed by the Western Lake Superior Sanitary District. On the first Monday in January that is a business day through the last Monday in July Commencing on the second Tuesday in January and continuing on each Monday through the last Monday in July, the commissioner shall allocate available bonding authority from the public facilities pool on Monday of each week to applications for eligible public facilities projects received on or before the Monday of the preceding week. If there are two or more applications for public facilities projects from the pool and there is insufficient available bonding authority to provide allocations for all projects in any one week, the available bonding authority shall be awarded by lot unless otherwise agreed to by the respective issuers.

Sec. 33. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.061, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4. [RETURN OF ALLOCATION; DEPOSIT REFUND.] (a) If an issuer that receives an allocation under this section determines that it will not issue obligations equal to all or a portion of the allocation received under this section within 120 days of allocation or within the time period permitted by federal tax law, whichever is less, the issuer must notify the department. If the issuer notifies the department or the 120-day period since allocation has expired prior to the last Monday in July, the amount of allocation is canceled and returned for reallocation through the pool from which it was originally allocated. If the issuer notifies the department or the 120-day period since allocation has expired on or after the last Monday in July, the amount of allocation is canceled and returned for reallocation through the unified pool. If the issuer notifies the department after the last Monday in November, the amount of allocation is canceled and returned for reallocation to the Minnesota housing finance agency. To encourage a competitive application process, the commissioner shall reserve, for new applications, the amount of allocation that is canceled and returned for reallocation under this section for a minimum of seven calendar days.

(b) An issuer that returns for reallocation all or a portion of an allocation received under this section within 120 days of allocation shall receive within 30 days a refund equal to:

(1) one-half of the application deposit for the amount of bonding authority returned within 30 days of receiving allocation;

(2) one-fourth of the application deposit for the amount of bonding authority returned between 31 and 60 days of receiving allocation; and

(3) one-eighth of the application deposit for the amount of bonding authority returned between 61 and 120 days of receiving allocation. 

(c) No refund shall be available for allocations returned 120 or more days after receiving the allocation or beyond the last Monday in November. This subdivision does not apply to the Minnesota housing finance agency or the Minnesota rural finance authority.

Sec. 34. [474A.062] [HESO 120-DAY ISSUANCE EXEMPTION.]

The Minnesota higher education services office is exempt from the 120-day issuance requirements in this chapter and may carry forward allocations for student loan bonds into three successive calendar years, subject to carryforward notice requirements of section 474A.131, subdivision 2. The maximum cumulative carryforward is limited to $25,000,000.

Sec. 35. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.091, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [APPLICATION.] Issuers may apply for an allocation under this section by submitting to the department an application on forms provided by the department accompanied by (1) a preliminary resolution, (2) a statement of bond counsel that the proposed issue of obligations requires an allocation under this chapter and the Internal Revenue Code, (3) the type of qualified bonds to be issued, (4) an application deposit in the amount of two percent of the requested allocation, and (5) a public purpose scoring worksheet for manufacturing and enterprise zone applications, and (6) for residential rental projects, a statement from the applicant or bond counsel as to whether the project preserves existing federally subsidized housing and whether the project is restricted to persons who are 55 years of age or older. The issuer must pay the application deposit by check. An entitlement issuer may not apply for an allocation for public facility bonds, residential rental project bonds, or mortgage bonds under this section unless it has either permanently issued bonds equal to the amount of its entitlement allocation for the current year plus any amount carried forward from previous years or returned for reallocation all of its unused entitlement allocation. For purposes of this subdivision, its entitlement allocation includes an amount obtained under section 474A.04, subdivision 6.

Notwithstanding the restrictions imposed on entitlement issuers under this subdivision, the Minnesota housing finance agency may not apply for receive an allocation for mortgage bonds under this section until after prior to the last first Monday in August. Notwithstanding the restrictions imposed on unified pool allocations after September 1 under subdivision 3, paragraph (c)(2), the Minnesota housing finance agency October, but may be awarded allocations for mortgage bonds from the unified pool on or after September 1 the first Monday in October. The Minnesota housing finance agency, the Minnesota higher education services office, and the Minnesota rural finance authority may apply for and receive an allocation under this section without submitting an application deposit.

Sec. 36. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.091, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3. [ALLOCATION PROCEDURE.] (a) The commissioner shall allocate available bonding authority under this section on the Monday of every other week beginning with the first Monday in August through and on the last Monday in November. Applications for allocations must be received by the department by 4:30 p.m. on the Monday preceding the Monday on which allocations are to be made. If a Monday falls on a holiday, the allocation will be made or the applications must be received by the next business day after the holiday.

(b) On or before September 1, allocations shall be awarded from the unified pool in the following order of priority:

(1) applications for enterprise zone facility bonds;

(2) applications for small issue bonds for manufacturing projects;

(3) applications for small issue bonds for agricultural development bond loan projects;

(4) applications for residential rental project bonds;

(5) applications for public facility projects funded by public facility bonds; 

(6) applications for redevelopment bonds;

(7) applications for mortgage bonds; and

(8) applications for governmental bonds.

Allocations for residential rental projects may only be made during the first allocation in August. The amount of allocation provided to an issuer for a specific manufacturing project will be based on the number of points received for the proposed project under the scoring system under section 474A.045. Proposed manufacturing projects that receive 50 points or more are eligible for all of the proposed allocation. Proposed manufacturing projects that receive less than 50 points under section 474A.045 are only eligible to receive a proportionally reduced share of the proposed authority, based upon the number of points received.

(b) Prior to October 1, only the following applications shall be awarded allocations from the unified pool. Allocations shall be awarded in the following order of priority:

(1) applications for residential rental project bonds;

(2) applications for small issue bonds for manufacturing projects; and

(3) applications for small issue bonds for agricultural development bond loan projects.

(c) On the first Monday in October through the last Monday in November, allocations shall be awarded from the unified pool in the following order of priority:

(1) applications for student loan bonds issued by or on behalf of the Minnesota higher education services office;

(2) applications for mortgage bonds;

(3) applications for public facility projects funded by public facility bonds;

(4) applications for small issue bonds for manufacturing projects;

(5) applications for small issue bonds for agricultural development bond loan projects;

(6) applications for residential rental project bonds;

(7) applications for enterprise zone facility bonds;

(8) applications for governmental bonds; and

(9) applications for redevelopment bonds.

(d) If there are two or more applications for manufacturing projects from the unified pool and there is insufficient bonding authority to provide allocations for all manufacturing projects in any one allocation period, the available bonding authority shall be awarded based on the number of points awarded a project under section 474A.045 with those projects receiving the greatest number of points receiving allocation first. If two or more applications for manufacturing projects receive an equal amount of points, available bonding authority shall be awarded by lot unless otherwise agreed to by the respective issuers.

(e) If there are two or more applications for enterprise zone facility projects from the unified pool and there is insufficient bonding authority to provide allocations for all enterprise zone facility projects in any one allocation period, the available bonding authority shall be awarded based on the number of points awarded a project under

section 474A.045 with those projects receiving the greatest number of points receiving allocation first. If two or more applications for enterprise zone facility projects receive an equal amount of points, available bonding authority shall be awarded by lot unless otherwise agreed to by the respective issuers.

(f) If there are two or more applications for residential rental projects from the unified pool and there is insufficient bonding authority to provide allocations for all residential rental projects in any one allocation period, the available bonding authority shall be awarded in the following order of priority: (1) projects that preserve existing federally subsidized housing; (2) projects that are not restricted to persons who are 55 years of age or older; and (3) other residential rental projects.

(c)(1) (g) From the first Monday in August through the last Monday in November, $20,000,000 of bonding authority or an amount equal to the total annual amount of bonding authority allocated to the small issue pool under section 474A.03, subdivision 1, less the amount allocated to issuers from the small issue pool for that year, whichever is less, is reserved within the unified pool for small issue bonds to the extent such amounts are available within the unified pool. On the first Monday in September through the last Monday in November, $2,500,000 of bonding authority or an amount equal to the total annual amount of bonding authority allocated to the public facilities pool under section 474A.03, subdivision 1, less the amount allocated to issuers from the public facilities pool for that year, whichever is less, is reserved within the unified pool for public facility bonds to the extent such amounts are available within the unified pool.

(2) (h) The total amount of allocations for mortgage bonds from the housing pool and the unified pool may not exceed:

(i) (1) $10,000,000 for any one city; or

(ii) (2) $20,000,000 for any number of cities in any one county.

An allocation for mortgage bonds may be used for mortgage credit certificates.

(d) After September 1, allocations shall be awarded from the unified pool only for the following types of qualified bonds: small issue bonds, public facility bonds to finance publicly owned facility projects, residential rental project bonds, and enterprise zone facility bonds.

(i) The total amount of allocations for student loan bonds from the unified pool may not exceed $10,000,000 per year.

(j) If there is insufficient bonding authority to fund all projects within any qualified bond category other than enterprise zone facility projects, manufacturing projects, and residential rental projects, allocations shall be awarded by lot unless otherwise agreed to by the respective issuers.

(k) If an application is rejected, the commissioner must notify the applicant and return the application deposit to the applicant within 30 days unless the applicant requests in writing that the application be resubmitted.

(l) The granting of an allocation of bonding authority under this section must be evidenced by issuance of a certificate of allocation.

Sec. 37. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.091, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 3a. [MORTGAGE BONDS.] (a) Bonding authority remaining in the unified pool on October 1 is available for single-family housing programs for cities that applied in January and received an allocation under section 474A.061, subdivision 2a, in the same calendar year. The Minnesota housing finance agency shall receive an allocation for mortgage bonds pursuant to this section, minus any amounts for a city or consortium that intends to issue bonds on its own behalf under paragraph (c). 

(b) The agency may issue bonds on behalf of participating cities. The agency shall request an allocation from the commissioner for all applicants who choose to have the agency issue bonds on their behalf and the commissioner shall allocate the requested amount to the agency. Allocations shall be awarded by the commissioner each Monday commencing on the first Monday in October through the last Monday in November for applications received by 4:30 p.m. on the Monday of the week preceding an allocation.

For cities who choose to have the agency issue bonds on their behalf, allocations will be made loan by loan, on a first come, first served basis among the cities. The agency shall submit an application fee pursuant to section 474A.03, subdivision 4, and an application deposit equal to two percent of the requested allocation to the commissioner when requesting an allocation from the unified pool. After awarding an allocation and receiving a notice of issuance for mortgage bonds issued on behalf of the participating cities, the commissioner shall transfer the application deposit to the Minnesota housing finance agency.

For purposes of paragraphs (a) to (d), "city" means a county or a consortium of local government units that agree through a joint powers agreement to apply together for single-family housing programs, and has the meaning given it in section 462C.02, subdivision 6. "Agency" means the Minnesota housing finance agency.

(c) Any city that received an allocation pursuant to section 474A.061, subdivision 2a, paragraph (f), in the current year that wishes to receive an additional allocation from the unified pool and issue bonds on its own behalf or pursuant to a joint powers agreement shall notify the Minnesota housing finance agency by the third Monday in September. The total amount of allocation for mortgage bonds for a city choosing to issue bonds on its own behalf or through a joint powers agreement is limited to the lesser of: (i) the amount requested, or (ii) the product of the total amount available for mortgage bonds from the unified pool, multiplied by the ratio of the population of each city that applied in January and received an allocation under section 474A.061, subdivision 2a, in the same calendar year, as determined by the most recent estimate of the city's population released by the state demographer's office to the total of the population of all the cities that applied in January and received an allocation under section 474A.061, subdivision 2a, in the same calendar year. If a city choosing to issue bonds on its own behalf or through a joint powers agreement is located within a county that has also chosen to issue bonds on its own behalf or through a joint powers agreement, the city's population will be deducted from the county's population in calculating the amount of allocations under this paragraph.

The Minnesota housing finance agency shall notify each city choosing to issue bonds on its own behalf or pursuant to a joint powers agreement of the amount of its allocation by October 15. Upon determining the amount of the allocation of each choosing to issue bonds on its own behalf or through a joint powers agreement, the agency shall forward a list specifying the amounts allotted to each city.

A city that chooses to issue bonds on its own behalf or through a joint powers agreement may request an allocation from the commissioner by forwarding an application with an application fee pursuant to section 474A.03, subdivision 4, and an application deposit equal to two percent of the requested amount to the commissioner no later than 4:30 p.m. on the Monday of the week preceding an allocation. Allocations to cities that choose to issue bonds on their own behalf shall be awarded by the commissioner on the first Monday after October 15 through the last Monday in November. No city may receive an allocation from the commissioner after the last Monday in November. The commissioner shall allocate the requested amount to the city or cities subject to the limitations under this subdivision.

If a city issues mortgage bonds from an allocation received under this paragraph, the issuer must provide for the recycling of funds into new loans. If the issuer is not able to provide for recycling, the issuer must notify the commissioner in writing of the reason that recycling was not possible and the reason the issuer elected not to have the Minnesota housing finance agency issue the bonds. "Recycling" means the use of money generated from the repayment and prepayment of loans for further eligible loans or for the redemption of bonds and the issuance of current refunding bonds.

(d) No entitlement city or county or city in an entitlement county may apply for or be allocated authority to issue mortgage bonds or use mortgage credit certificates from the unified pool. 

(e) An allocation awarded to the agency for mortgage bonds under this section may be carried forward by the agency into the next succeeding calendar year subject to notice requirements under section 474A.131 and is available until the last business day in December of that succeeding calendar year.

Sec. 38. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.091, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4. [MORTGAGE BONDS REMAINING BONDING AUTHORITY.] All remaining bonding authority available for allocation under this section on December 1, is allocated to the Minnesota housing finance agency.

Sec. 39. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.091, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5. [RETURN OF ALLOCATION; DEPOSIT REFUND.] (a) If an issuer that receives an allocation under this section determines that it will not issue obligations equal to all or a portion of the allocation received under this section within 120 days of the allocation or within the time period permitted by federal tax law, whichever is less, the issuer must notify the department. If the issuer notifies the department or the 120-day period since allocation has expired prior to the last Monday in November, the amount of allocation is canceled and returned for reallocation through the unified pool. If the issuer notifies the department on or after the last Monday in November, the amount of allocation is canceled and returned for reallocation to the Minnesota housing finance agency. To encourage a competitive application process, the commissioner shall reserve, for new applications, the amount of allocation that is canceled and returned for reallocation under this section for a minimum of seven calendar days.

(b) An issuer that returns for reallocation all or a portion of an allocation received under this section within 120 days of the allocation shall receive within 30 days a refund equal to:

(1) one-half of the application deposit for the amount of bonding authority returned within 30 days of receiving the allocation;

(2) one-fourth of the application deposit for the amount of bonding authority returned between 31 and 60 days of receiving the allocation; and

(3) one-eighth of the application deposit for the amount of bonding authority returned between 61 and 120 days of receiving the allocation.

(c) No refund of the application deposit shall be available for allocations returned on or after the last Monday in November. This subdivision does not apply to the Minnesota housing finance agency, or the Minnesota rural finance authority.

Sec. 40. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.091, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6. [FINAL ALLOCATION; CARRYFORWARD.] Notwithstanding the notice requirements of section 474A.131, subdivision 2, any bonding authority remaining unissued by the Minnesota housing finance agency on the last business day in December shall be carried forward into the next calendar year by the commissioner for the Minnesota housing finance agency in accordance with section 474A.131, subdivision 2.

Sec. 41. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.131, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [NOTICE OF ISSUE.] Each issuer that issues bonds with an allocation received under this chapter shall provide a notice of issue to the department on forms provided by the department stating:

(1) the date of issuance of the bonds;

(2) the title of the issue;

(3) the principal amount of the bonds; 

(4) the type of qualified bonds under federal tax law; and

(5) the dollar amount of the bonds issued that were subject to the annual volume cap; and

(6) for entitlement issuers, whether the allocation is from current year entitlement authority or is from carry forward authority.

For obligations that are issued as a part of a series of obligations, a notice must be provided for each series. A penalty of one-half of the amount of the application deposit not to exceed $5,000 shall apply to any issue of obligations for which a notice of issue is not provided to the department within five business days after issuance or before the last Monday in December, whichever occurs first. Within 30 days after receipt of a notice of issue the department shall refund a portion of the application deposit equal to one percent of the amount of the bonding authority actually issued if a one percent application deposit was made, or equal to two percent of the amount of the bonding authority actually issued if a two percent application deposit was made, less any penalty amount.

Sec. 42. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.131, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 1b. [DEADLINE FOR ISSUANCE OF QUALIFIED BONDS.] If an issuer fails to notify the department before 4:30 p.m. on the last business day in December of issuance of obligations pursuant to an allocation received for any qualified bond project or issuance of an entitlement allocation, the allocation is canceled and the bonding authority is allocated to the Minnesota housing finance agency for carryforward by the commissioner under section 474A.091, subdivision 6.

Sec. 43. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.131, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [CARRYFORWARD NOTICE.] If an issuer intends to carry forward an allocation received under this chapter, it must notify the department in writing before 4:30 p.m. on the last Monday of business day in December. This notice requirement does not apply to the Minnesota housing finance agency for the carryforward of unallocated unified pool balances.

Sec. 44. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.14, is amended to read:

474A.14 [NOTICE OF AVAILABLE AUTHORITY.]

The department shall publish in the State Register a provide at its official Web site a written notice of the amount of bonding authority in the housing, small issue, and public facilities pools as soon after January 1 as possible. The department shall publish in the State Register a provide at its official Web site a written notice of the amount of bonding authority available for allocation in the unified pool as soon after August 1 as possible.

Sec. 45. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 475.54, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [IN INSTALLMENTS; EXCEPTION; ANNUAL LIMIT.] Except as provided in subdivision 3, 5a, 15, or 17, or as expressly authorized in another law, all obligations of each issue shall mature or be subject to mandatory sinking fund redemption in installments, the first not later than three years and the last not later than 30 years from the date of the issue; or 40 years or the useful life of the asset, whichever is less, for municipal water and wastewater treatment systems and essential community facilities financed or guaranteed by the United States Department of Agriculture. No amount of principal of the issue payable in any calendar year shall exceed five times the an amount of equal to the smallest amount payable in any preceding calendar year ending three years or more after the issue date multiplied:

(1) by five, in the case of obligations maturing not later than 25 years from the date of issue; and

(2) by six, in the case of obligations maturing 25 years or later from the date of issue.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective the day following final enactment. 

Sec. 46. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 475.58, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [APPROVAL BY ELECTORS; EXCEPTIONS.] Obligations authorized by law or charter may be issued by any municipality upon obtaining the approval of a majority of the electors voting on the question of issuing the obligations, but an election shall not be required to authorize obligations issued:

(1) to pay any unpaid judgment against the municipality;

(2) for refunding obligations;

(3) for an improvement or improvement program, which obligation is payable wholly or partly from the proceeds of special assessments levied upon property specially benefited by the improvement or by an improvement within the improvement program, or of taxes levied upon the increased value of property within a district for the development of which the improvement is undertaken, including obligations which are the general obligations of the municipality, if the municipality is entitled to reimbursement in whole or in part from the proceeds of such special assessments or taxes and not less than 20 percent of the cost of the improvement or the improvement program is to be assessed against benefited property or is to be paid from the proceeds of federal grant funds or a combination thereof, or is estimated to be received from such taxes within the district;

(4) payable wholly from the income of revenue producing conveniences;

(5) under the provisions of a home rule charter which permits the issuance of obligations of the municipality without election;

(6) under the provisions of a law which permits the issuance of obligations of a municipality without an election, subject to the reverse referendum requirement in subdivision 1b;

(7) to fund pension or retirement fund liabilities pursuant to section 475.52, subdivision 6;

(8) under a capital improvement plan under section 373.40;

(9) to fund facilities as provided in subdivision 3; and

(10) under sections 469.1813 to 469.1815 (property tax abatement authority bonds).

Sec. 47. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 475.58, subdivision 1a, is amended to read:

Subd. 1a. [RESUBMISSION LIMITATION.] If the electors do not approve the issuing of obligations at an election required by subdivision 1 or subdivision 1b, the question of authorizing the obligations for the same purpose and in the same amount may not be submitted to the electors within a period of 180 days from the date the election was held. If the question of authorizing the obligations for the same purpose and in the same amount is not approved a second time it may not be submitted to the electors within a period of one year after the second election.

Sec. 48. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 475.58, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 1b. [REVERSE REFERENDUM REQUIRED.] Any authority given to a statutory or home rule charter city, county, or town in general or special law to issue general obligation bonds under this chapter that is exempt from the election requirement under subdivision 1, clause (6), is subject to the reverse referendum requirement in this subdivision. The city, county, or town must publish a notice of its intention to issue the bonds and the date and time of a hearing to obtain public comment on the matter. The notice must be published in the official newspaper of the local government unit or in a newspaper of general circulation in the local government's jurisdiction. The notice must be published at least 14 but not more than 28 days before the date of the hearing. The local government unit may issue the bonds only upon obtaining approval of a majority of the voters voting on the question of issuing the obligations, if a petition requesting a vote on the issuance is signed by voters equal to five percent of the votes cast

in the local government's last general election and is filed with the chief clerical officer of the city, county, or town within 30 days after the public hearing. The commissioner of revenue shall prepare a suggested form of the question to be presented at election.

Sec. 49. Laws 1974, chapter 473, is amended to read:

Section 1. [SCOTT COUNTY; HOUSING AND REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY.]

(a) There is hereby created in Scott county a public body corporate and politic, to be known as the Scott county housing and redevelopment authority, having all the powers and duties of a housing and redevelopment authority under the provisions of the municipal housing and redevelopment act, Minnesota Statutes, sections 462.411 to 462.711, and acts amendatory thereof; which act applies to the county of Scott 469.001 to 469.047, and having those powers of an economic development authority under the provisions of Minnesota Statutes, sections 469.090 to 469.180, as are granted to it by Scott county as provided below. For the purposes of applying the provisions of the municipal housing and redevelopment act Minnesota Statutes, sections 469.001 to 469.047 and 469.090 to 469.180, to Scott county, the county has all the powers and duties of a municipality, the county board has all of the powers and duties of a governing body, the chairman of the county board has all of the powers and duties of a mayor, and the area of operation includes the area within the territorial boundaries of the county.

Sec. 2. [APPLICATION.]

Subdivision 1. This act shall not limit or restrict any existing housing and redevelopment authority or prevent a municipality from creating an authority. The county shall not exercise jurisdiction in any municipality where a municipal housing and redevelopment authority is established.

Subd. 2. A municipal housing and redevelopment authority may request the Scott county housing and redevelopment authority to handle the housing duties of the authority and, in such an event, the Scott county housing and redevelopment authority shall act and have exclusive jurisdiction for housing in the municipality pursuant to the provisions of the municipal housing and redevelopment act, Minnesota Statutes, sections 462.411 to 462.711, and acts amendatory thereof 469.001 to 469.047. A transfer of duties relating to housing shall not transfer any duties relating to redevelopment.

Sec. 3. [MUNICIPAL APPROVAL.]

If any housing or redevelopment project is undertaken in Scott county pursuant to this authorization, and such project is within the boundaries of any incorporated village, city, or township, the location of such project shall be approved by the governing body of such village, city, or township.

Sec. 4. [ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY POWERS.]

The Scott county housing and redevelopment authority may exercise any of the powers of an economic development authority (EDA) granted to it by resolution by the Scott county board of commissioners, except for the authority to levy the tax described in Minnesota Statutes, section 469.107. With the prior approval of the Scott county board, the authority may increase its levy of the special tax described in Minnesota Statutes, section 469.033, subdivision 6, to an amount not exceeding 0.01813 percent of taxable market value, or any higher limit from time to time authorized under Minnesota Statutes, section 469.033, subdivision 6, or 469.107.

Sec. 4. Sec. 5. [EFFECTIVE DATE; LOCAL APPROVAL.]

This act takes effect when approved by a majority of the board of county commissioners of Scott county and upon compliance with Minnesota Statutes, Section 645.021 This act is effective the day after the governing body of Scott county and its chief clerical officer timely complete their compliance with Minnesota Statutes, section 645.021, subdivisions 2 and 3. 

Sec. 50. Laws 1980, chapter 482, is amended to read:

Section 1. [CARVER COUNTY; HOUSING AND REDEVELOPMENT.]

Subdivision 1. There is created in the county of Carver a public body corporate and politic, to be known as the Carver county housing and redevelopment authority, having all of the powers and duties of a housing and redevelopment authority under the provisions of the municipal housing and redevelopment act, Minnesota Statutes, Section 462.411 to 462.711 sections 469.001 to 469.047, and having those powers of an economic development authority under the provisions of Minnesota Statutes, sections 469.090 to 469.180, as are granted to it by Carver county as provided below. For the purposes of applying the provisions of the municipal housing and redevelopment act Minnesota Statutes, sections 469.001 to 469.047 and 469.090 to 469.180, to Carver county, the county has all of the powers and duties of a municipality, the county board has all of the powers and duties of a governing body, the chairman of the county board has all of the powers and duties of a mayor, and the area of operation includes the area within the territorial boundaries of the county.

Subd. 2. This section shall not limit or restrict any existing housing and redevelopment authority or prevent a municipality from creating an authority. The county shall not exercise jurisdiction in any municipality where a municipal housing and redevelopment authority is established. If a municipal housing and redevelopment authority requests the Carver county housing and redevelopment authority to handle the housing duties of the municipal authority, the Carver county housing and redevelopment authority shall act and have exclusive jurisdiction for housing in the municipality. A transfer of duties relating to housing shall not transfer any duties relating to redevelopment.

Sec. 2. [EDA POWERS.]

The Carver county housing and redevelopment authority may exercise any of the powers of an economic development authority granted to it by resolution by the Carver county board of commissioners, except for the authority to levy the tax described in Minnesota Statutes, section 469.107. With the prior approval of the Carver county board, the authority may increase its levy of the special tax described in Minnesota Statutes, section 469.033, subdivision 6, to an amount not exceeding 0.01813 percent of taxable market value, or any higher limit from time to time authorized under Minnesota Statutes, section 469.033, subdivision 6, or 469.107.

Sec. 3. [LOCAL APPROVAL.]

Before a housing or redevelopment project of the Carver county housing and redevelopment authority is undertaken, the project shall be approved by the local governing body with jurisdiction over all or any part of the area in which the proposed project is located.

Sec. 3. Sec. 4. [EFFECTIVE DATE DATES; LOCAL APPROVAL.]

This act is effective upon the day of compliance with Minnesota Statutes, Section 645.021, Subdivision 3. This act is effective the day after the governing body of Carver county and its chief clerical officer timely complete their compliance with Minnesota Statutes, section 645.021, subdivisions 2 and 3.

Sec. 51. [CHISAGO LAKES JOINT SEWAGE TREATMENT COMMISSION BONDING AUTHORITY.]

Subdivision 1. [AUTHORITY.] Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section 471.59, subdivision 11, the Chisago lakes joint sewage treatment commission, a joint powers board established by the county of Chisago, and the cities of Lindstrom, Chisago City, and Center City, to own and operate wastewater treatment facilities for the member local governments, may issue and sell general obligation bonds pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, sections 115.46 and 444.075, and chapter 475, to acquire land for, construct, expand, furnish, equip, and modify its wastewater treatment facilities, and pledge the full faith and credit and taxing power of the governmental units that are members of the joint powers board. Bonds issued under this section are not subject to Minnesota Statutes, section 475.58. The joint powers board is a municipality within the meaning of Minnesota Statutes, chapter 475. Each government unit that is a member of the joint powers board must adopt a resolution authorizing the joint powers board to issue and sell the bonds. 

Subd. 2. [EFFECTIVE DATE; NO LOCAL APPROVAL.] This section is effective the day following final enactment and does not require local approval, as provided in Minnesota Statutes, section 645.023, subdivision 1, paragraph (a).

Sec. 52. [HASSAN TOWNSHIP; ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY; ESTABLISHMENT AND POWERS.]

Subdivision 1. [ESTABLISHMENT.] The board of township supervisors of Hassan township may establish an economic development authority in the manner provided in Minnesota Statutes, sections 469.090 to 469.1081, and may impose limits on the authority enumerated in Minnesota Statutes, section 469.092. The economic development authority has all of the powers and duties granted to or imposed upon economic development authorities under Minnesota Statutes, sections 469.090 to 469.1081. The township economic development authority may create and define the boundaries of economic development districts at any place or places within the township, provided that a project as recommended by the township authority that is to be located within the corporate limits of a city may not be commenced without the approval of the governing body of the city. Minnesota Statutes, section 469.174, subdivision 10, and the contiguity requirement specified under Minnesota Statutes, section 469.101, subdivision 1, do not apply to limit the areas that may be designated as township economic development districts.

Subd. 2. [POWERS.] If an economic development authority is established as provided in subdivision 1, the township may exercise all of the powers relating to an economic development authority granted to a city under Minnesota Statutes, sections 469.090 to 469.1081, or other law, including the power to levy a tax to support the activities of the authority.

Subd. 3. [LOCAL APPROVAL.] This section is effective the day after the town board of supervisors of Hassan township and its chief clerical officer timely complete their compliance with Minnesota Statutes, section 645.021, subdivisions 2 and 3.

Sec. 53. [REPEALER.]

Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.061, subdivision 6, is repealed.

Sec. 54. [EFFECTIVE DATE.]

Sections 16 to 44 are effective the day after final enactment except that section 22, paragraph (c), is effective to require submissions by December 31, 2002, and annually thereafter."

Delete the title and insert:

"A bill for an act relating to public finance; updating and making technical changes to public finance and related provisions related to county and county-supported hospitals, municipally-owned nursing homes, lake improvement districts, and the metropolitan council; extending a sunset date for certain county capital improvement bonds and limiting the inclusiveness of capital improvements; removing election requirements as preconditions for issuance of certain obligations; requiring reverse referenda in certain cases; clarifying the effect of a state guaranty as not creating constitutional public debt of the state; authorizing some flexibility in stating certain ballot questions; authorizing Scott and Carver counties to grant certain economic development powers to their housing and redevelopment authorities; authorizing the Chisago Lakes joint sewage treatment commission to issue bonds; authorizing expanded funding by the county for certain multijurisdictional program activities in Hennepin county; authorizing Hassan township to create and empower an economic development authority; updating and changing the Minnesota Bond Allocation Act; amending Minnesota Statutes 2000, sections 103B.555, by adding a subdivision; 165.10, subdivision 2; 275.60; 373.40, subdivisions 1, 7; 373.45, subdivision 3; 376.06, subdivision 1; 376.07; 376.08, subdivisions 1, 2, 3, by adding a subdivision; 376.09; 383B.79, by adding a subdivision; 473.39, by adding a subdivision; 474A.02, subdivisions 8, 13a, 22a, 22b, 23a; 474A.03, subdivisions 1, 2a, 4; 474A.04, subdivisions 1a, 5; 474A.045; 474A.047, subdivisions 1, 2; 474A.061, subdivisions 1, 2a, 2b, 2c, 4; 474A.091, subdivisions 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, by adding a subdivision; 474A.131, subdivisions 1, 2, by adding a subdivision; 474A.14; 475.54, subdivision 1;

475.58, subdivisions 1, 1a, by adding a subdivision; Laws 1974, chapter 473; Laws 1980, chapter 482; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 474A; repealing Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 474A.061, subdivision 6."

With the recommendation that when so amended the bill pass and be re-referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.

The report was adopted.

Krinkie from the Committee on State Government Finance to which was referred:

S. F. No. 722, A bill for an act relating to energy; providing for comprehensive energy conservation, production, and regulatory changes; amending Minnesota Statutes 2000, sections 16B.32, subdivision 2; 116C.52, subdivisions 4, 10; 116C.53, subdivisions 2, 3; 116C.57, subdivisions 1, 2, 4, by adding subdivisions; 116C.58; 116C.59, subdivisions 1, 4; 116C.60; 116C.61, subdivisions 1, 3; 116C.62; 116C.63, subdivision 2; 116C.645; 116C.65; 116C.66; 116C.69; 216B.095; 216B.097, subdivision 1; 216B.16, subdivision 15; 216B.241, subdivisions 1, 1a, 1b, 1c, 2; 216B.2421, subdivision 2; 216B.243, subdivisions 3, 4, 8; 216B.62, subdivision 5; 216C.41; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapters 16B; 116C; 216B; 452; repealing Minnesota Statutes 2000, sections 116C.55, subdivisions 2, 3; 116C.57, subdivisions 3, 5, 5a; 116C.67; 216B.2421, subdivision 3.

Reported the same back with the following amendments:

Delete everything after the enacting clause and insert:

"ARTICLE 1

ENERGY PLANNING

Section 1. [TITLE.]

This act shall be known as the Minnesota Energy Security and Reliability Act.

Sec. 2. [216B.012] [STATE TRANSMISSION PLAN.]

Subdivision 1. [PLAN.] The commission shall maintain a state transmission plan, consisting of a list of certified high voltage transmission line projects.

Subd. 2. [PLAN DEVELOPMENT.] (a) By November 1 of each odd-numbered year, each public utility, municipal utility, and cooperative electric association, or the generation and transmission organization that serves each utility or association, that owns or operates electric transmission lines in Minnesota shall jointly or individually submit a transmission projects report to the commission. The report must:

(1) list specific present and reasonably foreseeable future inadequacies in the transmission system in Minnesota;

(2) identify alternative means of addressing each inadequacy listed;

(3) identify general economic, environmental, and social issues associated with each alternative; and

(4) provide a summary of public input the utilities and associations have gathered related to the list of inadequacies and the role of local government officials and other interested persons in assisting to develop the list and analyze alternatives. 

(b) To meet the requirements of this subdivision, entities may rely on available information and analysis developed by a regional transmission organization or any subgroup of a regional transmission organization and may develop and include additional information as necessary. A regional energy infrastructure planning report issued under section 216B.019 and submitted under this subdivision satisfies the requirements of this subdivision for the member utilities.

Subd. 3. [COMMISSION APPROVAL.] By June 1 of each even-numbered year, the commission shall adopt a state transmission plan and shall certify, certify as modified, or deny certification of the projects proposed under subdivision 2. The commission may only certify a project that is a high voltage transmission line as defined in section 216B.2421, subdivision 2, that the commission finds is:

(1) necessary to maintain or enhance the reliability of electric service to Minnesota consumers;

(2) needed, applying the criteria in section 216B.241, subdivision 3;

(3) a public purpose project, applying the considerations in section 216B.241, subdivision 2a; and

(4) in the public interest, taking into account electric energy system needs and economic, environmental, and social interests affected by the project.

Projects certified as part of the state transmission plan need no further review by the commission under section 216B.243. The reliability administrator shall provide technical assistance to the commissioner and the commission in reviewing the proposed projects.

Subd. 4. [CONTINUING OBLIGATION.] Each public utility, municipal utility, and cooperative electric association that operates and provides electric service in this state has an existing and continuing obligation to provide reliable, affordable, safe, and efficient services to their customers in the state; to plan to meet the resource and infrastructure needs of those customers; and to ensure that those resources and infrastructure are sited and constructed, or otherwise acquired.

Sec. 3. [216B.013] [EXISTING GENERATION FACILITIES.]

In order to continue the low-maintenance and low-cost service that the existing base-load generation facilities in Minnesota have provided to Minnesota consumers, and to provide power to meet the growing demand for electricity by Minnesota consumers and businesses, it is the policy of the state that these facilities be maintained and upgraded consistent with energy policy goals established pursuant to this chapter. The public utilities commission, department, and other state agencies with regulatory jurisdiction over the operation of these facilities shall take all steps necessary to incorporate this state policy into the regulatory decisions made by each respective agency.

Sec. 4. [216B.014] [ENERGY SECURITY AND RELIABILITY.]

(a) It is a fundamental goal of Minnesota's energy and utility policy that state policymakers maximize the state's energy security.

(b) "Energy security" means, among other things, ensuring that the state's energy sources are:

(1) diverse, including (i) traditional sources such as coal, natural gas, waste-to-energy, and nuclear facilities, (ii) renewable sources such as wind, biomass, and agricultural waste generation, and (iii) high-efficiency, low-emissions distributed generation sources such as fuel cells and microturbines;

(2) to the extent feasible, produced in the state utilizing Minnesota's resources;

(3) environmentally sustainable; 

(4) available to consumers at affordable and stable rates or prices; and

(5) above all, reliable. "Reliable" means, among other things, that adequate resources and infrastructure are in place, and are planned for, to provide efficient, dependable, and secure energy services to Minnesota consumers.

Sec. 5. [216B.015] [ENERGY SECURITY BLUEPRINT.]

(a) The commissioner shall develop a draft energy security blueprint by December 15, 2001, and every four years thereafter. The blueprint must:

(1) identify important trends and issues in energy supply, consumption, conservation, and costs;

(2) set energy goals; and

(3) develop strategies to meet the goals.

(b) For the purposes of sections 216B.012 to 216B.019, the terms:

(1) "electric utility" means an entity that is a public utility; a cooperative electric association providing generation, transmission, or distribution services; a municipal utility; or a municipal power agency; and

(2) "energy utility" means an electric utility, or an entity providing natural gas to retail consumers.

Sec. 6. [216B.016] [ENERGY BLUEPRINT CONTENTS.]

The energy blueprint must include:

(1) the amount and type of projected statewide energy consumption over the next ten years;

(2) a determination of whether and the extent to which existing and anticipated energy production and transportation facilities will or will not be able to supply needed energy;

(3) a determination of the potential for conservation to meet some or all of the projected need for energy;

(4) an assessment of the environmental impact of projected energy consumption over the next ten years, prepared by the commissioner of the pollution control agency in consultation with other state agencies and other interested persons, with strategies to mitigate those impacts; and

(5) benchmarks to measure and monitor supply adequacy and infrastructure capacity, and to assess the overall reliability of the state's electric system.

Sec. 7. [216B.017] [ENERGY GOALS.]

(a) The blueprint must recommend statewide goals and recommend strategies to accomplish the following goals for:

(1) energy conservation and recovery;

(2) limiting adverse environmental emissions from the generation of electric energy consumed in the state;

(3) production of electric energy consumed in the state from renewable energy sources;

(4) deployment of distributed electric generation technologies; 

(5) ensuring that energy service is affordable and available to all consumers in the state;

(6) minimizing the imposition of social costs on energy consumers through energy rates or prices; and

(7) increasing the efficiency of the regulatory infrastructure and reducing regulatory and administrative costs.

(b) The goals adopted in the blueprint may be onetime goals or a series of goals to meet overall objectives. The commissioner shall present these goals, and any associated strategies that require changes to state law, to the legislature for modification and approval.

Sec. 8. [216B.018] [BLUEPRINT DEVELOPMENT.]

Subdivision 1. [PUBLIC PARTICIPATION.] The commissioner shall:

(1) invite public and stakeholder comment and participation during blueprint development; and

(2) hold at least one public meeting on the proposed blueprint in each energy infrastructure planning region of the state after at least 30 days' public notice in the region.

Subd. 2. [NOTICE AND COMMENT; BLUEPRINT ISSUANCE.] The commissioner shall provide notice of all public meetings to discuss the proposed blueprint and allow opportunity for written comment prior to issuing the final blueprint. After review by the administrator, the commissioner shall publish the final energy blueprint in the State Register within four months of issuing the draft blueprint.

Sec. 9. [216B.019] [REGIONAL ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE PLANNING.]

Subdivision 1. [ESTABLISHING PLANNING REGIONS.] The commission, after notice and opportunity for written comment, shall establish geographic regional energy infrastructure planning regions in the state by August 1, 2001. Planning regions may coincide with existing subregional planning areas used by the regional electric reliability or regional transmission organization serving Minnesota. The commission shall also request comments on and approve, or approve as modified, each group's organizational, administrative, planning, and voting structures.

Subd. 2. [PLANNING GROUP.] Each energy utility that operates in an identified region shall participate in the regional energy infrastructure planning group. Each regional group must include as voting members an equal number of representatives of energy utilities, and representatives from counties in the identified region, appointed by the county board.

Subd. 3. [PUBLIC MEETINGS.] Each regional energy infrastructure planning group shall hold public meetings within the region on a regular basis, not less than twice a year, and provide public notice at least 14 calendar days in advance of a meeting.

Subd. 4. [REPORT.] By November 1, 2001, and every two years thereafter, each regional energy infrastructure planning group shall submit a report to the commissioner that:

(1) identifies inadequacies in electric generation and transmission within the region including any deficiencies as defined in subdivision 5;

(2) lists alternative ways to address identified inadequacies, taking into account the provisions of the state energy security blueprint;

(3) identifies potential general and, to the extent known, specific economic, environmental, and social issues associated with each alternative; and 

(4) recommends alternatives to address identified inadequacies and deficiencies that ensure the reliability and security of the energy system in the region, while minimizing environmental and social impacts. In making recommendations, the planning group shall identify critical needs. For the purposes of this clause, "critical needs" are those projects that are necessary to maintain reliable electric service to Minnesota consumers that meet or exceed the most stringent applicable state or regional reliability standards. A regional planning group may satisfy the requirement to issue an initial report under this section by submitting the portion of the Mid-Continent Area Power Pool transmission plan that affects the region, with any analysis, comment, or narrative that the group deems important.

Subd. 5. [DEFICIENCY.] (a) "Deficiency" means a condition, or set of conditions, that, based on the utility's most recent forecast or consistent with the transmission expansion plan of a federally approved regional transmission organization or regional reliability entity, may materially limit the adequacy of electric supply, efficiency of electric service, or reliability of electric service to an electric utility's customers in the state that may require construction of a generation or transmission project.

(b) Within 90 days of identifying a deficiency in its system, an electric utility shall give notice of the deficiency to at least:

(1) the members of affected regional energy infrastructure planning groups;

(2) officials of potentially affected local governments; and

(3) the commissioner and the independent reliability administrator.

(c) Notice of deficiency must be made before submitting (1) an application for a certificate of need under section 216B.243 or (2) a request for environmental review of an energy project to any governmental entity.

Sec. 10. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 216C.051, subdivision 9, is amended to read:

Subd. 9. [EXPIRATION.] This section is repealed March 15, 2001 June 30, 2003.

Sec. 11. [216C.052] [RELIABILITY ADMINISTRATOR.]

Subdivision 1. [POSITION ESTABLISHED IN DEPARTMENT.] Recognizing the critical importance of adequate, reliable, and environmentally sound energy services to the state's economy and the well being of its citizens, and that independent and expert technical analysis is necessary to ensure the reliability of the energy system, the position of reliability administrator is established within the department of commerce.

Subd. 2. [RESPONSIBILITIES.] (a) The administrator shall provide technical advice and assistance to the department, the commission, and regional energy infrastructure planning groups. In addition, the administrator shall provide technical and administrative assistance to the legislative electric energy task force. In conducting its work, the administrator shall:

(1) model and monitor the use and operation of the energy infrastructure in the state, including generation facilities, transmission lines, natural gas pipelines, and other energy infrastructure;

(2) develop and present to the commission and parties technical analyses of proposed infrastructure projects, and provide technical advice to the commission;

(3) assist the regional energy infrastructure planning groups in analyzing assertions of need for additional infrastructure;

(4) develop and present the reliability status report required under subdivision 4 and the state reliability plan under section 216B.012; and 

(5) present independent, factual, expert, and technical information on infrastructure proposals at public meetings hosted by the task force, the environmental quality board, or the commission.

(b) Upon request and subject to resource constraints, the administrator shall provide technical assistance regarding matters unrelated to applications for infrastructure improvements to the task force, the department, or the commission.

Subd. 3. [ADMINISTRATIVE ISSUES.] (a) The commissioner may select the administrator whose term shall be concurrent with that of the governor. The administrator may be removed only for cause. The commissioner shall oversee and direct the work of the administrator, annually review the expenses of the administrator, and biennially approve the budget of the administrator. The administrator may utilize existing commission or department staff at the discretion of the chair or the commissioner, may hire staff, and may contract for technical expertise in performing duties when existing state resources are required for other state responsibilities or when special expertise is required. The salary of the administrator is governed by section 15A.0815, subdivision 2.

(b) The administrator shall certify its administrative costs to the commission on a monthly basis, and shall specify those costs that are general in nature and those that were incurred on a specific application or with regard to a specific utility.

(c) The legislative energy task force shall make assessments for the general administrative costs of the administrator pursuant to the assessment authority of the legislative electric energy task force under section 216C.051, subdivision 6. If sufficient funds are not available under that section, the administrator must not incur additional costs and the position of administrator must be vacated. In no event shall the general fund of the state treasury be responsible for any costs of the administrator. Additional amounts for general administrative costs may be incurred and recovered above this amount if the commissioner and chair of the commission deem the additional amounts to be necessary. Costs that are of a general nature must be apportioned among all energy utilities in proportion to their respective gross operating revenues from retail sales of gas or electric service within the state during the last calendar year.

(d) Costs relating to a specific proceeding, analysis, or project are not general administrative costs and must be billed directly. The commission shall review those costs, and shall order payment within 30 days of commission review. The department shall render a bill to the utility or utilities, either at the conclusion of a particular proceeding, analysis, or project, or from time to time during the course of the proceeding, analysis, or project. The bill constitutes notice of the assessment and a demand for payment. The amount of the bills so rendered by the department must be paid by the public utility into a special revenue fund in the state treasury within 30 days from the date of billing and are appropriated to the administrator for the purposes provided in this section. Appeals may be handled by the commission as provided in section 216B.62. The commission shall approve or approve as modified a rate schedule providing for the automatic adjustment of charges to recover amounts paid by utilities under this section. The administrator shall provide a detailed accounting of finances to the commissioner and to the chairs of the house of representatives and senate finance committees with jurisdiction over the department's budget. All amounts assessed under this section are in addition to amounts appropriated to the commission and the department by other law.

Subd. 4. [RELIABILITY STATUS REPORT.] The commission shall require all electric utilities to report to the administrator on operating and planning reserves, available transmission capacity, outages of major generation units and feeders of distribution and transmissions facilities, the adequacy of stock and equipment, and any other information necessary to assess the current and future reliability of energy service in this state. By January 1 of each odd-numbered year beginning in 2003, the administrator shall assess and report the status of the reliability of electric service in the state to the commissioner, with copies to the commission and the legislative electric energy task force.

Sec. 12. [EFFECTIVE DATE.]

Article 1 is effective the day following final enactment. 

ARTICLE 2

ESSENTIAL ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE

Section 1. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116.07, subdivision 4a, is amended to read:

Subd. 4a. [PERMITS.] (a) The pollution control agency may issue, continue in effect, or deny permits, under such conditions as it may prescribe for the prevention of pollution, for (1) the emission of air contaminants except for emissions from electric generation stations, or for (2) the installation or operation of any emission facility, air contaminant treatment facility, treatment facility, potential air contaminant storage facility, or storage facility, or any part thereof, or for (3) the sources or emissions of noise pollution.

The pollution control agency may also issue, continue in effect or deny permits, under such conditions as it may prescribe for the prevention of pollution, for, (4) the storage, collection, transportation, processing, or disposal of waste, or for (5) the installation or operation of any system or facility, or any part thereof, related to the storage, collection, transportation, processing, or disposal of waste. The commissioner, rather than the agency, may issue, continue in effect, or deny permits, under conditions the commissioner may prescribe for the prevention of pollution, for the emissions of air contaminants from electric generation stations.

The pollution control agency may revoke or modify any permit issued under this subdivision and section 116.081 whenever it is necessary, in the opinion of the agency, to prevent or abate pollution.

(b) The pollution control agency has the authority for approval over the siting, expansion, or operation of a solid waste facility with regard to environmental issues. However, the agency's issuance of a permit does not release the permittee from any liability, penalty, or duty imposed by any applicable county ordinances. Nothing in this chapter precludes, or shall be construed to preclude, a county from enforcing land use controls, regulations, and ordinances existing at the time of the permit application and adopted pursuant to sections 366.10 to 366.181, 394.21 to 394.37, or 462.351 to 462.365, with regard to the siting, expansion, or operation of a solid waste facility.

Sec. 2. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.52, subdivision 10, is amended to read:

Subd. 10. [UTILITY.] "Utility" shall mean any entity engaged or intending to engage in this state in the generation, transmission or distribution of electric energy including, but not limited to, a private investor owned utility, cooperatively owned utility, and a public or municipally owned utility.

Sec. 3. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.53, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [JURISDICTION.] The board is hereby given the authority to provide for site and route selection for large electric power facilities. The board shall issue permits for large electric power facilities in a timely fashion. When the public utilities commission has determined the need for the project under section 216B.012 or 216B.243, questions of need, including size, type, and timing; alternative system configurations; and voltage, are not within the board's siting and routing authority and must not be included in the scope of environmental review conducted under sections 116C.51 to 116C.69.

Sec. 4. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.53, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3. [INTERSTATE ROUTES.] (a) If a route is proposed in two or more states, the board shall attempt to reach agreement with affected states on the entry and exit points prior to authorizing the construction of the designating a route. The board, in discharge of its duties pursuant to sections 116C.51 to 116C.69 may make joint investigations, hold joint hearings within or without the state, and issue joint or concurrent orders in conjunction or concurrence with any official or agency of any state or of the United States. The board may negotiate and enter into any agreements or compacts with agencies of other states, pursuant to any consent of Congress, for cooperative efforts in certifying the construction, operation, and maintenance of large electric power facilities in accord with the purposes of sections 116C.51 to 116C.69 and for the enforcement of the respective state laws regarding such facilities. 

(b) The board may not issue a route permit for the Minnesota portion of an interstate high voltage transmission line unless the applicant has received a certificate of need from the public utilities commission.

Sec. 5. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.57, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [DESIGNATION OF SITES SUITABLE FOR SPECIFIC FACILITIES; REPORTS SITE PERMIT.] A utility must apply to the board in a form and manner prescribed by the board for designation of a specific site for a specific size and type of facility. The application shall contain at least two proposed sites. In the event a utility proposes a site not included in the board's inventory of study areas, the utility shall specify the reasons for the proposal and shall make an evaluation of the proposed site based upon the planning policies, criteria and standards specified in the inventory. Pursuant to sections 116C.57 to 116C.60, the board shall study and evaluate any site proposed by a utility and any other site the board deems necessary which was proposed in a manner consistent with rules adopted by the board concerning the form, content, and timeliness of proposals for alternate sites. No site designation shall be made in violation of the site selection standards established in section 116C.55. The board shall indicate the reasons for any refusal and indicate changes in size or type of facility necessary to allow site designation. Within a year after the board's acceptance of a utility's application, the board shall decide in accordance with the criteria specified in section 116C.55, subdivision 2, the responsibilities, procedures and considerations specified in section 116C.57, subdivision 4, and the considerations in chapter 116D which proposed site is to be designated. The board may extend for just cause the time limitation for its decision for a period not to exceed six months. When the board designates a site, it shall issue a certificate of site compatibility to the utility with any appropriate conditions. The board shall publish a notice of its decision in the State Register within 30 days of site designation. No person may construct a large electric power generating plant shall be constructed except on without a site designated by permit from the board or a county. A large electric generating plant may be constructed only on either (1) a site approved by the board under this section or section 116C.575, or (2) a site designated by a county using terms, conditions, procedures, and standards no less stringent than those imposed and used by the board. If the proposed project is under the jurisdiction of the board, the board must incorporate into one proceeding the route selection for a high voltage transmission line that is directly associated with and necessary to interconnect the large electric generation plant to the transmission system and whose need is certified as part of the generation plant project by the public utilities commission.

Sec. 6. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.57, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [DESIGNATION OF ROUTES; PROCEDURE ROUTE PERMIT.] A utility shall apply to the board in a form and manner prescribed by the board for a permit for the construction of a high voltage transmission line. The application shall contain at least two proposed routes. Pursuant to sections 116C.57 to 116C.60, the board shall study, and evaluate the type, design, routing, right-of-way preparation and facility construction of any route proposed in a utility's application and any other route the board deems necessary which was proposed in a manner consistent with rules adopted by the board concerning the form, content, and timeliness of proposals for alternate routes provided, however, that the board shall identify the alternative routes prior to the commencement of public hearings thereon pursuant to section 116C.58. Within one year after the board's acceptance of a utility's application, the board shall decide in accordance with the criteria and standards specified in section 116C.55, subdivision 2, and the considerations specified in section 116C.57, subdivision 4, which proposed route is to be designated. The board may extend for just cause the time limitation for its decision for a period not to exceed 90 days. When the board designates a route, it shall issue a permit for the construction of a high voltage transmission line specifying the type, design, routing, right-of-way preparation and facility construction it deems necessary and with any other appropriate conditions. The board may order the construction of high voltage transmission line facilities which are capable of expansion in transmission capacity through multiple circuiting or design modifications. The board shall publish a notice of its decision in the state register within 30 days of issuance of the permit. No person may construct a high voltage transmission line shall be constructed except on without a route designated by permit from the board, unless it was exempted pursuant to subdivision 5. A high voltage transmission line may be constructed only along a route approved by the board. 

Sec. 7. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.57, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 2a. [APPLICATION.] (a) A person seeking to construct a large electric power generating plant or a high voltage transmission line shall apply to the board for a site permit or route permit. The application must contain any information required by the board and must specify:

(1) whether the applicant is required to receive a certificate of need for the proposed project;

(2) whether the applicant is required to comply with section 216B.019, subdivision 5, and has complied; and

(3) whether the proposed project was identified, discussed, and considered by the relevant regional energy infrastructure planning group and the result of that consideration.

(b) The applicant shall propose at least two sites for a large electric power generating plant and two routes for a high voltage transmission line.

(c) The chair of the board shall determine whether an application is complete and advise the applicant of any deficiencies. An application is not incomplete if information not in the application can be obtained from the applicant during the first phase of the process and that information is not essential for notice and initial public meetings.

Sec. 8. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.57, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 2b. [NOTICE OF APPLICATION.] Within 15 days after submitting an application to the board, the applicant shall publish notice of the application in a legal newspaper of general circulation in each county in which the site or route is proposed and send a copy of the application by certified mail to any regional development commission, county, incorporated municipality, and town in which the site or route is proposed. Within the same 15 days, the applicant shall also send a notice of the submission of the application and description of the proposed project to each owner whose property is adjacent to any of the proposed sites for the power plant or along any of the proposed routes for the transmission line. The notice must identify a location where a copy of the application can be reviewed. For the purpose of giving mailed notice under this subdivision, owners are those shown on the records of the county auditor or, in any county where tax statements are mailed by the county treasurer, on the records of the county treasurer, but other appropriate records may be used for this purpose. The failure to give mailed notice to a property owner, or defects in the notice, does not invalidate the proceedings, provided a bona fide attempt to comply with this subdivision has been made. Within the same 15 days, the applicant shall also send the same notice of the submission of the application and description of the proposed project to those persons who have requested to be placed on a list maintained by the board for receiving notice of proposed large electric generating power plants and high voltage transmission lines.

Sec. 9. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.57, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 2c. [ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW.] The board shall prepare an environmental impact statement on each proposed large electric generating plant or high voltage transmission line for which a complete application has been submitted. For any project that has obtained a certificate of need from the public utilities commission, the board shall not consider whether or not the project is needed. No other state environmental review documents are required. The board shall study and evaluate any site or route proposed by an applicant and any other site or route the board deems necessary that was proposed in a manner consistent with rules adopted by the board concerning the form, content, and timeliness of proposals for alternate sites or routes.

Sec. 10. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.57, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 2d. [PUBLIC HEARING.] The board shall hold a public hearing on an application for a site permit for a large electric power generating plant or a route permit for a high voltage transmission line. A hearing held for designating a site or route must be conducted by an administrative law judge from the office of administrative

hearings under the contested case procedures of chapter 14. Notice of the hearing must be given by the board at least ten days in advance but no earlier than 45 days prior to the commencement of the hearing. Notice must be by publication in a legal newspaper of general circulation in the county in which the public hearing is to be held and by certified mail to chief executives of the regional development commissions, counties, organized towns, townships, and the incorporated municipalities in which a site or route is proposed. A person may appear at the hearing and offer testimony and exhibits without the necessity of intervening as a formal party to the proceeding. The administrative law judge may allow a person to ask questions of other witnesses. The administrative law judge shall hold a portion of the hearing in the area where the power plant or transmission line is proposed to be located.

Sec. 11. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.57, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4. [CONSIDERATIONS IN DESIGNATING SITES AND ROUTES.] (a) To facilitate the study, research, evaluation, and designation of sites and routes, the board shall be guided by, but not limited to, the following responsibilities, procedures, and considerations:

(1) evaluation of research and investigations relating to the effects on land, water, and air resources of large electric power generating plants and high voltage transmission line routes and the effects of water and air discharges and electric fields resulting from such facilities on public health and welfare, vegetation, animals, materials, and aesthetic values, including base line studies, predictive modeling, and monitoring of the water and air mass at proposed and operating sites and routes, evaluation of new or improved methods for minimizing adverse impacts of water and air discharges and other matters pertaining to the effects of power plants on the water and air environment;

(2) environmental evaluation of sites and routes proposed for future development and expansion and their relationship to the land, water, air, and human resources of the state;

(3) evaluation of the effects of new electric power generation and transmission technologies and systems related to power plants designed to minimize adverse environmental effects;

(4) evaluation of the potential for beneficial uses of waste energy from proposed large electric power generating plants;

(5) analysis of the direct and indirect economic impact of proposed sites and routes including, but not limited to, productive agricultural land lost or impaired;

(6) evaluation of adverse direct and indirect environmental effects which that cannot be avoided should the proposed site and route be accepted;

(7) evaluation of alternatives to the applicant's proposed site or route proposed pursuant to subdivisions 1 and 2;

(8) evaluation of potential routes which that would use or parallel existing railroad and highway rights-of-way;

(9) evaluation of governmental survey lines and other natural division lines of agricultural land so as to minimize interference with agricultural operations;

(10) evaluation of the future needs for additional high voltage transmission lines in the same general area as any proposed route, and the advisability of ordering the construction of structures capable of expansion in transmission capacity through multiple circuiting or design modifications;

(11) evaluation of irreversible and irretrievable commitments of resources should the proposed site or route be approved; and

(12) where when appropriate, consideration of problems raised by other state and federal agencies and local entities. 

(13) (b) If the board's rules are substantially similar to existing rules and regulations of a federal agency to which the utility in the state is subject, the federal rules and regulations shall must be applied by the board.

(14) (c) No site or route shall may be designated which violates if to do so would violate state agency rules.

Sec. 12. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.57, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 7. [TIMING.] The board shall make a final decision on an application within 60 days after receipt of the report of the administrative law judge. A final decision on the request for a site permit or route permit shall be made within one year after the chair's determination that an application is complete. The time for the final decision may be extended for up to 90 days for good cause and if all parties agree.

Sec. 13. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.57, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 8. [FINAL DECISION.] (a) A site permit may not be issued in violation of the site selection standards and criteria established in this section and in rules adopted by the board. The board shall indicate the reasons for any refusal and indicate changes in size or type of facility necessary to allow site designation. When the board designates a site, it shall issue a site permit to the applicant with any appropriate conditions. The board shall publish a notice of its decision in the State Register within 30 days of issuing the site permit.

(b) A route permit may not be issued in violation of the route selection standards and criteria established in this section and in rules adopted by the board. When the route is designated, the permit issued for the construction of the facility must specify the type, design, routing, right-of-way preparation, and facility construction deemed necessary and any other appropriate conditions. The board may order the construction of high voltage transmission line facilities that are capable of expansion in transmission capacity through multiple circuiting or design modifications. The board shall publish a notice of its decision in the State Register within 30 days of issuing the permit.

Sec. 14. [116C.575] [ALTERNATIVE REVIEW OF APPLICATIONS.]

Subdivision 1. [ALTERNATIVE REVIEW.] An applicant who seeks a site permit or route permit for one of the projects identified in this section may petition the board to be allowed to follow the procedures in this section rather than the procedures in section 116C.57. The board shall grant the petition within 30 days unless the board finds good cause for denial.

Subd. 2. [APPLICABLE PROJECTS.] The requirements and procedures in this section may apply to the following projects:

(1) large electric power generating plants with a capacity of less than 80 megawatts;

(2) large electric power generating plants fueled by natural gas;

(3) projects to retrofit or repower an existing large electric power generating plant to one burning primarily natural gas or other similar clean fuel;

(4) any natural gas peaking facility designed for or capable of storing on a single site more than 100,000 gallons of liquefied natural gas or synthetic gas;

(5) high voltage transmission lines in excess of 200 kilovolts less than five miles in length in Minnesota; and

(6) high voltage transmission lines in excess of 200 kilovolts if at least 80 percent of the distance of the line in Minnesota will be located along existing high voltage transmission line right-of-way. 

Subd. 3. [APPLICATION.] The applicant for a site certificate or route permit for any of the projects listed in subdivision 2 who chooses to follow these procedures shall submit information the board may require, but the applicant is not required to propose a second site or route for the project. The applicant shall identify in the application any other sites or routes that were rejected by the applicant and the board may identify additional sites or routes to consider during the processing of the application. The chair of the board shall determine whether an application is complete and advise the applicant of any deficiencies.

Subd. 4. [NOTICE OF APPLICATION.] On submitting an application under this section, the applicant shall provide the same notice as required by section 116C.57, subdivision 2b.

Subd. 5. [ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW.] For the projects identified in subdivision 2 and following these procedures, the board shall prepare an environmental assessment worksheet. The board shall include as part of the environmental assessment worksheet alternative sites or routes identified by the board and shall address mitigating measures for all of the sites or routes considered. The environmental assessment worksheet is the only state environmental review document required to be prepared on the project.

Subd. 6. [PUBLIC MEETING.] The board shall hold a public meeting in the area where the facility is proposed to be located. The board shall give notice of the public meeting in the same manner as notice for a public hearing. The board shall provide opportunity at the public meeting for any person to present comments and to ask questions of the applicant and board staff. The board shall also afford interested persons an opportunity to submit written comments into the record.

Subd. 7. [TIMING.] The board shall make a final decision on an application within 60 days after completion of the public meeting. A final decision on the request for a site permit or route permit under this section must be made within six months after the chair's determination that an application is complete. The time for the final decision may be extended for up to 45 days for good cause and if all parties agree.

Subd. 8. [CONSIDERATIONS.] The considerations in section 116C.57, subdivision 4, apply to any projects subject to this section.

Subd. 9. [FINAL DECISION.] (a) A site permit may not be issued in violation of the site selection standards and criteria established in this section and in rules adopted by the board. The board shall indicate the reasons for any refusal and indicate changes in size or type of facility necessary to allow site designation. When the board designates a site, it shall issue a site permit to the applicant with any appropriate conditions. The board shall publish a notice of its decision in the State Register within 30 days of issuance of the site permit.

(b) A route designation may not be made in violation of the route selection standards and criteria established in this section and in rules adopted by the board. When the board designates a route, it shall issue a permit for the construction of a high voltage transmission line specifying the type, design, routing, right-of-way preparation, and facility construction it deems necessary and specifying any other appropriate conditions. The board may order the construction of high voltage transmission line facilities that are capable of expansion in transmission capacity through multiple circuiting or design modifications. The board shall publish a notice of its decision in the State Register within 30 days of issuance of the permit.

Sec. 15. [116C.576] [EMERGENCY PERMIT.]

(a) Any utility whose electric power system requires the immediate construction of a large electric power generating plant or high voltage transmission line due to a major unforeseen event may apply to the board for an emergency permit after providing notice in writing to the public utilities commission of the major unforeseen event and the need for immediate construction. The permit must be issued in a timely manner, no later than 195 days after the board's acceptance of the application and upon a finding by the board that (1) a demonstrable emergency exists, (2) the emergency requires immediate construction, and (3) adherence to the procedures and time schedules specified in section 116C.57 would jeopardize the utility's electric power system or would jeopardize the utility's ability to meet the electric needs of its customers in an orderly and timely manner. 

(b) A public hearing to determine if an emergency exists must be held within 90 days of the application. The board, after notice and hearing, shall adopt rules specifying the criteria for emergency certification.

Sec. 16. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.58, is amended to read:

116C.58 [PUBLIC HEARINGS; NOTICE ANNUAL HEARING.]

The board shall hold an annual public hearing at a time and place prescribed by rule in order to afford interested persons an opportunity to be heard regarding its inventory of study areas and any other aspects of the board's activities and duties or policies specified in sections 116C.51 to 116C.69. The board shall hold at least one public hearing in each county where a site or route is being considered for designation pursuant to section 116C.57. Notice and agenda of public hearings and public meetings of the board held in each county shall be given by the board at least ten days in advance but no earlier than 45 days prior to such hearings or meetings. Notice shall be by publication in a legal newspaper of general circulation in the county in which the public hearing or public meeting is to be held and by certified mailed notice to chief executives of the regional development commissions, counties, organized towns and the incorporated municipalities in which a site or route is proposed. All hearings held for designating a site or route or for exempting a route shall be conducted by an administrative law judge from the office of administrative hearings pursuant to the contested case procedures of chapter 14. Any person may appear at the hearings and present testimony and exhibits and may question witnesses without the necessity of intervening as a formal party to the proceedings. any matters relating to the siting of large electric generating power plants and routing of high voltage transmission lines. At the meeting, the board shall advise the public of the permits issued by the board in the past year. The board shall provide at least ten days' notice, but no more than 45 days' notice, of the annual meeting by mailing notice to those persons who have requested notice and by publication in the board's "EQB Monitor."

Sec. 17. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.59, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [ADVISORY TASK FORCE.] The board may appoint one or more advisory task forces to assist it in carrying out its duties. Task forces appointed to evaluate sites or routes considered for designation shall be comprised of as many persons as may be designated by the board, but at least one representative from each of the following: Regional development commissions, counties and municipal corporations and one town board member from each county in which a site or route is proposed to be located. No officer, agent, or employee of a utility shall serve on an advisory task force. Reimbursement for expenses incurred shall be made pursuant to the rules governing state employees. The task forces expire as provided in section 15.059, subdivision 6. At the time the task force is appointed, the board shall specify the charge to the task force. The task force shall expire upon completion of its charge, upon designation by the board of alternative sites or routes to be included in the environmental impact statement, or upon the specific date identified by the board in the charge, whichever occurs first.

Sec. 18. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.59, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4. [SCIENTIFIC ADVISORY TASK FORCE.] The board may appoint one or more advisory task forces composed of technical and scientific experts to conduct research and make recommendations concerning generic issues such as health and safety, underground routes, double circuiting and long-range route and site planning. Reimbursement for expenses incurred shall be made pursuant to the rules governing reimbursement of state employees. The task forces expire as provided in section 15.059, subdivision 6. The time allowed for completion of a specific site or route procedure may not be extended to await the outcome of these generic investigations.

Sec. 19. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.60, is amended to read:

116C.60 [PUBLIC MEETINGS; TRANSCRIPT OF PROCEEDINGS; WRITTEN RECORDS.]

Meetings of the board, including hearings, shall must be open to the public. Minutes shall must be kept of board meetings and a complete record of public hearings shall be kept. All books, records, files, and correspondence of the board shall must be available for public inspection at any reasonable time. The council shall board is also be subject to chapter 13D. 

Sec. 20. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 216B.2421, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [LARGE ENERGY FACILITY.] "Large energy facility" means:

(1) any electric power generating plant or combination of plants at a single site with a combined capacity of 80,000 kilowatts or more, or any facility of 50,000 kilowatts or more which requires oil, natural gas, or natural gas liquids as a fuel and for which an installation permit has not been applied for by May 19, 1977 pursuant to Minn. Reg. APC 3(a) and transmission lines directly associated with the plant that are necessary to interconnect the plant to the transmission system;

(2) any high voltage transmission line with a capacity of 200 100 kilovolts or more and (i) with more than 50 ten miles of its length in Minnesota, or (ii) any of its length in Minnesota and that crosses the state line; or, any high voltage transmission line with a capacity of 300 kilovolts or more with more than 25 miles of its length in Minnesota;

(3) any pipeline greater than six inches in diameter and having more than 50 miles of its length in Minnesota used for the transportation of coal, crude petroleum or petroleum fuels or oil or their derivatives;

(4) any pipeline for transporting natural or synthetic gas at pressures in excess of 200 pounds per square inch with more than 50 miles of its length in Minnesota;

(5) any facility designed for or capable of storing on a single site more than 100,000 gallons of liquefied natural gas or synthetic gas;

(6) any underground gas storage facility requiring permit pursuant to section 103I.681;

(7) any nuclear fuel processing or nuclear waste storage or disposal facility; and

(8) any facility intended to convert any material into any other combustible fuel and having the capacity to process in excess of 75 tons of the material per hour.

Sec. 21. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 216B.2421, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 4. [MODIFYING EXISTING LARGE ENERGY FACILITY.] Refurbishing or upgrading an existing large energy facility through the replacement or addition of facility components does not require a certificate of need under section 216B.243, unless the changes lead to (1) a capacity increase of more than 100 megawatts, or ten percent of existing capacity, whichever is greater, or (2) operation at more than 50 percent higher voltage.

Sec. 22. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 216B.243, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [CERTIFICATE REQUIRED.] (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), no large energy facility shall may be sited or constructed in Minnesota without the issuance of a certificate of need by the commission pursuant to sections 216C.05 to 216C.30 and this section and consistent with the criteria for assessment of need.

(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a), a large energy facility that is a generation facility of 500 megawatts or less or a natural gas peaking facility not owned by a public or municipal utility or cooperative electric association and that is not to be included in the utility's or association's rate base does not need a certificate of need under this section.

(c) The commission may not issue a certificate of need for a generation facility with coal as its primary fuel, unless the commission finds that the facility implements the most stringent technology and processes technically achievable, to ensure the least impact on the state's environment from the facility. 

Sec. 23. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 216B.243, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 2a. [PUBLIC PURPOSE DESIGNATION.] (a) When filing for a certificate of need under this section, an applicant may also petition the commission to designate the proposed large energy facility a public purpose project. The commission shall approve or reject the petition at the same time the commission renders its decision under subdivision 5. Notwithstanding section 116C.63 or any other law to the contrary, eminent domain authority may not be used in constructing a large energy facility unless the commission designates the facility a public purpose project. The value paid for property in the exercise of eminent domain authority may be structured so as to provide for the payment of a portion of the revenue derived from the large energy facility over a period of years, rather than a lump sum payment at the time the property is taken.

(b) In deciding whether to designate a proposed large energy facility as a public purpose project, the commission shall consider whether the proposed facility:

(1) remedies a condition, or set of conditions, that, based on the utility's most recent forecast or consistent with the transmission expansion plan of a federally approved regional transmission organization or regional reliability entity, may materially limit the adequacy of electric supply, efficiency of electric service, or reliability of electric service to Minnesota consumers;

(2) was identified as a critical need by the relevant regional energy infrastructure planning group;

(3) is consistent with all relevant state goals and strategies approved by the legislature under section 216B.017; and

(4) is otherwise in the public interest.

Sec. 24. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 216B.243, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3. [SHOWING REQUIRED FOR CONSTRUCTION.] No (a) A proposed large energy facility shall may not be certified for construction unless the applicant can show that demand for electricity cannot be met more cost-effectively through energy conservation and load-management measures and unless the applicant has otherwise justified its need.

(b) In assessing need, the commission shall evaluate:

(1) the accuracy of the long-range energy demand forecasts on which the necessity for the facility is based;

(2) the effect of existing or possible energy conservation programs under sections 216C.05 to 216C.30 and this section or other federal or state legislation on long-term energy demand;

(3) the relationship of the proposed facility to overall state and regional energy needs, as described in the most recent state energy policy and conservation report prepared under section 216C.18 including consideration of (i) the most recent state energy security blueprint under section 216B.015, (ii) the most recent relevant regional energy infrastructure planning group report under section 216B.019, and (iii) information from federal and regional reliability organizations, regional transmission organizations, and other relevant sources;

(4) promotional activities that may have given rise to the demand for this facility;

(5) socially beneficial uses of the output (3) environmental and socioeconomic benefits of this facility, including its uses to protect or enhance environmental quality, to increase reliability of energy supply in Minnesota and the region, and to induce future development;

(6) the effects of the facility in inducing future development; 

(7) (4) possible alternatives for satisfying the energy demand or transmission needs including but not limited to potential for increased efficiency and upgrading of existing energy generation and transmission facilities, load management programs, and distributed generation;

(8) (5) the policies, rules, and regulations of other state and federal agencies and local governments; and

(9) any (6) feasible combination of energy conservation improvements, required under section 216B.241, sections 216C.05 to 216C.30, or other available conservation programs that can (i) reasonably replace a significant part or all of the energy to be provided by the proposed facility, and (ii) compete with it economically and in terms of reliability; and

(7) whether the proposed large energy facility was recommended for construction by the relevant regional energy infrastructure planning group.

Sec. 25. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 216B.243, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4. [APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE; HEARING.] Any person proposing to construct a large energy facility shall apply for a certificate of need prior to construction of the facility. The application shall must be on forms and in a manner established by the commission. In reviewing each application the commission shall hold at least one public hearing pursuant to chapter 14. The public hearing shall must be held at a location and hour reasonably calculated to be convenient for the public. An objective of the public hearing shall must be to obtain public opinion on the necessity of granting a certificate of need. The commission shall designate a commission employee whose duty shall be to facilitate citizen participation in the hearing process. If the commission and the environmental quality board determine that a joint hearing on siting and need under this subdivision and section 116C.57, subdivision 2d, is feasible, more efficient, and may further the public interest, a joint hearing under those subdivisions may be held.

Sec. 26. [INSTRUCTION TO REVISOR.]

The revisor of statutes shall renumber Minnesota Statutes, section 116C.57, subdivision 6, as section 116C.57, subdivision 9.

Sec. 27. [REPEALER.]

Minnesota Statutes 2000, sections 116C.55; 116C.57, subdivisions 3, 5, and 5a; and 116C.67, are repealed.

Sec. 28. [EFFECTIVE DATE.]

This article is effective the day following final enactment.

ARTICLE 3

REGULATORY FLEXIBILITY

Section 1. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 216B.16, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7. [ENERGY COST ADJUSTMENT.] (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, the commission may permit a public utility to file rate schedules containing provisions for the automatic adjustment of charges for public utility service in direct relation to changes in: (1) federally regulated wholesale rates for energy delivered through interstate facilities; (2) direct costs for natural gas delivered; or (3) costs for fuel used in generation of electricity or the manufacture of gas. 

(b) In reviewing utility fuel purchases under this or any other provision, the commission shall allow and encourage a utility to have a combination of measures to manage price volatility and risk, including but not limited to having an appropriate share of the utility's supply come from long-term and medium-term contracts, in order to minimize consumer exposure to fuel price volatility.

Sec. 2. [216B.169] [RENEWABLE AND HIGH EFFICIENCY ENERGY RATE OPTIONS.]

(a) Each public utility, cooperative association, and municipal utility shall offer its customers, and shall advertise the offer at least annually, one or more options that allow a customer to determine that a certain amount of the electricity generated or purchased on behalf of the customer is (1) renewable energy as defined in section 216B.2422, subdivision 1, paragraph (c), or (2) high-efficiency, low-emissions, distributed generation such as fuel cells and microturbines fueled by a renewable fuel.

(b) Each public utility shall file an implementation plan within 90 days of the effective date of this section to implement paragraph (a).

(c) Rates charged to customers must be calculated using the utility's or association's cost of acquiring the energy for the customer and must be (1) the difference between the cost of generating or purchasing the renewable energy and the cost of generating or purchasing the same amount of nonrenewable energy; and (2) distributed on a per kilowatt-hour basis among all customers who choose to participate in the program. Implementation of these rate options may reflect a reasonable amount of lead time necessary to arrange acquisition of the energy.

(d) If a utility is not able to arrange an adequate supply of renewable or high-efficiency energy to meet its customers' demand under this section, the utility must file a report with the commission detailing its efforts and reasons for its failure.

(e) The commission, by order, may establish a program for tradeable credits for renewable energy under this section.

Sec. 3. [216B.2411] [CONSERVATION INVESTMENT PROGRAM.]

Subdivision 1. [DEFINITIONS.] For purposes of this section and section 216B.16, subdivision 6b, the terms defined in this subdivision have the meanings given them.

(a) "Commission" means the public utilities commission.

(b) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of commerce.

(c) "Customer facility" means all buildings, structures, equipment, and installations at a single site.

(d) "Department" means the department of commerce.

(e) "Energy conservation improvement" means the purchase or installation of a device, method, material, or project:

(1) that reduces consumption of or increases efficiency in the use of electricity or natural gas, including but not limited to insulation and ventilation, storm or thermal doors or windows, caulking and weatherstripping, furnace efficiency modifications, thermostat or lighting controls, awnings, or systems to turn off or vary the delivery of energy;

(2) that either (i) creates, converts, or actively uses energy from renewable sources such as solar, wind, and biomass, or (ii) recovers energy for reuse, from air or water or other similar material, provided that the device or method conforms with national or state performance and quality standards whenever applicable; 

(3) that seeks to provide energy savings through reclamation or recycling and that is used as part of the infrastructure of an electric generation, transmission, or distribution system within the state or a natural gas distribution system within the state;

(4) that provides research or development of new means of increasing energy efficiency or conserving energy or research or development of improvement of existing means of increasing energy efficiency or conserving energy; or

(5) that either (i) is a renewable energy facility, such as a facility utilizing agricultural wastes as biomass fuel, or a methane digester facility associated with livestock feedlots for the production of energy, the grants for which should be coordinated with loans under the shared savings loan program established in section 17.115 to the extent feasible; (ii) increases a customer's ability to control the amount and scheduling of energy purchased from a utility, such as through the installation of a distributed generation facility as described in section 216B.169; or (iii) allows the utility or the customer to manage customer load if doing so reduces the demand for or increases the efficiency of electric services.

(f) "Investments and expenses of a public utility" includes the investments and expenses incurred by a public utility in connection with an energy conservation improvement, including but not limited to:

(1) the differential in interest cost between the market rate and the rate charged on a no-interest or below-market interest loan made by a public utility to a customer for the purchase or installation of an energy conservation improvement; and

(2) the difference between the utility's cost of purchase or installation of energy conservation improvements and any price charged by a public utility to a customer for those improvements.

(g) "Large electric customer facility" means a customer facility that imposes a peak electrical demand on an electric utility's system of not less than 10,000 kilowatts, measured in the same way as the utility that serves the customer facility measures electrical demand for billing purposes, and for which electric services are provided at retail on a single bill by a utility operating in the state.

(h) "Utility" means a public utility, municipal utility, electric cooperative association, or any combination of these authorized under Minnesota law.

Subd. 2. [INVESTMENT, EXPENDITURE, AND CONTRIBUTION; PUBLIC UTILITY.] (a) Each public utility shall spend and invest for energy conservation improvements under this subdivision the following amounts:

(1) for a public utility that furnishes gas service, 0.5 percent of its annual average gross operating revenues over the previous five years from service provided in the state;

(2) for a public utility that furnishes electric service, 1.5 percent of its annual average gross operating revenues over the previous five years from service provided in the state; and

(3) for a public utility that furnishes electric service and that operates a nuclear-powered electric generating plant within the state, 2.0 percent of its annual average gross operating revenues over the previous five years from service provided in the state.

(b) Load management may only be used to meet the requirements for energy conservation improvements under this section if it results in a demonstrable reduction in consumption of energy. However, up to five percent of the total amount required to be spent under this section may be spent on conservation improvements described in subdivision 1, paragraph (e), clause (5). Each public utility subject to this subdivision may spend and invest annually up to 15 percent of the total amount required to be spent and invested on energy conservation improvements under this section by the utility on research and development projects that meet the definition of energy conservation improvement in subdivision 1 and that are funded directly by the public utility. 

Subd. 3. [CONSERVATION IMPROVEMENT BY COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATION OR MUNICIPALITY.] (a) This subdivision applies to:

(1) a cooperative electric association that generates and transmits electricity to associations that provide electricity at retail including a cooperative electric association not located in this state that serves associations or others in the state;

(2) a municipality that provides electric service to retail customers; and

(3) a municipality with gross operating revenues in excess of $5,000,000 from sales of natural gas to retail customers.

(b) Each cooperative electric association and municipality subject to this subdivision shall spend and invest for energy conservation improvements under this subdivision the following amounts:

(1) for a municipality, 0.5 percent of its annual average gross operating revenues over the previous five years from the sale of gas and 1.0 percent of its annual average gross operating revenues over the previous five years from the sale of electricity; and

(2) for a cooperative electric association, 1.5 percent of its annual average gross operating revenues over the previous five years from service provided in the state.

(c) Each municipality and cooperative association subject to this subdivision shall identify and implement energy conservation improvement spending and investments that are appropriate for the municipality or association. Municipal utilities and electric cooperative associations may agree to form associations or organizations to aggregate their conservation spending obligations and to jointly provide energy conservation services to the customers of the municipal utilities or associations, and shall notify the commissioner in writing of the formation of such an association or organization.

(d) Each municipality and cooperative electric association subject to this subdivision may spend and invest annually up to 15 percent of the total amount required to be spent and invested on energy conservation improvements under this subdivision on research and development projects that meet the definition of energy conservation improvement in subdivision 1 and that are funded directly by the municipality or cooperative electric association.

(e) Load management may only be used to meet the requirements of this subdivision if it reduces the demand for or increases the efficiency of electric services.

(f) Up to five percent of the total amount required to be spent under this section may be spent on conservation improvements described in subdivision 1, paragraph (e), clause (5).

(g) A generation and transmission cooperative electric association may include as spending and investment required under this subdivision conservation improvement spending and investment by cooperative electric associations that provide electric service at retail to consumers and that are served by the generation and transmission association.

Subd. 4. [PROGRAMS.] (a) The commissioner may by rule as resources allow, or by order, establish standards and criteria for the provision of energy conservation improvements, including standard programs, to efficiently and effectively provide energy conservation services to each utility's energy consumers on a nondiscriminatory basis and cost-effective manner and to provide certainty to utilities and associations as to what constitutes an acceptable energy conservation improvement under this section. The list of standard programs may include rebates for high-efficiency appliances, rebates or subsidies for high-efficiency lamps, small business energy audits, and building recommissioning. A utility may adhere to this list of programs or may offer other conservation programs not on the list. 

(b) Each public utility shall ensure that a portion of the money spent on residential conservation improvement programs is devoted to programs that directly address the needs of renters and low-income persons unless an insufficient number of appropriate programs is available.

(c) A utility, a political subdivision, or a nonprofit or community organization that has suggested an energy conservation improvement program to a public utility, the attorney general acting on behalf of consumers and small business interests, or a utility customer that has suggested a program and is not represented by the attorney general under section 8.33 may petition the commission to modify or discontinue a utility energy conservation improvement program, and the commission may do so if it determines that the program is not sufficiently cost effective, does not adequately address the residential conservation improvement needs of low-income persons, has a long-range negative effect on one or more classes of customers, or is otherwise not in the public interest. The person petitioning for commission review has the burden of proof. The commission shall reject a petition that, on its face, fails to make a reasonable argument that a program is not in the public interest.

Subd. 5. [ENERGY SAVINGS GOALS.] (a) By August 1, 2001, and every three years thereafter, the commissioner shall develop energy savings goals:

(1) in kilowatts and kilowatt-hours that each public utility providing retail electric service in this state can reasonably be expected to achieve at the level of energy conservation improvement expenditures required under this section; and

(2) in cubic feet of natural gas that each public utility providing retail natural gas service in this state can reasonably be expected to achieve at the level of conservation improvement expenditures required under this section.

(b) In consultation with the commissioner, municipal utilities and cooperative electric associations shall develop and submit energy savings goals to the commissioner by August 1, 2001, and every three years thereafter.

(c) Municipal utilities and electric cooperative associations that agree to aggregate their energy conservation obligations and resources by forming associations or organizations to provide energy conservation services to their customers may develop goals for the association or organization, in lieu of goals for individual members.

Subd. 6. [OVERVIEW; REVIEW AND AUDIT; PUBLIC UTILITIES.] (a) By January 1, 2002, and every three years thereafter, each public utility shall provide the commissioner with a prospective overview of the utility's planned conservation activities and the anticipated energy savings on a triennial basis. This overview must include a description of the types of activities, the consumer sectors targeted by each activity, and the anticipated energy savings and costs of each activity. This overview must also indicate, for each type of activity, how much additional cost-effective conservation is likely to be achieved in subsequent years. A public utility may request the commissioner to approve or reject the utility's plan prior to implementing the plan. The commissioner may do so if resources permit.

(b) By April 1, 2005, and every three years thereafter, each public utility shall provide a report to the commissioner, acting on behalf of the commission, summarizing the utility's conservation activities and energy savings resulting from those activities under this section. The public utility shall include in the report the results of an independent audit performed by the department or an auditor with experience in the provision of energy conservation and energy efficiency services approved by the commissioner and chosen by the utility. The audit must specify the actual energy savings or increased efficiency in the use of energy within the service territory of the utility that is the result of the spending and investments. Annually beginning by April 1, 2003, except for those years a full audit is due, each utility shall submit a report to the commissioner detailing the utility's energy conservation activities for the previous year and provide information regarding the cost effectiveness of those activities.

(c) The audit provided under paragraph (b) shall evaluate the cost effectiveness of the utility's conservation programs. In making this evaluation, the audit shall consider whether the utility's programs:

(1) fairly address each of the utility's consumer classes and market sectors; 

(2) use accurate and complete data in calculating costs and energy savings;

(3) identify and target investments and improvements that have a high potential for saving energy;

(4) indicate an adequate commitment to implementing highly cost-effective conservation programs; and

(5) comply with the provisions of this section and associated rules and orders.

An audit must give a negative evaluation if it finds the utility's overall energy conservation program has not been cost effective or has failed to satisfy any of the criteria. Up to five percent of a utility's conservation spending obligation under this section may be used for program pre-evaluation, research and testing, monitoring, and program audit and evaluation.

(d) Following each submittal of an annual report or a triennial audit, the commissioner shall issue a report to the commission as to whether:

(1) the utility's overall conservation program is cost effective and is in compliance with this section and all applicable rules or orders; and

(2) the utility has been successful in achieving the energy savings goals for that utility under subdivision 5.

(e) Following two or more negative evaluations under paragraph (b), the commission may determine that a utility is not implementing adequate energy conservation programs. In that event, the commission may order the utility to pay into the energy and conservation account under subdivision 10, up to 50 percent of the utility's or association's conservation spending obligation under this section. The commissioner shall select a third party other than the utility by competitive bid to provide conservation improvements in the utility's service territory.

Subd. 7. [OVERVIEW AND PROGRAM EVALUATION; MUNICIPAL AND COOPERATIVE UTILITIES.] (a) By January 1, 2002, and every three years thereafter, each municipal utility and electric cooperative association shall provide the commissioner with a prospective overview of the utility's or association's planned conservation activities and the anticipated energy savings on a triennial basis. This overview must include a description of the types of activities, the consumer sectors targeted by each, and the anticipated energy savings and costs of each activity. This overview must also indicate, for each type of activity, how much additional cost-effective conservation is likely to be achieved in subsequent years.

(b) By February 2, 2002, and every three years thereafter, each municipal utility or cooperative association shall provide an evaluation to the commission summarizing the utility's or association's conservation activities and energy savings resulting from those activities under this section. In consultation with the commissioner, the municipal utility or cooperative association shall evaluate its energy and capacity conservation programs, develop plans for future programs, and report its findings to the commission. The evaluation must develop program and performance goals that recognize customer class, utility service area demographics, cost of program delivery, regional economic indicators, and utility load shape. The program evaluation must address:

(1) whether the utility or association has implemented or is implementing cost-effective energy conservation programs and specify the energy and capacity savings within the service territory or association that is the result of conservation improvement programs, using a list of baseline energy and capacity savings assumptions developed in consultation with the department of commerce;

(2) the availability of basic conservation services and programs to customers;

(3) methodologies that best quantify energy savings, cost effectiveness, and the potential for cost-effective conservation improvements;

(4) the value of local administration of conservation programs in meeting local and statewide needs; 

(5) the effect on customer bills;

(6) the role of capacity conservation in meeting utility planning needs and state energy goals;

(7) the ability of energy conservation programs to avoid the need for construction of generation facilities and transmission lines;

(8) whether the utility's or association's programs address all of the following consumer market sectors: farm, residential, commercial, and industrial; and

(9) whether the utility's or association's programs use accurate and auditable data in calculating costs and energy savings.

(c) Municipal utilities and electric cooperative associations that aggregate their energy conservation obligations and resources by forming associations or organizations to provide energy conservation services to their customers may submit overviews, program evaluations, and annual reports jointly.

Subd. 8. [ADDITIONAL CONSERVATION SPENDING.] (a) Nothing in this section prohibits any utility from spending or investing more for energy conservation improvements than is required in this section.

(b) The commission may require a public utility to invest or spend more than is required under this section if the commission finds that additional investments would be cost effective, and the utility's most recent forecast projects a significant supply deficit to meet demand and energy requirements. If the commission orders the utility to make additional conservation investments under this section, the commission shall provide for financial incentives for these investments under section 216B.16.

Subd. 9. [LARGE CUSTOMER OPT-OUT.] (a) The owner of a large electric customer facility may petition the commissioner to exempt both electric and gas utilities serving the large energy customer facility from the investment and expenditure requirements of subdivision 2 with respect to retail revenues attributable to the facility. The petition must contain an audit by a consultant registered with the department and selected by the customer, certifying that the customer has implemented all energy conservation improvements with a ten-year simple payback or less. Within five business days of receipt of a petition that contains this audit, the commissioner shall either:

(1) grant the petition exempting both electric and gas utilities serving the large energy customer facility from the investment and expenditure requirements of this section with respect to all of the retail revenues attributable to the facility; or

(2) order a confirming audit of the customer.

(b) The decision to grant the petition or order a confirming audit is entirely within the discretion of the commissioner. The cost of the initial audit must be borne by the customer.

(c) If the commissioner orders a confirming audit, the commissioner shall select a contractor from the list maintained by the department and notify the customer.

(d) If the confirming audit supports the initial audit:

(1) the commissioner shall issue an order granting the petition within five business days; and

(2) the cost of the confirming audit must be borne by the electric and gas utilities serving the customer, in relative proportion to the total retail revenues attributable to the customer, and deducted from the utility's conservation spending obligation under this section. 

(e) If the confirming audit does not support the initial audit:

(1) the cost of the confirming audit must be borne by the customer; and

(2) the commissioner may suspend the consultant that conducted the initial audit from the list maintained by the department.

(f) The commissioner shall create, maintain, and publish on the department's Web site a list of contractors available to conduct audits under this subdivision. The commissioner may spend no more than $20,000 per biennium under this subdivision.

(g) If a petition is filed on or before October 1 of any year, the order of the commissioner to exempt revenues attributable to the facility can be effective no earlier than January 1 of the following year. The commissioner may, after investigation, recommend that any exemption granted under this paragraph be rescinded upon a determination that additional energy conservation improvements with a simple payback of ten years or less are available at the large electric customer facility. For the purposes of investigations by the commissioner under this paragraph, the owner of any large electric customer facility shall, upon request, provide the commissioner with updated information comparable to that originally supplied in or with the owner's original petition under paragraph (a).

(h) For purposes of this section, "gross operating revenues" do not include revenues from large electric customer facilities exempted by the commissioner under this subdivision. A public utility may not spend for or invest in energy conservation improvements that directly benefit a large electric customer facility for which the commissioner has issued an exemption pursuant to this subdivision.

Subd. 10. [ENERGY AND CONSERVATION ACCOUNT.] (a) Money in the account is appropriated to the department for programs designed to meet the energy conservation needs of low-income persons and to make energy conservation improvements in areas not adequately served including research and development projects included in the definition of energy conservation improvement in subdivision 1. Interest on money in the account accrues to the account.

(b) Using information collected under section 216C.02, subdivision 1, paragraph (b), the commissioner must, to the extent possible, allocate enough money to programs for low-income persons to assure that their needs are being adequately addressed. The commissioner must request the commissioner of finance to transfer money from the account to the commissioner of economic security for an energy conservation program for low-income persons. In establishing programs under this paragraph, the commissioner must consult political subdivisions and nonprofit and community organizations, especially organizations engaged in providing energy and weatherization assistance to low-income persons. At least one program must address the need for energy conservation improvements in areas in which a high percentage of residents use fuel oil or propane to fuel their source of home heating.

(c) The commissioner may contract with a political subdivision, a nonprofit or community organization, a public utility, a municipality, or a cooperative electric association to implement its programs under this section. The commissioner may provide grants to any person to conduct research and development projects in accordance with this section.

Subd. 11. [RECOVERY OF EXPENSES.] (a) The commission shall allow a public utility to recover expenses resulting from a conservation improvement program consistent with the requirements of this section and contributions to the energy and conservation account, unless the recovery would be inconsistent with a financial incentive proposal approved by the commission. In addition, a utility may file annually, or the public utilities commission may require the utility to file, and the commission may approve, rate schedules containing provisions for the automatic adjustment of charges for utility service in direct relation to changes in the expenses of the utility for real and personal property taxes, fees, and permits, the amounts of which the utility cannot control. 

(b) A public utility is eligible to file for adjustment for real and personal property taxes, fees, and permits under this subdivision only if, in the year previous to the year in which it files for adjustment, it has spent or invested at least 2.25 percent of its gross revenues from provision of electric service, excluding gross operating revenues from electric service provided in the state to large electric customer facilities for which the commissioner has issued an exemption under subdivision 9, and 0.75 percent of its gross revenues from provision of gas service, excluding gross operating revenues from gas services provided in the state to large electric customer facilities for which the commissioner has issued an exemption under subdivision 9, for that year for energy conservation improvements under this section.

Subd. 12. [OWNERSHIP OF ENERGY CONSERVATION IMPROVEMENT.] An energy conservation improvement made to or installed in a building in accordance with this section, except systems owned by the utility and designed to turn off, limit, or vary the delivery of energy, are the exclusive property of the owner of the building except to the extent that the improvement is subjected to a security interest in favor of the utility in case of a loan to the building owner. The utility has no liability for loss, damage, or injury caused directly or indirectly by an energy conservation improvement except for negligence by the utility in purchase, installation, or modification of the product.

Subd. 13. [FEDERAL LAW PROHIBITIONS.] If investments by public utilities in energy conservation improvements are in any manner prohibited or restricted by federal law and there is a provision under which the prohibition or restriction may be waived, then the commission, the governor, or any other necessary state agency or officer shall take all necessary and appropriate steps to secure a waiver with respect to those public utility investments in energy conservation improvements included in this section.

Subd. 14. [EFFICIENT LIGHTING PROGRAM.] (a) Each public utility, cooperative electric association, and municipal utility that provides electric service to retail customers shall include as part of its conservation improvement activities a program to strongly encourage the use of fluorescent and high intensity discharge lamps. The program must include at least a public information campaign to encourage use of the lamps and proper management of spent lamps by all customer classifications.

(b) A public utility that provides electric service at retail to 200,000 or more customers shall establish, either directly or through contracts with other persons, including lamp manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, and retailers and local government units, a system to collect for delivery to a reclamation or recycling facility spent fluorescent and high-intensity discharge lamps from households and from small businesses as defined in section 645.445 that generate an average of fewer than ten spent lamps per year.

(c) A collection system must include establishing reasonably convenient locations for collecting spent lamps from households and financial incentives sufficient to encourage spent lamp generators to take the lamps to the collection locations. Financial incentives may include coupons for purchase of new fluorescent or high-intensity discharge lamps, a cash-back system, or any other financial incentive or group of incentives designed to collect the maximum number of spent lamps from households and small businesses that is reasonably feasible.

(d) A public utility that provides electric service at retail to fewer than 200,000 customers, a cooperative electric association, or a municipal utility that provides electric service at retail to customers may establish a collection system under paragraphs (b) and (c) as part of conservation improvement activities required under this section.

(e) The commissioner of the pollution control agency may not, unless clearly required by federal law, require a public utility, cooperative electric association, or municipality that establishes a household fluorescent and high-intensity discharge lamp collection system under this section to manage the lamps as hazardous waste as long as the lamps are managed to avoid breakage and are delivered to a recycling or reclamation facility that removes mercury and other toxic materials contained in the lamps prior to placement of the lamps in solid waste.

(f) If a utility contracts with a local government unit to provide a collection system under this subdivision, the contract must provide for payment to the local government unit of all the unit's incremental costs of collecting and managing spent lamps. 

(g) All the costs incurred by a public utility, cooperative electric association, or municipal utility for promotion and collection of fluorescent and high-intensity discharge lamps under this subdivision constitute conservation improvement spending under this section.

Sec. 4. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 216B.2422, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [RESOURCE PLAN FILING AND APPROVAL.] A utility shall file a resource plan with the commission periodically in accordance with rules adopted by the commission. The commission shall approve, reject, or modify the plan of a public utility, as defined in section 216B.02, subdivision 4, consistent with the public interest. In the resource plan proceedings of all other utilities, the commission's utility may request the commission to approve or reject the resource plan, and the commission may do so if the resources of both the commission and the department permit. Otherwise, the filing of the plan is informational only. If the utility requests the commissioner to waive the need for a certificate of need under subdivision 6 or to approve a bidding schedule under subdivision 5, the commission's order is binding. Otherwise, the commission's order shall be is advisory and the order's findings and conclusions shall constitute prima facie evidence which that may be rebutted by substantial evidence in all other proceedings. With respect to utilities other than those defined in section 216B.02, subdivision 4, the commission shall consider the filing requirements and decisions in any comparable proceedings in another jurisdiction. As a part of its resource plan filing, a utility shall include the least cost plan for meeting 50 and 75 percent of all new and refurbished capacity needs through a combination of conservation and renewable energy resources.

Sec. 5. [452.25] [JOINT VENTURES BY UTILITIES.]

Subdivision 1. [APPLICABILITY.] This section applies to all home rule charter and statutory cities, except as provided in section 6.

Subd. 2. [DEFINITIONS.] For purposes of this section:

(a) "City" means a statutory or home rule charter city, section 410.015 to the contrary notwithstanding.

(b) "Cooperative association" means a cooperative association organized under chapter 308A.

(c) "Governing body" means (1) the city council in a city that operates a municipal utility, or (2) a board, commission, or body empowered by law, city charter, or ordinance or resolution of the city council to control and operate the municipal utility.

(d) "Investor-owned utility" means an entity that provides utility services to the public under chapter 216B and that is owned by private persons.

(e) "Municipal power agency" means an organization created under sections 453.51 to 453.62.

(f) "Municipal utility" means a utility owned, operated, or controlled by a city to provide utility services.

(g) "Public utility" or "utility" means a provider of electric or water facilities or services or an entity engaged in other similar or related operations authorized by law or charter.

Subd. 3. [AUTHORITY.] (a) Upon the approval of its elected utilities commission or, if there be none, its city council, a municipal utility may enter into a joint venture with other municipal utilities, municipal power agencies, cooperative associations, or investor-owned utilities to provide utility services. Retail electric utility services provided by a joint venture must be within the boundaries of each utility's exclusive electric service territory as shown on the map of service territories maintained by the department of commerce. The terms and conditions of the joint venture are subject to ratification by the governing bodies of the respective utilities and may include the formation of a corporate or other separate legal entity with an administrative and governance structure independent of the respective utilities. 

(b) A corporate or other separate legal entity, if formed:

(1) has the authority and legal capacity and, in the exercise of the joint venture, the powers, privileges, responsibilities, and duties authorized by this section;

(2) is subject to the laws and rules applicable to the organization, internal governance, and activities of the entity;

(3) in connection with its property and affairs and in connection with property within its control, may exercise any and all powers that may be exercised by a natural person or a private corporation or other private legal entity in connection with similar property and affairs; and

(4) a joint venture that does not include an investor-owned utility may elect to be deemed a municipal utility or a cooperative association for purposes of chapter 216B or other federal or state law regulating utility operations; and

(5) a joint venture that includes an investor-owned utility must notify the public utilities commission 30 days in advance of offering services. Upon a finding by the commission, such joint venture will be subject to regulation under chapter 216B.

(c) Any corporation, if formed, must comply with section 465.719, subdivisions 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and 14. The term "political subdivision," as it is used in section 465.719, shall refer to the city council of a city.

Subd. 4. [RETAIL CUSTOMERS.] Unless the joint venture's retail electric rates, as defined in section 216B.02, subdivision 5, of a joint venture that does not include an investor-owned utility, are approved by the governing body of each municipal utility or municipal power agency and the board of directors of each cooperative association that is party to the joint venture, the retail electric customers of the joint venture, if their number be more than 25, may elect to become subject to electric rate regulation by the public utilities commission as provided in chapter 216B. The election is subject to and must be carried out according to the procedures in section 216B.026 and, for these purposes, each retail electric customer of the joint venture is deemed a member or stockholder as referred to in section 216B.026.

Subd. 5. [POWERS.] (a) A joint venture under this section has the powers, privileges, responsibilities, and duties of the separate utilities entering into the joint venture as the joint venture agreement may provide, including the powers under paragraph (b), except that:

(1) with respect to retail electric utility services, a joint venture shall not enlarge or extend the service territory served by the joint venture by virtue of the authority granted in sections 216B.44, 216B.45, and 216B.47;

(2) a joint venture may extend service to an existing connected load of 2,000 kilowatts or more, pursuant to section 216B.42, when the load is outside of the assigned service area of the joint venture, or of the electric utilities party to the joint venture, only if the load is already being served by one of the electric utilities party to the joint venture; and

(3) a privately owned utility, as defined in section 216B.02, may extend service to an existing connected load of 2,000 kilowatts or more, pursuant to section 216B.42, when the load is located within the assigned service territory of the joint venture, or of the electric utilities party to the joint venture, only if the load is already being served by that privately owned utility.

The limitations of clauses (1) to (3) do not apply if written consent to the action is obtained from the electric utility assigned to and serving the affected service territory or connected load.

(b) Joint venture powers include, but are not limited to, the authority to:

(1) finance, own, acquire, construct, and operate facilities necessary to provide utility services to retail customers of the joint venture, including generation, transmission, and distribution facilities, and like facilities used in other utility services; 

(2) combine assigned service territories, in whole or in part, upon notice to, hearing by, and approval of the public utilities commission;

(3) serve customers in the utilities' service territories or in the combined service territory;

(4) combine, share, or employ administrative, managerial, operational, or other staff if combining or sharing will not degrade safety, reliability, or customer service standards;

(5) provide for joint administrative functions, such as meter reading and billings;

(6) purchase or sell utility services at wholesale for resale to customers;

(7) provide conservation programs, other utility programs, and public interest programs, such as cold weather shut-off protection and conservation spending programs, as required by law and rule; and

(8) participate as the parties deem necessary in providing utility services with other municipal utilities, cooperative utilities, investor-owned utilities, or other entities, public or private.

(c) Notwithstanding any contrary provision within this section, a joint venture formed under this section may engage in wholesale utility services unless the municipal utility, municipal power agency, cooperative association, or investor-owned utility party to the joint venture is prohibited under current law from conducting that activity; but, in any case, the joint venture may provide wholesale services to a municipal utility, a cooperative association, or an investor-owned utility that is party to the joint venture.

(d) This subdivision does not limit the authority of a joint venture to exercise rights of eminent domain for other utility purposes to the same extent as is permitted of those utilities party to the joint venture.

Subd. 6. [CONSTRUCTION.] (a) The powers conferred by this section are in addition to the powers conferred by other law or charter. A joint venture under this section, and a municipal utility with respect to any joint venture under this section, have the powers necessary to effect the intent and purpose of this section, including, but not limited to, the expenditure of public funds and the transfer of real or personal property in accordance with the terms and conditions of the joint venture and the joint venture agreement. This section is complete in itself with respect to the formation and operation of a joint venture under this section and with respect to a municipal utility, a cooperative association, or an investor-owned utility party to a joint venture related to their creation of and dealings with the joint venture, without regard to other laws or city charter provisions that do not specifically address or refer to this section or a joint venture created under this section.

(b) This section must not be construed to supersede or modify:

(1) the power of a city council conferred by charter to overrule or override any action of a governing body other than the actions of the joint venture;

(2) chapter 216B;

(3) any referendum requirements applicable to the creation of a new electric utility by a municipality under section 216B.46 or 216B.465; or

(4) any powers, privileges, or authority or any duties or obligations of a municipal utility, municipal power agency, or cooperative association acting as a separate legal entity without reference to a joint venture created under this section.

Sec. 6. [EXCEPTION.]

Laws 1996, chapter 300, section 1, as amended by Laws 1997, chapter 232, section 1, govern joint ventures created under it and those joint ventures are not governed by this section. 

Sec. 7. [EXEMPTION EXTENDED.]

The commissioner of commerce shall not review the exemption under Minnesota Statutes, section 216B.241, subdivision 1a, paragraph (b), of a large electric customer facility, as defined in Minnesota Statutes, section 216B.241, subdivision 1, paragraph (g), from the investment and expenditure requirements of Minnesota Statutes, section 216B.241, subdivision 1a, paragraph (b), for five years from the date the exemption was granted, provided the exemption was granted before April 15, 2001. This provision does not apply if the customer facility's peak electrical demand exceeds ten percent of the peak electrical demand of the facility as of the date the exemption was granted.

Sec. 8. [EFFECTIVE DATE.]

This article is effective the day following final enactment.

ARTICLE 4

INTERCONNECTION OF DISTRIBUTED RESOURCES

Section 1. [216B.68] [DEFINITIONS.]

Subdivision 1. [SCOPE.] The words and terms used in sections 216B.68 to 216B.75 have the meanings given them in this section.

Subd. 2. [APPLICATION FOR INTERCONNECTION AND PARALLEL OPERATION.] "Application for interconnection and parallel operation" with the utility system or application means a standard form of application developed by the commissioner and approved by the commission.

Subd. 3. [COMPANY.] "Company" means an electric utility operating a distribution system.

Subd. 4. [ELECTRIC UTILITY.] "Electric utility" means all electric utilities that own and operate equipment in the state for furnishing electric service at retail.

Subd. 5. [CUSTOMER.] "Customer" means any individual person or entity interconnected to the company's utility system for the purpose of receiving or exporting electric power from or to the company's utility system.

Subd. 6. [DISTRIBUTED GENERATION OR ON-SITE DISTRIBUTED GENERATION.] "Distributed generation" or "on-site distributed generation" means an electrical generating facility located at a customer's point of delivery or point of common coupling of ten megawatts or less and connected at a voltage less than or equal to 60 kilovolts that may be connected in parallel operation to the utility system.

Subd. 7. [FACILITY.] "Facility" means an electrical generating installation consisting of one or more on-site distributed generation units. The total capacity of a facility's individual on-site distributed generation units may exceed ten megawatts; however, no more than ten megawatts of a facility's capacity will be interconnected at any point in time at the point of common coupling under this section.

Subd. 8. [INTERCONNECTION.] "Interconnection" means the physical connection of distributed generation to the utility system in accordance with the requirements of this section so that parallel operation can occur.

Subd. 9. [INTERCONNECTION AGREEMENT.] "Interconnection agreement" means the standard form of agreement, developed and approved by the commission. The interconnection agreement sets forth the contractual conditions under which a company and a customer agree that one or more facilities may be interconnected with the company's utility system. 

Subd. 10. [PARALLEL OPERATION.] "Parallel operation" means the operation of on-site distributed generation by a customer while the customer is connected to the company's utility system.

Subd. 11. [POINT OF COMMON COUPLING.] "Point of common coupling" means the point where the electrical conductors of the company utility system are connected to the customer's conductors and where any transfer of electric power between the customer and the utility system takes place, such as switchgear near the meter.

Subd. 12. [PRECERTIFIED EQUIPMENT.] "Precertified equipment" means a specific generating and protective equipment system or systems that have been certified as meeting the applicable parts of this section relating to safety and reliability by an entity approved by the commission.

Subd. 13. [PRE-INTERCONNECTION STUDY.] "Pre-interconnection study" means a study or studies that may be undertaken by a company in response to its receipt of a completed application for interconnection and parallel operation with the utility system. Pre-interconnection studies may include, but are not limited to, service studies, coordination studies, and utility system impact studies.

Sec. 2. [216B.69] [INTERCONNECTION OF ON-SITE DISTRIBUTED GENERATION.]

Subdivision 1. [PURPOSE.] The purpose of this section is to:

(1) establish the terms and conditions that govern the interconnection and parallel operation of on-site distributed generation;

(2) provide cost savings and reliability benefits to customers;

(3) establish technical requirements that will promote the safe and reliable parallel operation of on-site distributed generation resources;

(4) enhance both the reliability of electric service and economic efficiency in the production and consumption of electricity; and

(5) promote the use of distributed resources in order to provide electric system benefits during periods of capacity constraints.

Subd. 2. [DISTRIBUTED GENERATION; GENERIC PROCEEDING.] (a) The commission shall initiate a proceeding within 30 days of the effective date of this section, to establish, by order, generic standards for utility tariffs for the interconnection and parallel operation of distributed generation of no more than ten megawatts of interconnected capacity. The commission shall ensure that these standards are, and continue to be, consistent with federal requirements and any distributed generation interconnection operational and safety standards adopted by the institute of electrical and electronics engineers, and must:

(1) provide for the low-cost, safe, and standardized interconnection of facilities fueled by natural gas, by a renewable fuel, by another similarly clean fuel, or by a combination of these fuels, which may include, but are not limited to, fuel cells, microturbines, wind turbines, or solar modules;

(2) take into account differing system requirements and hardware, as well as the overall demand load requirements of individual utilities;

(3) encourage and compensate for the addition of distributed generation power resources while reducing the cost to the utility's customers for energy, capacity, transmission, and distribution;

(4) minimize and avoid increases in the rates of other customers on the utility's system; 

(5) allow for reasonable terms and conditions, consistent with the cost and operating characteristics of the various technologies, so that a utility can reasonably be assured of the reliable, safe, and efficient operation of the interconnected equipment;

(6) ensure that backup power, supplemental power, and maintenance power are available to all customers and customer classes that desire this service;

(7) establish a standard interconnection agreement that sets forth the contractual conditions under which a company and a customer agree that one or more facilities may be interconnected with the company's utility system; and

(8) establish a standard application for interconnection and parallel operation with the utility system.

(b) The commission may develop financial incentives based on a public utility's performance in encouraging residential and small business customers to participate in on-site generation.

Subd. 3. [DISTRIBUTED GENERATION TARIFF.] Within 90 days of the issuance of an order under subdivision 2:

(1) each public utility providing electric service at retail shall file a distributed generation tariff consistent with that order, for commission approval or approval with modification; and

(2) each municipal utility and cooperative electric association shall adopt a distributed generation tariff that addresses the issues included in the commission's order.

Sec. 3. [216B.70] [DISCONNECTION AND RECONNECTION.]

Subdivision 1. [WHEN DISCONNECTION ALLOWED.] A utility may disconnect a distributed generation unit from the utility system if:

(1) the interconnection agreement with a customer expires or terminates, in accordance with the terms of the agreement;

(2) the facility is not in compliance with the technical requirements specified by the commissioner;

(3) continued interconnection will endanger persons or property; or

(4) written notice is provided at least seven business days prior to a service interruption for routine maintenance, repairs, and utility system modifications.

Subd. 2. [INCREMENTAL DEMAND CHARGES.] During the term of an interconnection agreement, a utility may require that a customer disconnect its distributed generation unit or take it off-line as a result of utility system conditions. The company may not assess the customer incremental demand charges arising from disconnecting the distributed generator as directed by the company during these periods.

Sec. 4. [216B.71] [PRE-INTERCONNECTION STUDIES FOR NONNETWORK INTERCONNECTION OF DISTRIBUTED GENERATION.]

Subdivision 1. [STUDIES.] A utility may conduct a service study, coordination study, or utility system impact study prior to interconnection of a distributed generation facility. When a study is deemed necessary, the scope of the study must be based on the characteristics of the particular distributed generation facility to be interconnected and the utility's system at the specific proposed location. At the customer's choice, a study related to interconnection of distributed generation on the customer's premises may be conducted by a qualified third party jointly selected by the utility and the customer. 

Subd. 2. [CUSTOMER FEE.] A utility generation facility not described in subdivision 1 may charge a customer a fee to offset its costs incurred in the conduct of a pre-interconnection study.

Subd. 3. [WHEN UTILITY CONDUCTS STUDY.] When a utility conducts an interconnection study, paragraphs (a) to (d) apply:

(a) The conduct of the pre-interconnection study may not take more than four weeks.

(b) A utility shall prepare written reports of the study findings and make them available to the customer.

(c) The study must consider both the costs incurred and the benefits realized as a result of the interconnection of distributed generation to the company's utility system.

(d) The utility shall provide the customer with an estimate of the study cost before the utility initiates the study.

Sec. 5. [216B.72] [PRE-INTERCONNECTION STUDIES FOR NETWORK INTERCONNECTION OF DISTRIBUTED GENERATION.]

Subdivision 1. [NOTICE AND FEES.] Prior to charging a pre-interconnection study fee for a network interconnection of distributed generation, a utility shall first advise the customer of the potential problems associated with interconnection of distributed generation with its network system.

Subd. 2. [REQUIREMENTS WHEN UTILITY CONDUCTS STUDY.] When a utility conducts an interconnection study, paragraphs (a) to (d) apply:

(a) The conduct of a pre-interconnection study may not take more than four weeks.

(b) A utility shall prepare written reports of the study findings and make them available to the customer.

(c) The study must consider both the costs incurred and the benefits realized as a result of the interconnection of distributed generation to the utility's system.

(d) The utility shall provide the customer with an estimate of the study cost before the utility initiates the study.

Sec. 6. [216B.73] [EQUIPMENT PRECERTIFICATION.]

(a) The commissioner may approve one or more entities that shall precertify equipment as described under this section.

(b) Testing organizations or facilities capable of analyzing the function, control, and protective systems of distributed generation units may request to be certified as testing organizations.

(c) Distributed generation units that are certified to be in compliance by an approved testing facility or organization must be installed on a company utility system in accordance with an approved interconnection control and protection scheme without further review of their design by the utility.

Sec. 7. [216B.74] [TIME FOR PROCESSING APPLICATIONS FOR INTERCONNECTION.]

(a) The interconnection of distributed generation to the utility system must take place within the schedules described in paragraphs (b) to (f):

(b) For a facility with precertified equipment, interconnection must take place within four weeks of the utility's receipt of a completed interconnection application. 

(c) For facilities without precertified equipment, connection must take place within six weeks of the utility's receipt of a completed application.

(d) If interconnection of a particular facility will require substantial capital upgrades to the utility system, the company shall provide the customer an estimate of the schedule and the customer's cost for the upgrade. If the customer desires to proceed with the upgrade, the customer and the company shall enter into a contract for the completion of the upgrade. The interconnection must take place no later than two weeks following the completion of the upgrade. The utility shall employ best reasonable efforts to complete the system upgrade in the shortest time reasonably practical.

(e) A utility shall use best reasonable efforts to interconnect facilities within the time frames described in this section. If in a particular instance, a utility determines that it cannot interconnect a facility within the time frames stated in this section, it must notify the applicant in writing of that fact. The notification must identify any reasons interconnection could not be performed in accordance with the schedule and provide an estimated date for interconnection.

(f) Applications for interconnection and parallel operation of distributed generation must be processed by the utility in a nondiscriminatory manner and in the order that they are received. It is recognized that certain applications may require minor modifications while they are being reviewed by the utility. These minor modifications to a pending application do not require that it be considered incomplete and treated as a new or separate application.

Sec. 8. [216B.75] [REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.]

(a) Each electric utility shall maintain records concerning applications received for interconnection and parallel operation of distributed generation. The records must include the date each application is received, documents generated in the course of processing each application, correspondence regarding each application, and the final disposition of each application.

(b) As part of the reporting requirement under section 216C.052, subdivision 4, every electric utility shall file with the reliability administrator a distributed generation interconnection report for the preceding calendar year that identifies each distributed generation facility interconnected with the utility's distribution system. The report must list the new distributed generation facilities interconnected with the system since the previous year's report, any distributed generation facilities no longer interconnected with the utility's system since the previous report, the capacity of each facility, and the feeder or other point on the company's utility system where the facility is connected. The annual report must also identify all applications for interconnection received during the previous one-year period, and the disposition of the applications.

Sec. 9. [EFFECTIVE DATE.]

This article is effective the day following final enactment.

ARTICLE 5

CONFORMING AMENDMENTS

Section 1. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.61, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [REGIONAL, COUNTY AND LOCAL ORDINANCES, RULES, REGULATIONS; PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY AND REGULATION OF SITE DESIGNATION, IMPROVEMENT, AND USE.] To assure the paramount and controlling effect of the provisions herein this section over other state agencies,; regional, county, and local governments,; and special purpose government districts, the issuance of a certificate of site compatibility permit or transmission line construction route permit and subsequent purchase and use of such site or route locations

for large electric power generating plant and high voltage transmission line purposes shall be is the sole site approval required to be obtained by the utility. Such certificate or The permit shall supersede supersedes and preempt all preempts any zoning, building, or land use rules, regulations, or ordinances promulgated by any regional, county, local, and special purpose government.

Sec. 2. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.62, is amended to read:

116C.62 [IMPROVEMENT OF SITES AND ROUTES.]

Utilities which that have acquired a site or route in accordance with sections 116C.51 to 116C.69 may proceed to construct or improve the site or route for the intended purposes at any time, subject to section 116C.61, subdivision 2,; provided that, if the construction and improvement commences more than has not commenced within four years after a certificate or permit for the site or route has been issued, then the utility must certify to the board that the site or route continues to meet the conditions upon which the certificate of site compatibility or transmission line construction permit was issued.

Sec. 3. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.64, is amended to read:

116C.64 [FAILURE TO ACT.]

If the board fails to act within the times specified in section 116C.57, the applicant or any affected utility person may seek an order of the district court requiring the board to designate or refuse to designate a site or route.

Sec. 4. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.645, is amended to read:

116C.645 [REVOCATION OR SUSPENSION.]

A site certificate permit or construction route permit may be revoked or suspended by the board after adequate notice of the alleged grounds for revocation or suspension and a full and fair hearing in which the affected utility has an opportunity to confront any witness and respond to any evidence against it and to present rebuttal or mitigating evidence upon a finding by the board of:

(1) any false statement knowingly made in the application or in accompanying statements or studies required of the applicant, if a true statement would have warranted a change in the board's findings;

(2) failure to comply with material conditions of the site certificate or construction permit, or failure to maintain health and safety standards; or

(3) any material violation of the provisions of sections 116C.51 to 116C.69, any rule promulgated pursuant thereto adopted under these sections, or any order of the board.

Sec. 5. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.65, is amended to read:

116C.65 [JUDICIAL REVIEW.]

Any utility applicant, party, or person aggrieved by the issuance of a certificate site or route permit or emergency certificate of site compatibility or transmission line construction permit from the board or a certification of continuing suitability filed by a utility with the board or by a final order in accordance with any rules promulgated adopted by the board, may appeal to the court of appeals in accordance with chapter 14. The appeal shall must be filed within 60 days after the publication in the State Register of notice of the issuance of the certificate or permit by the board or certification filed with the board or the filing of any final order by the board. 

Sec. 6. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.66, is amended to read:

116C.66 [RULES.]

(a) The board, in order to give effect to the purposes of sections 116C.51 to 116C.69, shall prior to July 1, 1978, may adopt rules consistent with sections 116C.51 to 116C.69, including promulgation adoption of site and route designation criteria,; the description of the information to be furnished by the utilities,; establishment of minimum guidelines for public participation in the development, revision, and enforcement of any rule, plan, or program established by the board,; procedures for the revocation or suspension of a construction permit or a certificate of site compatibility,; the procedure and timeliness for proposing alternative routes and sites,; and route exemption criteria and procedures.

No (b) A rule adopted by the board shall may not grant priority to state-owned wildlife management areas over agricultural lands in the designation of route-avoidance areas.

(c) The provisions of chapter 14 shall apply to the appeal of rules adopted by the board to the same extent as it applies to the review of rules adopted by any other agency of state government.

(d) The chief administrative law judge shall, prior to January 1, 1978, adopt procedural rules for public hearings relating to the site and route designation process and to the route exemption process. The rules shall must attempt to maximize citizen participation in these processes.

Sec. 7. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 116C.69, is amended to read:

116C.69 [BIENNIAL REPORT; APPLICATION FEES; APPROPRIATION; FUNDING.]

Subdivision 1. [BIENNIAL REPORT.] Before November 15 of each even-numbered year the board shall prepare and submit to the legislature a report of its operations, activities, findings, and recommendations concerning sections 116C.51 to 116C.69. The report shall also contain information on the board's biennial expenditures, its proposed budget for the following biennium, and the amounts paid in certificate and permit application fees pursuant to subdivisions 2 and 2a and in assessments pursuant to subdivision 3 this section. The proposed budget for the following biennium shall be is subject to legislative review.

Subd. 2. [SITE APPLICATION FEE.] Every applicant for a site certificate permit shall pay to the board a fee in an amount equal to $500 for each $1,000,000 of production plant investment in the proposed installation as defined in the Federal Power Commission Uniform System of Accounts. The board shall specify the time and manner of payment of the fee. If any single payment requested by the board is in excess of 25 percent of the total estimated fee, the board shall show that the excess is reasonably necessary. The applicant shall pay within 30 days of notification any additional fees reasonably necessary for completion of the site evaluation and designation process by the board. In no event shall The total fees required of the applicant under this subdivision must never exceed an amount equal to 0.001 of said the production plant investment (, which equals $1,000 for each $1,000,000). All money received pursuant to under this subdivision shall must be deposited in a special account. Money in the account is appropriated to the board to pay expenses incurred in processing applications for certificates site permits in accordance with sections 116C.51 to 116C.69 and in the event, if the expenses are less than the fee paid, to refund the excess to the applicant.

Subd. 2a. [ROUTE APPLICATION FEE.] Every applicant for a transmission line construction route permit shall pay to the board a base fee of $35,000 plus a fee in an amount equal to $1,000 per mile length of the longest proposed route. The board shall specify the time and manner of payment of the fee. If any single payment requested by the board is in excess of 25 percent of the total estimated fee, the board shall show that the excess is reasonably necessary. In the event If the actual cost of processing an application up to the board's final decision to designate a route exceeds the above this fee schedule, the board may assess the applicant any additional fees necessary to cover the actual costs, not to exceed an amount equal to $500 per mile length of the longest proposed route. All money received pursuant to under this subdivision shall must be deposited in a special account. Money in the account is

appropriated to the board to pay expenses incurred in processing applications for construction route permits in accordance with sections 116C.51 to 116C.69 and in the event, if the expenses are less than the fee paid, to refund the excess to the applicant.

Subd. 3. [FUNDING; ASSESSMENT.] (a) The board shall finance its base line studies, general environmental studies, development of criteria, inventory preparation, monitoring of conditions placed on site certificates and construction route permits, and all other work, other than specific site and route designation, from an assessment made quarterly, at least 30 days before the start of each quarter, by the board against all utilities with annual retail kilowatt-hour sales greater than 4,000,000 kilowatt-hours in the previous calendar year.

(b) Each share shall must be determined as follows:

(1) the ratio that the annual retail kilowatt-hour sales in the state of each utility bears to the annual total retail kilowatt-hour sales in the state of all these utilities, multiplied by 0.667,; plus

(2) the ratio that the annual gross revenue from retail kilowatt-hour sales in the state of each utility bears to the annual total gross revenues from retail kilowatt-hour sales in the state of all these utilities, multiplied by 0.333, as determined by the board.

(c) The assessment shall must be credited to the special revenue fund and shall be paid to the state treasury within 30 days after receipt of the bill, which shall constitute notice of said the assessment and its demand of payment thereof.

(d) The total amount which that may be assessed to the several utilities under the authority of this subdivision shall may not exceed the sum of the annual budget of the board for carrying out the purposes of this subdivision.

(e) The assessment for the second quarter of each fiscal year shall must be adjusted to compensate for the amount by which actual expenditures by the board for the preceding fiscal year were more or less than the estimated expenditures previously assessed.

Sec. 8. [INSTRUCTION TO REVISOR.]

(a) The revisor of statutes shall renumber Minnesota Statutes, section 116C.69, subdivision 1, as Minnesota Statutes, section 116C.681.

(b) The revisor of statutes shall change all references as appropriate from Minnesota Statutes, section 216B.241 to Minnesota Statutes, section 216B.2411, including references to appropriate subdivisions, if known, in this act and in Minnesota Statutes, chapters 216A, 216B, and 216C, and in the Minnesota Rules associated with those chapters.

Sec. 9. [EFFECTIVE DATE.]

This article is effective the day following final enactment.

ARTICLE 6

MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

Section 1. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 216A.03, subdivision 3a, is amended to read:

Subd. 3a. [POWERS AND DUTIES OF CHAIR.] The chair shall be is the principal executive officer of the commission and shall preside at meetings of the commission. The responsibilities of the chair shall organize include:

(1) organizing the work of the commission and may make; 

(2) making assignments to commission members, appoint committees and give as appropriate;

(3) appointing subcommittees;

(4) giving direction to the commission staff through the executive secretary subject to the approval of the commission.;

(5) supervising the work of the executive secretary; and

(6) in coordination with the executive secretary, participating in employment and termination decisions, including representing the commission in grievance proceedings; addressing employee complaints and grievances; developing and implementing the agency budget; testifying before legislative committees and working with legislators as requested; determining agency-wide training needs and initiatives; implementing computer technology updates; administering and implementing relations with the department of commerce, the office of the attorney general, and other agencies; and developing and implementing strategies for the commission to adapt to rapid changes in the industries the commission oversees.

Sec. 2. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 216B.095, is amended to read:

216B.095 [DISCONNECTION DURING COLD WEATHER.]

The commission shall amend its rules governing disconnection of residential utility customers who are unable to pay for utility service during cold weather to include the following:

(1) coverage of customers whose household income is less than 185 percent of the federal poverty level 50 percent of the state median income;

(2) a requirement that a customer who pays the utility at least ten percent of the customer's income or the full amount of the utility bill, whichever is less, in a cold weather month cannot be disconnected during that month;

(3) that the ten percent figure in clause (2) must be prorated between energy providers proportionate to each provider's share of the customer's total energy costs where the customer receives service from more than one provider;

(4) that a customer's household income does not include any amount received for energy assistance;

(5) (4) verification of income by the local energy assistance provider or the utility, unless the customer is automatically eligible for protection against disconnection as a recipient of any form of public assistance, including energy assistance, that uses income eligibility in an amount at or below the income eligibility in clause (1); and

(6) (5) a requirement that the customer receive, from the local energy assistance provider or other entity, budget counseling and referral referrals to energy assistance programs, weatherization, conservation, or other programs likely to reduce the customer's consumption of energy bills;

(6) a requirement that customers who have demonstrated an inability to pay on forms for such purposes provided by the utility, and who make reasonably timely payments to the utility under a payment plan that considers the financial resources of the household, cannot be disconnected from utility services from October 15 to April 15. A customer who is receiving energy assistance is deemed to have demonstrated an inability to pay.

For the purpose of clause (2), the "customer's income" means the actual monthly income of the customer except for a customer who is normally employed only on a seasonal basis and whose annual income is over 135 percent of the federal poverty level, in which case the customer's income is or the average monthly income of the customer computed on an annual calendar year basis, whichever is less, and does not include any amount received for energy assistance. 

Sec. 3. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 216B.097, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [APPLICATION; NOTICE TO RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMER.] (a) A municipal utility or a cooperative electric association must not disconnect the utility service of a residential customer during the period between October 15 and April 15 if the disconnection affects the primary heat source for the residential unit when the following conditions are met:

(1) the disconnection would occur during the period between October 15 and April 15;

(2) (1) the customer has declared inability to pay on forms provided by the utility. For the purpose of this clause, a customer that is receiving energy assistance is deemed to have demonstrated an inability to pay;

(3) (2) the household income of the customer is less than 185 percent of the federal poverty level, as documented by the customer to the utility; and 50 percent of the state median income;

(3) verification of income may be conducted by the local energy assistance provider or the utility, unless the customer is automatically eligible for protection against disconnection as a recipient of any form of public assistance, including energy assistance, that uses income eligibility in an amount at or below the income eligibility in clause (2);

(4) the customer's a customer whose account is current for the billing period immediately prior to October 15 or the customer has entered who, at any time, enters into a payment schedule that considers the financial resources of the household and is reasonably current with payments under the schedule; and

(5) the customer receives referrals to energy assistance programs, and weatherization, conservation, or other programs to reduce the customer's energy bills.

(b) A municipal utility or a cooperative electric association must, between August 15 and October 15 of each year, notify all residential customers of the provisions of this section.

Sec. 4. [216B.098] [CUSTOMER PROTECTIONS.]

Subdivision 1. [APPLICABILITY.] This section applies to residential customers of public utilities, municipal utilities, and cooperative electric associations.

Subd. 2. [BUDGET BILLING PLANS.] A utility shall offer a customer a budget billing plan for payment of charges for service, including adequate notice to customers prior to changing budget payment amounts. Municipal utilities having 3,000 or fewer customers are exempt from this requirement. Municipal utilities having more than 3,000 customers shall implement this requirement within two years of the effective date of this chapter.

Subd. 3. [PAYMENT AGREEMENTS.] A utility shall offer a payment agreement for the payment of arrears.

Subd. 4. [UNDERCHARGES.] A utility shall offer a payment agreement to customers who have been undercharged if no culpable conduct by the customer or resident of the customer's household caused the undercharge. The agreement must cover a period equal to the time over which the undercharge occurred. No interest or delinquency fee may be charged under this agreement.

Subd. 5. [MEDICALLY NECESSARY EQUIPMENT.] A utility shall reconnect or continue service to a customer's residence where a medical emergency exists or where medical equipment requiring electricity is necessary to sustain life is in use, provided that the utility receives from a medical doctor written certification, or initial certification by telephone and written certification within five business days, that failure to reconnect or continue service will impair or threaten the health or safety of a resident of the customer's household. The customer must enter into a payment agreement. 

Subd. 6. [COMMISSION AUTHORITY.] The commission, or staff designated by the commission, has the authority to order resolutions of disputes involving alleged violations of this chapter by a public utility or any other disputes involving public utilities coming within its jurisdiction.

Sec. 5. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 216B.16, subdivision 15, is amended to read:

Subd. 15. [LOW-INCOME RATE PROGRAMS; REPORT.] (a) The commission may consider ability to pay as a factor in setting utility rates and may establish programs for low-income residential ratepayers in order to ensure affordable, reliable, and continuous service to low-income utility customers. The commission shall order a pilot program for at least one utility. In ordering pilot programs, the commission shall consider the following:

(1) the potential for low-income programs to provide savings to the utility for all collection costs including but not limited to: costs of disconnecting and reconnecting residential ratepayers' service, all activities related to the utilities' attempt to collect past due bills, utility working capital costs, and any other administrative costs related to inability to pay programs and initiatives;

(2) the potential for leveraging federal low-income energy dollars to the state; and

(3) the impact of energy costs as a percentage of the total income of a low-income residential customer.

(b) In determining the structure of the pilot utility program, the commission shall:

(1) consult with advocates for and representatives of low-income utility customers, administrators of energy assistance and conservation programs, and utility representatives;

(2) coordinate eligibility for the program with the state and federal energy assistance program and low-income residential energy programs, including weatherization programs; and

(3) evaluate comprehensive low-income programs offered by utilities in other states.

(c) The commission shall implement at least one pilot project by January 1, 1995, and shall allow a utility required to implement a pilot project to recover the net costs of the project in the utility's rates.

(d) The commission, in conjunction with the commissioner of the department of public service and the commissioner of economic security, shall review low-income rate programs and shall report to the legislature by January 1, 1998. The report must include:

(1) the increase in federal energy assistance money leveraged by the state as a result of this program;

(2) the effect of the program on low-income customer's ability to pay energy costs;

(3) the effect of the program on utility customer bad debt and arrearages;

(4) the effect of the program on the costs and numbers of utility disconnections and reconnections and other costs incurred by the utility in association with inability to pay programs;

(5) the ability of the utility to recover the costs of the low-income program without a general rate change;

(6) how other ratepayers have been affected by this program;

(7) recommendations for continuing, eliminating, or expanding the low-income pilot program; and

(8) how general revenue funds may be utilized in conjunction with low-income programs. 

(b) The purpose of the low-income programs is to lower the percentage of income that low-income households devote to energy bills, to increase customer payments, and to lower utility costs associated with customer account collection activities. In ordering low-income programs, the commission may require utilities to file program evaluations, including the effect of the program on participant household energy burdens, the coordination of other available low-income bill payment and conservation resources, the effect of the program on service disconnections, and the effect of the program on customer payment behavior, utility collection costs, arrearages, and bad debt.

Sec. 6. [216B.79] [PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE.]

(a) The commission has the authority to ensure that public utilities are making adequate infrastructure investments and undertaking sufficient preventative maintenance with regard to generation, transmission, and distribution facilities.

(b) The commission may make appropriate adjustments in a utility's rates through an automatic adjustment of charges under section 216B.16, accelerated depreciation of capital costs, or other appropriate mechanisms, or make a recommendation to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to make an appropriate adjustment in a utility's allowed rate of return on those utilities' transmission facilities, to provide incentive and offset the costs of new energy infrastructure facility construction.

Sec. 7. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 216C.41, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5. [AMOUNT OF PAYMENT.] (a) An incentive payment is based on the number of kilowatt hours of electricity generated. The amount of the payment is 1.5 cents per kilowatt hour. For electricity generated by qualified wind energy conversion facilities, the incentive payment under this section is limited to no more than 100 megawatts of nameplate capacity. During any period in which qualifying claims for incentive payments exceed 100 megawatts of nameplate capacity, the payments must be made to producers in the order in which the production capacity was brought into production.

(b) Beginning January 1, 2002, the total size of a wind energy conversion system under this section must be determined according to this paragraph. Unless the systems are interconnected with different distribution systems, the nameplate capacity of one wind energy conversion system must be combined with the nameplate capacity of any other wind energy conversion system that is:

(1) located within five miles of the wind energy conversion system;

(2) constructed within the same calendar year as the wind energy conversion system; and

(3) under common ownership.

In the case of a dispute, the commissioner of commerce shall determine the total size of the system, and shall draw all reasonable inferences in favor of combining the systems.

(c) In making a determination under paragraph (b), the commissioner of commerce may determine that two wind energy conversion systems are under common ownership when the underlying ownership structure contains similar persons or entities, even if the ownership shares differ between the two systems. Wind energy conversion systems are not under common ownership solely because the same person or entity provided equity financing for the systems.

Sec. 8. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 216C.41, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 6. [OWNERSHIP; FINANCING; CURE.] (a) For the purposes of subdivision 1, paragraph (c), clause (2), a wind energy conversion facility qualifies if it is owned at least 51 percent by one or more of any combination of the entities listed in that clause. 

(b) A subsequent owner of a qualified facility may continue to receive the incentive payment for the duration of the original payment period if the subsequent owner qualifies for the incentive under subdivision 1.

(c) Nothing in this section may be construed to deny incentive payment to an otherwise qualified facility that has obtained debt or equity financing for construction or operation as long as the ownership requirements of subdivision 1 and this subdivision are met. If, during the incentive payment period for a qualified facility, the owner of the facility is in default of a lending agreement and the lender takes possession of and operates the facility and makes reasonable efforts to transfer ownership of the facility to an entity other than the lender, the lender may continue to receive the incentive payment for electricity generated and sold by the facility for a period not to exceed 18 months. A lender who takes possession of a facility shall notify the commissioner immediately on taking possession and, at least quarterly, document efforts to transfer ownership of the facility.

(d) If, during the incentive payment period, a qualified facility loses the right to receive the incentive because of changes in ownership, the facility may regain the right to receive the incentive upon cure of the ownership structure that resulted in the loss of eligibility and may reapply for the incentive, but in no case may the payment period be extended beyond the original ten-year limit.

(e) A subsequent or requalifying owner under paragraph (b) or (d) retains the facility's original priority order for incentive payments as long as the ownership structure requalifies within two years from the date the facility became unqualified or two years from the date a lender takes possession.

Sec. 9. [REPEALER.]

Minnesota Statutes 2000, sections 216B.241 and 216C.18 are repealed.

Sec. 10. [EFFECTIVE DATE.]

This article is effective the day following final enactment.

ARTICLE 7

SAFETY AND SERVICE STANDARDS

Section 1. [216B.81] [DEFINITIONS.]

Subdivision 1. [SCOPE.] The terms used in this article have the meanings given them in this section.

Subd. 2. [AVERAGE NUMBER OF CUSTOMERS SERVED.] "Average number of customers served" means the number of active, metered, customer accounts available in a utility's interruption-reporting database on the day that an interruption occurs.

Subd. 3. [CIRCUIT.] "Circuit" means a set of conductors serving customer loads that are capable of being separated from the serving substation automatically by a recloser, fuse, sectionalizing equipment, and other devices.

Subd. 4. [COMPONENT.] "Component" means a piece of equipment, a line, a section of line, or a group of items that is an entity for purposes of reporting, analyzing, and predicting interruptions.

Subd. 5. [CUSTOMER.] "Customer" means a contiguous electrical service location, regardless of the number of meters at the location.

Subd. 6. [CUSTOMER INTERRUPTION.] "Customer interruption" means the loss of service due to a forced outage for more than five minutes, for one or more customers, which is the result of one or more component failures. 

Subd. 7. [CUSTOMERS' INTERRUPTIONS CAUSED BY POWER RESTORATION PROCESS.] "Customers' interruptions caused by power restoration process" means when customers lose power as a result of the process of restoring power. The duration of these outages is included in the customer-minutes of interruption. Only the customers affected by the power restoration outages that were not affected by the original outage are added to the number of customer interruptions.

Subd. 8. [CUSTOMER-MINUTES OF INTERRUPTION.] "Customer-minutes of interruption" means the number of minutes of forced outage duration multiplied by the number of customers affected.

Subd. 9. [ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION LINE.] "Electric distribution line" means circuits operating at less than 40,000 volts.

Subd. 10. [FORCED OUTAGE.] "Forced outage" means an outage that cannot be deferred.

Subd. 11. [MAJOR CATASTROPHIC EVENTS.] "Major catastrophic events" means events that are beyond the utility's control that result in widespread system damages causing customer interruptions that affect at least ten percent of the customers in the system or in an operating area or that result in customers being without electric service for durations of at least 24 hours.

Subd. 12. [MAJOR STORM.] "Major storm" means a period of severe adverse weather resulting in widespread system damage causing customer interruptions that affect at least ten percent of the customers on the system or in an operating area or that result in customers being without electric service for durations of at least 24 hours.

Subd. 13. [MOMENTARY INTERRUPTION.] "Momentary interruption" means an interruption of electric service with a duration shorter than the time necessary to be classified as a customer interruption.

Subd. 14. [OPERATING AREA.] "Operating area" means a geographical subdivision of each electric utility's service territory that functions under the direction of a company office and may be used for reporting interruptions under this article. These areas may also be referred to as regions, divisions, or districts.

Subd. 15. [OUTAGE.] "Outage" means the failure of a power system component that results in one or more customer interruptions.

Subd. 16. [OUTAGE DURATION.] "Outage duration" means the one minute or greater period from the initiation of an interruption to a customer until service has been restored to that customer.

Subd. 17. [PARTIAL CIRCUIT OUTAGE CUSTOMER COUNT.] "Partial circuit outage customer count" means when only part of a circuit experiences an outage, the number of customers affected is estimated, unless an actual count is available. When power is partially restored, the number of customers restored is also estimated. Most utilities use estimates based on the portion of the circuit restored.

Subd. 18. [PLANNED OUTAGES.] "Planned outages" means those outages scheduled by the utility. These interruptions are sometimes necessary to connect new customers or perform maintenance activities safely. They must not be included in the calculation of reliability indexes.

Subd. 19. [RELIABILITY.] "Reliability" means the degree to which electric service is supplied without interruption.

Subd. 20. [RELIABILITY INDEXES.] "Reliability indexes" include the following performance indices for measuring frequency and duration of service interruptions:

(a) The system average interruption frequency index is the average number of interruptions per customer per year. It is determined by dividing the total annual number of customer interruptions by the average number of customers served during the year. 

(b) The system average interruption duration index is the average customer-minutes of interruption per customer. It is determined by dividing the annual sum of customer-minutes of interruption by the average number of customers served during the year.

(c) The customer average interruption duration index is the average customer-minutes of interruption per customer interruption. It approximates the average length of time required to complete service restoration. It is determined by dividing the annual sum of all customer-minutes of interruption durations by the annual number of customer interruptions.

Sec. 2. [216B.82] [RECORDING SERVICE INTERRUPTION INDEXES.]

Subdivision 1. [SYSTEM INTERRUPTION DATA.] Each electric utility with 10,000 retail customers or more shall keep a record of the necessary interruption data and calculate the system average interruption frequency index, system average interruption duration index, and customer average interruption duration index of its system, and of each operating area, if applicable, at the end of each calendar year for the previous 12-month period.

Subd. 2. [CIRCUIT INTERRUPTION DATA.] Unless a utility uses alternative criteria as provided in section 216B.83, subdivision 2, paragraph (d), each utility also shall, at the end of each calendar year, calculate the system average interruption frequency index, system average interruption duration index, and customer average interruption duration index for each circuit in each operating area. Each circuit in each operating area must then be listed in order separately according to its system average interruption frequency index, its system average interruption duration index, and its customer average interruption duration index, beginning with the highest values for each index.

Sec. 3. [216B.83] [ANNUAL REPORT.]

Subdivision 1. [SUMMARY REPORT GENERALLY.] Beginning on July 1, 2002, and by July 1 of every year thereafter, each electric utility with 10,000 retail customers or more shall file with the commission, or in the case of a cooperative electric association or municipal utility, with the local governing body of the utility or association a report summarizing various measures of reliability. The form of the report is subject to review and comment by the commission staff. Names and numbers used to identify operating areas or individual circuits may conform to the utility's practice, but should allow ready identification of the geographic location or the general area served. Electronic recording and reporting of the required data and information is encouraged.

Subd. 2. [INFORMATION REQUIRED.] (a) The report must include at least the information described in paragraphs (b) to (h).

(b) The report must provide an overall assessment of the reliability of performance including the aggregate system average interruption frequency index, system average interruption duration index, and customer average interruption duration index by system and each operating area, as applicable.

(c) The report must include a list of the worst performing circuits based on system average interruption frequency index, system average interruption duration index, and customer average interruption duration index for the calendar year. This portion of the report must describe the actions that the utility has taken or will take to remedy the conditions responsible for each listed circuit's unacceptable performance. The actions taken or planned should be briefly described. Target dates for corrective actions must be included in the report. When the utility determines that actions on its part are unwarranted, its report shall provide adequate justification for that conclusion.

(d) Utilities that use or prefer alternative criteria for measuring individual circuit performance to those described in paragraphs (b) and (c) and that are required by this section to submit an annual report of reliability data, shall submit their alternative listing of circuits along with the criteria used to rank circuit performance.

(e) Information must be included with respect to any report on the accomplishment of the improvements proposed in prior reports for which completion has not been previously reported. 

(f) The report must describe any new reliability or power quality programs and changes that are made to existing programs.

(g) It must include a status report of any long-range electric distribution plans.

(h) In addition to the information included in paragraph (b), each utility that has the technical capability and administrative resources shall report the following additional service quality information:

(1) route miles of electric distribution line reconstructed during the year, with separate totals for single- and three-phase circuits provided;

(2) total route miles of electric distribution line in service at year's end, segregated by voltage level;

(3) monthly average speed of answer for telephone calls received regarding emergencies;

(4) the average number of calendar days a utility takes to install and energize service to a customer site once it is ready to receive service, with a separate average calculated for each month, including all extensions energized during the calendar month;

(5) the total number of written and telephone customer complaints received in the areas of safety, outages, power quality, customer property damage, and other areas, by month filed;

(6) total annual tree-trimming budget and actual expenses; and

(7) total annual projected and actual miles of tree-trimmed distribution line.

Sec. 4. [216B.84] [INITIAL HISTORICAL RELIABILITY PERFORMANCE REPORT.]

(a) Each electric utility with 10,000 retail customers or more that has historically used measures of system, operating area, and circuit reliability performance shall initially submit annual system average interruption frequency index, system average interruption duration index, and customer average interruption duration index data for the previous three years. Those utilities that have this data for some time period less than three years shall submit data for those years it is available.

(b) Those utilities whose historical reliability performance data is similar or related to those measures listed in paragraph (a), but differs due to how the parameters are defined or calculated, shall submit the data it has and explain any material differences from the prescribed indices. After the effective date of this section, utilities shall modify their reliability performance measures to conform to those specified in sections 216B.81 to 216B.87 for purposes of consistent reporting of comparable data in the future.

Sec. 5. [216B.85] [INTERRUPTIONS OF SERVICE; RECORDS; NOTICE.]

Subdivision 1. [RECORDS.] (a) Each utility shall keep records of all interruptions to service affecting the entire distribution system of any single community or an important division of a community, and include in the records each interruption's location, date and time, and duration; the approximate number of customers affected; the circuit or circuits involved; and, when known, the cause of each interruption.

(b) When complete distribution systems or portions of communities have service furnished from unattended stations, these records must be kept to the extent practicable. The record of unattended stations shall show interruptions that require attention to restore service, with the estimated time of interruption. Breaker or fuse operations affecting service should also be indicated even though duration of interruption may not be known. 

Subd. 2. [NOTICE OF INTERRUPTIONS OF BULK POWER SUPPLY FACILITIES.] (a) Each utility owning or operating bulk power supply facilities shall record any event described in clauses (1) to (5) involving any generating unit or electric facilities operating at a nominal voltage of 69 kilovolts or higher, and shall make such records available to the commission semiannually or upon request of the commission:

(1) any interruption or loss of service to customers for 15 minutes or more to aggregate firm loads in excess of 200,000 kilowatts;

(2) any interruption or loss of service to customers for 15 minutes or more to aggregate firm loads exceeding the lesser of 100,000 kilowatts or one-half of the current annual system peak load and not required to be recorded under clause (1);

(3) any decision to issue a public request for reduction in use of electricity;

(4) an action to reduce firm customer loads by reduction of voltage for reasons of maintaining adequacy of bulk electric power supply; and

(5) any action to reduce firm customer loads by manual switching, operation of automatic load-shedding devices, or any other means for reasons of maintaining adequacy of bulk electric power supply.

Subd. 3. [NOTICE OF OTHER INTERRUPTIONS OF POWER.] Each utility shall record service interruptions of 60 minutes or more to an entire distribution substation bus or entire feeder serving either 500 or more customers or entire cities or villages having 200 or more customers.

Subd. 4. [INFORMATION REQUIRED.] The written records required in subdivisions 2 and 3 must include the date, time, duration, general location, approximate number of customers affected, identification of circuit or circuits involved, and, when known, the cause of the interruption. When extensive interruptions occur, as from a storm, a narrative record including the extent of the interruptions and system damage, estimated number of customers affected, and a list of entire communities interrupted may be recorded in lieu of records of individual interruptions. When customer service interruptions are necessary, the utility shall make reasonable efforts to notify affected customers in advance.

Sec. 6. [216B.86] [CUSTOMERS' COMPLAINTS.]

Each utility shall keep a record of complaints received by it from its customers in regard to safety or service, and the operation of its system, with appropriate response times designated for critical safety and monetary loss situations and shall investigate if appropriate. The record must show the name and address of the complainant, the date and nature of the complaint, the priority assigned to the assistance, and its disposition and the time and date of its disposition.

Sec. 7. [216B.87] [STANDARDS FOR DISTRIBUTION UTILITIES.]

(a) The commission and each cooperative electric association and municipal utility shall, only as resources allow, adopt standards for safety, reliability, and service quality for distribution utilities. Standards for cooperative electric associations and municipal utilities should be as consistent as possible with the commission standards.

(b) Reliability standards must be based on the system average interruption frequency index, system average interruption duration index, and customer average interruption duration index measurement indices. Service quality standards must specify, if technically and administratively feasible:

(1) average call center response time;

(2) customer disconnection rate; 

(3) meter-reading frequency;

(4) complaint resolution response time; and

(5) service extension request response time.

(c) Minimum performance standards developed under this section must treat similarly situated distribution systems similarly and recognize differing characteristics of system design and hardware.

(d) Electric distribution utilities shall comply with all applicable governmental and industry standards required for the safety, design, construction, and operation of electric distribution facilities, including section 326.243.

Sec. 8. [COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS.]

The commissioner of commerce shall provide an analysis of the costs and benefits to consumers and utilities of the provisions of sections 1 to 7, including any recommended changes to those provisions, to the chairs of the house of representatives and senate policy and finance committees with jurisdiction over electric utility issues by February 1, 2002.

Sec. 9. [EFFECTIVE DATE.]

Sections 1 to 7 are effective July 1, 2003. Section 8 is effective the day following final enactment."

Delete the title and insert:

"A bill for an act relating to energy; enacting the Minnesota Energy Security and Reliability Act; requiring an energy security blueprint and a state transmission plan; establishing position of reliability administrator; providing for essential energy infrastructure; modifying provisions for siting, routing, and determining the need for large electric power facilities; regulating conservation expenditures by energy utilities and eliminating state pre-approval of conservation plans by public utilities; encouraging regulatory flexibility in supplying and obtaining energy; regulating interconnection of distributed utility resources; providing for safety and service standards from distribution utilities; clarifying the state cold weather disconnection requirements; authorizing municipal utilities, municipal power agencies, cooperative utilities, and investor-owned utilities to form joint ventures to provide utility services; eliminating the requirement for individual utility resource plans; requiring reports; making technical, conforming, and clarifying changes; amending Minnesota Statutes 2000, sections 116.07, subdivision 4a; 116C.52, subdivision 10; 116C.53, subdivisions 2, 3; 116C.57, subdivisions 1, 2, 4, by adding subdivisions; 116C.58; 116C.59, subdivisions 1, 4; 116C.60; 116C.61, subdivision 1; 116C.62; 116C.64; 116C.645; 116C.65; 116C.66; 116C.69; 216A.03, subdivision 3a; 216B.095; 216B.097, subdivision 1; 216B.16, subdivisions 7, 15; 216B.2421, subdivision 2, by adding a subdivision; 216B.2422, subdivision 2; 216B.243, subdivisions 2, 3, 4, by adding a subdivision; 216C.051, subdivision 9; 216C.41, subdivision 5, by adding a subdivision; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapters 116C; 216B; 216C; 452; repealing Minnesota Statutes 2000, sections 116C.55; 116C.57, subdivisions 3, 5, 5a; 116C.67; 216B.241; 216C.18."

With the recommendation that when so amended the bill pass and be re-referred to the Committee on Ways and Means.

The report was adopted.

Pursuant to Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 5, S. F. No. 722 was re-referred to the Committee on Rules and Legislative Administration.

H. F. Nos. 281 and 1807 were read for the second time.

S. F. Nos. 1495 and 1721 were read for the second time.

The following House File was introduced:

Dawkins introduced:

H. F. No. 2522, A bill for an act relating to agriculture; requiring the commissioner of agriculture to stop payments to ethanol plants found by cities to be nuisances; amending Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 41A.09, by adding a subdivision.

The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Agriculture Policy.

The following messages were received from the Senate:

Mr. Speaker:

I hereby announce that the Senate accedes to the request of the House for the appointment of a Conference Committee on the amendments adopted by the Senate to the following House File:

H. F. No. 2486, A bill for an act relating to state government; appropriating money for economic development, housing, and certain agencies of state government; establishing and modifying programs; transferring certain duties and funds; establishing an account; consolidating housing programs; regulating activities and practices; modifying fees; making conforming changes; requiring reports; revising certain provisions involving state regulation of private health coverage; transferring certain regulatory control; establishing requirements for managed care plans; codifying reorganization order No. 181; transferring the remaining duties of the commissioner of public service to the commissioner of commerce; instructing the revisor to change certain terms; modifying provisions of the Minnesota Electrical Act; providing for power limited technician licensing; amending Minnesota Statutes 2000, sections 3C.12, subdivision 2; 13.679; 15.01; 15.06, subdivision 1; 15A.0815, subdivision 2; 16B.32, subdivision 2; 16B.335, subdivision 4; 16B.56, subdivision 1; 16B.76, subdivision 1; 17.86, subdivision 3; 18.024, subdivision 1; 43A.08, subdivision 1a; 45.012; 62A.021, subdivision 1; 62A.041, subdivisions 1, 2; 62A.042; 62A.043, subdivision 1; 62A.105; 62A.14; 62A.149, subdivision 1; 62A.15, subdivision 1; 62A.152, subdivision 1; 62A.153; 62A.20; 62A.21; 62A.615; 62A.616; 62A.65, subdivision 5; 62D.02, subdivisions 3, 8; 62D.12, subdivisions 1, 1a; 62D.15,

subdivision 1; 62D.24; 62E.05, subdivision 2; 62E.11, subdivision 13; 62E.14, subdivision 6; 62E.16; 62J.041, subdivision 4; 62J.701; 62J.74, subdivisions 1, 2; 62J.75; 62L.02, subdivision 8; 62L.05, subdivision 12; 62L.08, subdivisions 10, 11; 62L.09, subdivision 3; 62L.10, subdivision 4; 62L.11, subdivision 2; 62L.12, subdivision 2; 62M.11; 62M.16; 62N.02, subdivision 4; 62N.26; 62Q.01, subdivision 2; 62Q.03, subdivision 5a; 62Q.07; 62Q.106; 62Q.22, subdivisions 2, 6, 7; 62Q.32; 62Q.33, subdivision 2; 62Q.49, subdivision 2; 62Q.51, subdivision 3; 62Q.525, subdivision 3; 62Q.68, subdivision 1; 62Q.69, subdivisions 2, 3; 62Q.71; 62Q.72; 62Q.73, subdivisions 3, 4, 5, 6; 62R.04, subdivision 5; 62R.06, subdivision 1; 62T.01, subdivision 4; 103F.325, subdivisions 2, 3; 115A.15, subdivision 5; 116J.8731, subdivision 1; 116L.03, subdivisions 2, 3, 5; 116O.06, subdivision 2; 123B.65, subdivisions 1, 3, 5; 138.664, by adding a subdivision; 161.45, subdivision 1; 168.61, subdivision 1; 169.073; 174.03, subdivision 7; 181.30; 184.29; 184.30, subdivision 1; 184.38, subdivisions 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 17, 18, 20; 184.41; 216A.01; 216A.035; 216A.036; 216A.05, subdivision 1; 216A.07, subdivision 1; 216A.08; 216A.085, subdivision 3; 216B.02, subdivisions 1, 7, 8; 216B.16, subdivisions 1, 2, 6b, 15; 216B.162, subdivisions 7, 11; 216B.1675, subdivision 9; 216B.241, subdivisions 1a, 1b, 2b; 216C.01, subdivisions 1, 2, 3; 216C.051, subdivision 6; 216C.06, by adding a subdivision; 216C.37, subdivision 1; 216C.40, subdivision 4; 216C.41; 237.02; 237.075, subdivisions 2, 9; 237.082; 237.21; 237.30; 237.462, subdivision 6; 237.51, subdivisions 1, 5, 5a; 237.52, subdivisions 2, 4, 5; 237.54, subdivision 2; 237.55; 237.59, subdivision 2; 237.768; 239.01; 239.10; 256B.692, subdivisions 2, 7; 257.34, subdivision 1; 268.022, subdivisions 1, 2; 325E.11; 325E.115, subdivision 2; 326.01, subdivisions 5, 6g, by adding subdivisions; 326.241, subdivision 1; 326.242, subdivisions 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 6a, 6b, 6c, 7, 8, 10, 12, by adding a subdivision; 326.2421, subdivisions 2, 9; 326.243; 326.244, subdivisions 1a, 2, 5, 6; 462A.01; 462A.03, subdivisions 1, 6, 10, by adding a subdivision; 462A.04, subdivision 6; 462A.05, subdivisions 14, 14a, 16, 22, 26; 462A.06, subdivisions 1, 4; 462A.07, subdivisions 10, 12; 462A.073, subdivision 1; 462A.15; 462A.17, subdivision 3; 462A.20, subdivision 3; 462A.201, subdivisions 2, 6; 462A.204, subdivision 3; 462A.205, subdivisions 4, 4a; 462A.209; 462A.2091, subdivision 3; 462A.2093, subdivision 1; 462A.2097; 462A.21, subdivisions 5, 10, by adding subdivisions; 462A.222, subdivision 1a; 462A.24; 462A.33, subdivisions 1, 2, 3, 5, by adding a subdivision; 484.50; Laws 1993, chapter 301, section 1, subdivision 4, as amended; Laws 1995, chapter 248, article 12, section 2, as amended; article 13, section 2, subdivision 2, as amended; Laws 2000, chapter 488, article 8, section 2, subdivision 6; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapters 116L; 122A; 462A; proposing coding for new law as Minnesota Statutes, chapter 62U; repealing Minnesota Statutes 2000, sections 62A.049; 62A.21, subdivision 3; 62C.14, subdivisions 5, 5a, 5b, 14; 62C.142; 62D.09, subdivision 3; 62D.101; 62D.105; 62D.12, subdivision 19; 62D.123, subdivisions 2, 3, 4; 62D.124; 62Q.095, subdivisions 1, 2, 3, 4, 6; 62Q.45; 138A.01; 138A.02; 138A.03; 138A.04; 138A.05; 138A.06; 184.22, subdivisions 2, 3, 4, 5; 184.37, subdivision 2; 216A.06; 237.69, subdivision 3; 268.96; 268.975; 268.976; 268.9771; 268.978; 268.9781; 268.9782; 268.9783; 268.979; 268.98; 326.01, subdivision 6d; 326.2421, subdivisions 3, 4, 6, 8; 462A.201, subdivision 4; 462A.207; 462A.209, subdivision 4; 462A.21, subdivision 17; 462A.221, subdivision 4; 462A.30, subdivision 2; 462A.33, subdivisions 4, 6, 7; Minnesota Rules, parts 3800.3500, subpart 12; 4685.0801, subpart 7; 4685.1010; 4685.1300; 4685.1900; 4685.2000; 4685.2200, subpart 3; 4685.1105; 4685.1110; 4685.1115; 4685.1120; 4685.1125; 4685.1130.

The Senate has appointed as such committee:

Senators Anderson; Cohen; Johnson, Dave; Lesewski and Orfield.

Said House File is herewith returned to the House.

Patrick E. Flahaven, Secretary of the Senate

Mr. Speaker:

I hereby announce that the Senate refuses to concur in the House amendments to the following Senate File:

S. F. No. 103, A bill for an act relating to civil actions; providing civil remedies for receiving motor fuel from a motor fuel retail business without paying for it; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 332. 

The Senate respectfully requests that a Conference Committee be appointed thereon. The Senate has appointed as such committee:

Senators Larson, Marty and Scheid.

Said Senate File is herewith transmitted to the House with the request that the House appoint a like committee.

Patrick E. Flahaven, Secretary of the Senate

Nornes moved that the House accede to the request of the Senate and that the Speaker appoint a Conference Committee of 3 members of the House to meet with a like committee appointed by the Senate on the disagreeing votes of the two houses on S. F. No. 103. The motion prevailed.

The Speaker called Abrams to the Chair.

Mr. Speaker:

I hereby announce that the Senate refuses to concur in the House amendments to the following Senate File:

S. F. No. 1394, A bill for an act relating to human services; changing child placement provisions; modifying provisions governing child maltreatment investigations; classifying data and authorizing data sharing; amending Minnesota Statutes 2000, sections 13.319, by adding a subdivision; 13.32, subdivision 3; 13.43, by adding a subdivision; 13.46, subdivision 2; 119B.02, by adding a subdivision; 256.01, subdivision 2; 256.045, subdivision 3b; 260C.007, subdivisions 4, 14, and by adding subdivisions; 260C.141, subdivision 2; 260C.151, subdivision 6; 260C.178, subdivisions 1 and 7; 260C.193, subdivision 3; 260C.201, subdivisions 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 10, 11, and by adding a subdivision; 260C.205; 260C.212, subdivisions 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, and 9; 260C.215, subdivision 6; 260C.301, subdivisions 1, 4, and 8; 260C.312; 260C.317, subdivision 3; and 260C.325, subdivision 4; 626.556, subdivisions 2, 3, 4, 7, 10, 10b, 10d, 10e, 10i, 10j, 11; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapter 256F; repealing Minnesota Statutes 2000, sections 260C.325, subdivision 2; and 626.5565.

The Senate respectfully requests that a Conference Committee be appointed thereon. The Senate has appointed as such committee:

Senators Kiscaden, Ranum and Knutson.

Said Senate File is herewith transmitted to the House with the request that the House appoint a like committee.

Patrick E. Flahaven, Secretary of the Senate

Tingelstad moved that the House accede to the request of the Senate and that the Speaker appoint a Conference Committee of 3 members of the House to meet with a like committee appointed by the Senate on the disagreeing votes of the two houses on S. F. No. 1394. The motion prevailed.

Mr. Speaker:

I hereby announce the passage by the Senate of the following House File, herewith returned, as amended by the Senate, in which amendments the concurrence of the House is respectfully requested:

H. F. No. 208, A resolution urging authorization of funding for modernization of waterways.

Patrick E. Flahaven, Secretary of the Senate

Workman moved that the House concur in the Senate amendments to H. F. No. 208 and that the bill be repassed as amended by the Senate.

A roll call was requested and properly seconded.

On the motion of Workman and on the demand of 10 members, a call of the House was ordered. The following members answered to their names:

Abeler	Dorn	Hilty	Larson	Otremba	Stang
Abrams	Eastlund	Holberg	Leighton	Ozment	Swapinski
Anderson, B.	Entenza	Holsten	Lenczewski	Paulsen	Swenson
Anderson, I.	Erhardt	Howes	Leppik	Paymar	Thompson
Bernardy	Erickson	Huntley	Lieder	Pelowski	Tingelstad
Biernat	Evans	Jacobson	Lindner	Penas	Tuma
Bishop	Finseth	Jaros	Lipman	Peterson	Vandeveer
Boudreau	Folliard	Jennings	Luther	Pugh	Wagenius
Bradley	Fuller	Johnson, J.	Mahoney	Rhodes	Walz
Buesgens	Gerlach	Johnson, R.	Marko	Rukavina	Wasiluk
Carlson	Gleason	Johnson, S.	Marquart	Ruth	Wenzel
Cassell	Goodno	Juhnke	McElroy	Schumacher	Westerberg
Clark, J.	Goodwin	Kahn	McGuire	Seagren	Wilkin
Daggett	Gray	Kalis	Milbert	Seifert	Winter
Davids	Greiling	Kelliher	Molnau	Sertich	Wolf
Davnie	Gunther	Kielkucki	Mullery	Skoe	Workman
Dawkins	Haas	Knoblach	Ness	Skoglund	Spk. Sviggum
Dehler	Hackbarth	Koskinen	Nornes	Slawik
Dempsey	Harder	Krinkie	Olson	Smith
Dibble	Hausman	Kubly	Opatz	Solberg
Dorman	Hilstrom	Kuisle	Osskopp	Stanek

Seifert moved that further proceedings of the roll call be suspended and that the Sergeant at Arms be instructed to bring in the absentees. The motion prevailed and it was so ordered.

Workman moved that the call of the House be suspended. The motion prevailed and it was so ordered.

The question recurred on the Workman motion and the roll was called. There were 98 yeas and 31 nays as follows:

Those who voted in the affirmative were:

Abeler	Eastlund	Johnson, J.	Marko	Peterson	Sykora
Journal of the House - 51st Day - Thursday, May 10, 2001 - Top of Page 4042
Abrams	Erhardt	Johnson, R.	Marquart	Pugh	Thompson
Anderson, B.	Erickson	Juhnke	McElroy	Rhodes	Tingelstad
Anderson, I.	Finseth	Kalis	Milbert	Rifenberg	Tuma
Bakk	Fuller	Kielkucki	Molnau	Rukavina	Vandeveer
Bishop	Gerlach	Knoblach	Mulder	Ruth	Walz
Boudreau	Goodno	Krinkie	Ness	Schumacher	Wenzel
Bradley	Gunther	Kubly	Nornes	Seagren	Westerberg
Buesgens	Haas	Kuisle	Olson	Seifert	Westrom
Cassell	Hackbarth	Larson	Opatz	Sertich	Wilkin
Clark, J.	Harder	Leighton	Osskopp	Skoe	Winter
Daggett	Holberg	Lenczewski	Otremba	Slawik	Workman
Davids	Holsten	Leppik	Ozment	Smith	Spk. Sviggum
Dehler	Howes	Lieder	Paulsen	Solberg
Dempsey	Huntley	Lindner	Pawlenty	Stanek
Dorman	Jacobson	Lipman	Pelowski	Stang
Dorn	Jennings	Mahoney	Penas	Swenson

Those who voted in the negative were:

Bernardy	Entenza	Greiling	Kelliher	Murphy	Wolf
Biernat	Evans	Hausman	Koskinen	Paymar
Carlson	Folliard	Hilstrom	Luther	Skoglund
Davnie	Gleason	Hilty	Mariani	Swapinski
Dawkins	Goodwin	Johnson, S.	McGuire	Wagenius
Dibble	Gray	Kahn	Mullery	Wasiluk

The motion prevailed.

H. F. No. 208, A resolution urging authorization of funding for improvement and rehabilitation of waterways.

The bill was read for the third time, as amended by the Senate, and placed upon its repassage.

The question was taken on the repassage of the bill and the roll was called. There were 97 yeas and 32 nays as follows:

Those who voted in the affirmative were:

Abeler	Erickson	Johnson, R.	Marquart	Pugh	Thompson
Anderson, B.	Finseth	Juhnke	McElroy	Rhodes	Tingelstad
Anderson, I.	Fuller	Kalis	Milbert	Rifenberg	Tuma
Bakk	Gerlach	Kielkucki	Molnau	Rukavina	Vandeveer
Bishop	Goodno	Knoblach	Mulder	Ruth	Walz
Boudreau	Gunther	Krinkie	Ness	Schumacher	Wenzel
Bradley	Haas	Kubly	Nornes	Seagren	Westerberg
Buesgens	Hackbarth	Kuisle	Olson	Seifert	Westrom
Cassell	Harder	Larson	Opatz	Sertich	Wilkin
Clark, J.	Holberg	Leighton	Osskopp	Skoe	Winter
Daggett	Holsten	Leppik	Otremba	Slawik	Workman
Davids	Howes	Lieder	Ozment	Smith	Spk. Sviggum
Dehler	Huntley	Lindner	Paulsen	Solberg
Dempsey	Jacobson	Lipman	Pawlenty	Stanek
Dorman	Jaros	Mahoney	Pelowski	Stang
Dorn	Jennings	Mares	Penas	Swenson
Eastlund	Johnson, J.	Marko	Peterson	Sykora

Those who voted in the negative were:

Bernardy	Entenza	Greiling	Kelliher	Mullery	Wasiluk
Biernat	Evans	Hausman	Koskinen	Murphy	Wolf
Carlson	Folliard	Hilstrom	Lenczewski	Paymar
Davnie	Gleason	Hilty	Luther	Skoglund
Dawkins	Goodwin	Johnson, S.	Mariani	Swapinski
Dibble	Gray	Kahn	McGuire	Wagenius

The bill was repassed, as amended by the Senate, and its title agreed to.

Mr. Speaker:

I hereby announce the passage by the Senate of the following House File, herewith returned, as amended by the Senate, in which amendments the concurrence of the House is respectfully requested:

H. F. No. 1266, A bill for an act relating to agriculture; providing funding for the department of agriculture, the board of animal health, the Minnesota horticultural society, and the agricultural utilization research institute; changing certain fees and charges; creating, extending, and expanding certain programs; establishing, changing, and clarifying terms and procedures; refunding certain fines; providing a civil penalty; appropriating money; amending Minnesota Statutes 2000, sections 17.102, subdivision 3; 17.1025; 17.117; 17.85; 18B.065, subdivision 5; 18E.04, subdivisions 2, 4, 5; 28A.04, subdivision 1; 32.394, subdivision 8e; 38.02, subdivision 1; 41A.09, subdivision 2a; 103B.3369, subdivision 5; 116.07, subdivision 7; 116O.09, subdivision 1a; 169.871, subdivision 1; 169.872, subdivision 1; proposing coding for new law in Minnesota Statutes, chapters 17; 41A; repealing Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 31.11, subdivision 2.

Patrick E. Flahaven, Secretary of the Senate

Ness moved that the House refuse to concur in the Senate amendments to H. F. No. 1266, that the Speaker appoint a Conference Committee of 5 members of the House, and that the House requests that a like committee be appointed by the Senate to confer on the disagreeing votes of the two houses. The motion prevailed.

Mr. Speaker:

I hereby announce the passage by the Senate of the following Senate File, herewith transmitted:

S. F. No. 2142.

Patrice Dworak, First Assistant Secretary of the Senate

S. F. No. 2142, A bill for an act relating to highways; allowing judicial review of public purpose and necessity for taking property for county highway or town road; amending Minnesota Statutes 2000, sections 163.12, subdivision 2, by adding subdivisions; 164.07, subdivisions 1, 2, 7, 10.

The bill was read for the first time.

Clark, J., moved that S. F. No. 2142 and H. F. No. 2203, now on the General Register, be referred to the Chief Clerk for comparison. The motion prevailed. 

Pawlenty from the Committee on Rules and Legislative Administration, pursuant to rule 1.21, designated the following bill to be placed on the Calendar for the Day, immediately preceding the remaining bills on the Calendar for the Day, for Thursday, May 10, 2001:

S. F. No. 2005.

S. F. No. 2005, A bill for an act relating to highways; designating the State Trooper Theodore "Ted" Foss Memorial Highway; amending Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 161.14, by adding a subdivision.

The bill was read for the third time and placed upon its final passage.

The question was taken on the passage of the bill and the roll was called. There were 131 yeas and 0 nays as follows:

Those who voted in the affirmative were:

Abeler	Dorn	Holberg	Leppik	Osthoff	Solberg
Abrams	Eastlund	Holsten	Lieder	Otremba	Stanek
Anderson, B.	Entenza	Howes	Lindner	Ozment	Stang
Anderson, I.	Erhardt	Huntley	Lipman	Paulsen	Swapinski
Bakk	Erickson	Jacobson	Luther	Pawlenty	Swenson
Bernardy	Evans	Jaros	Mahoney	Paymar	Sykora
Biernat	Finseth	Jennings	Mares	Pelowski	Thompson
Bishop	Folliard	Johnson, J.	Mariani	Penas	Tingelstad
Boudreau	Fuller	Johnson, R.	Marko	Peterson	Tuma
Bradley	Gerlach	Johnson, S.	Marquart	Pugh	Vandeveer
Buesgens	Gleason	Juhnke	McElroy	Rhodes	Wagenius
Carlson	Goodno	Kalis	McGuire	Rifenberg	Walz
Cassell	Goodwin	Kelliher	Milbert	Rukavina	Wasiluk
Clark, J.	Gray	Kielkucki	Molnau	Ruth	Wenzel
Daggett	Greiling	Knoblach	Mulder	Schumacher	Westerberg
Davids	Gunther	Koskinen	Mullery	Seagren	Westrom
Davnie	Haas	Krinkie	Murphy	Seifert	Wilkin
Dawkins	Hackbarth	Kubly	Ness	Sertich	Winter
Dehler	Harder	Kuisle	Nornes	Skoe	Wolf
Dempsey	Hausman	Larson	Olson	Skoglund	Workman
Dibble	Hilstrom	Leighton	Opatz	Slawik	Spk. Sviggum
Dorman	Hilty	Lenczewski	Osskopp	Smith

The bill was passed and its title agreed to.

Seifert moved that the remaining bills on the Calendar for the Day be continued. The motion prevailed.

Pursuant to rule 1.22, Bishop requested immediate consideration of S. F. No. 2361.

S. F. No. 2361 was reported to the House.

Goodno moved to amend S. F. No. 2361 as follows:

Delete everything after the enacting clause and insert the following language of H. F. No. 1832, the third engrossment:

"ARTICLE 1

HEALTH DEPARTMENT

Section 1. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103I.101, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6. [FEES FOR VARIANCES.] The commissioner shall charge a nonrefundable application fee of $120 $150 to cover the administrative cost of processing a request for a variance or modification of rules adopted by the commissioner under this chapter.

Sec. 2. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103I.112, is amended to read:

103I.112 [FEE EXEMPTIONS FOR STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT.]

(a) The commissioner of health may not charge fees required under this chapter to a federal agency, state agency, or a local unit of government or to a subcontractor performing work for the state agency or local unit of government.

(b) "Local unit of government" means a statutory or home rule charter city, town, county, or soil and water conservation district, watershed district, an organization formed for the joint exercise of powers under section 471.59, a board of health or community health board, or other special purpose district or authority with local jurisdiction in water and related land resources management.

Sec. 3. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103I.208, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [WELL NOTIFICATION FEE.] The well notification fee to be paid by a property owner is:

(1) for a new well, $120 $150, which includes the state core function fee;

(2) for a well sealing, $20 $30 for each well, which includes the state core function fee, except that for monitoring wells constructed on a single property, having depths within a 25 foot range, and sealed within 48 hours of start of construction, a single fee of $20 $30; and

(3) for construction of a dewatering well, $120 $150, which includes the state core function fee, for each well except a dewatering project comprising five or more wells shall be assessed a single fee of $600 $750 for the wells recorded on the notification.

Sec. 4. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103I.208, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [PERMIT FEE.] The permit fee to be paid by a property owner is:

(1) for a well that is not in use under a maintenance permit, $100 $125 annually; 

(2) for construction of a monitoring well, $120 $150, which includes the state core function fee;

(3) for a monitoring well that is unsealed under a maintenance permit, $100 $125 annually;

(4) for monitoring wells used as a leak detection device at a single motor fuel retail outlet, a single petroleum bulk storage site excluding tank farms, or a single agricultural chemical facility site, the construction permit fee is $120 $150, which includes the state core function fee, per site regardless of the number of wells constructed on the site, and the annual fee for a maintenance permit for unsealed monitoring wells is $100 $125 per site regardless of the number of monitoring wells located on site;

(5) for a groundwater thermal exchange device, in addition to the notification fee for wells, $120 $150, which includes the state core function fee;

(6) for a vertical heat exchanger, $120 $150;

(7) for a dewatering well that is unsealed under a maintenance permit, $100 $125 annually for each well, except a dewatering project comprising more than five wells shall be issued a single permit for $500 $625 annually for wells recorded on the permit; and

(8) for excavating holes for the purpose of installing elevator shafts, $120 $150 for each hole.

Sec. 5. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103I.235, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [DISCLOSURE OF WELLS TO BUYER.] (a) Before signing an agreement to sell or transfer real property, the seller must disclose in writing to the buyer information about the status and location of all known wells on the property, by delivering to the buyer either a statement by the seller that the seller does not know of any wells on the property, or a disclosure statement indicating the legal description and county, and a map drawn from available information showing the location of each well to the extent practicable. In the disclosure statement, the seller must indicate, for each well, whether the well is in use, not in use, or sealed.

(b) At the time of closing of the sale, the disclosure statement information, name and mailing address of the buyer, and the quartile, section, township, and range in which each well is located must be provided on a well disclosure certificate signed by the seller or a person authorized to act on behalf of the seller.

(c) A well disclosure certificate need not be provided if the seller does not know of any wells on the property and the deed or other instrument of conveyance contains the statement: "The Seller certifies that the Seller does not know of any wells on the described real property."

(d) If a deed is given pursuant to a contract for deed, the well disclosure certificate required by this subdivision shall be signed by the buyer or a person authorized to act on behalf of the buyer. If the buyer knows of no wells on the property, a well disclosure certificate is not required if the following statement appears on the deed followed by the signature of the grantee or, if there is more than one grantee, the signature of at least one of the grantees: "The Grantee certifies that the Grantee does not know of any wells on the described real property." The statement and signature of the grantee may be on the front or back of the deed or on an attached sheet and an acknowledgment of the statement by the grantee is not required for the deed to be recordable.

(e) This subdivision does not apply to the sale, exchange, or transfer of real property:

(1) that consists solely of a sale or transfer of severed mineral interests; or

(2) that consists of an individual condominium unit as described in chapters 515 and 515B. 

(f) For an area owned in common under chapter 515 or 515B the association or other responsible person must report to the commissioner by July 1, 1992, the location and status of all wells in the common area. The association or other responsible person must notify the commissioner within 30 days of any change in the reported status of wells.

(g) For real property sold by the state under section 92.67, the lessee at the time of the sale is responsible for compliance with this subdivision.

(h) If the seller fails to provide a required well disclosure certificate, the buyer, or a person authorized to act on behalf of the buyer, may sign a well disclosure certificate based on the information provided on the disclosure statement required by this section or based on other available information.

(i) A county recorder or registrar of titles may not record a deed or other instrument of conveyance dated after October 31, 1990, for which a certificate of value is required under section 272.115, or any deed or other instrument of conveyance dated after October 31, 1990, from a governmental body exempt from the payment of state deed tax, unless the deed or other instrument of conveyance contains the statement made in accordance with paragraph (c) or (d) or is accompanied by the well disclosure certificate containing all the information required by paragraph (b) or (d). The county recorder or registrar of titles must not accept a certificate unless it contains all the required information. The county recorder or registrar of titles shall note on each deed or other instrument of conveyance accompanied by a well disclosure certificate that the well disclosure certificate was received. The notation must include the statement "No wells on property" if the disclosure certificate states there are no wells on the property. The well disclosure certificate shall not be filed or recorded in the records maintained by the county recorder or registrar of titles. After noting "No wells on property" on the deed or other instrument of conveyance, the county recorder or registrar of titles shall destroy or return to the buyer the well disclosure certificate. The county recorder or registrar of titles shall collect from the buyer or the person seeking to record a deed or other instrument of conveyance, a fee of $20 $30 for receipt of a completed well disclosure certificate. By the tenth day of each month, the county recorder or registrar of titles shall transmit the well disclosure certificates to the commissioner of health. By the tenth day after the end of each calendar quarter, the county recorder or registrar of titles shall transmit to the commissioner of health $17.50 $27.50 of the fee for each well disclosure certificate received during the quarter. The commissioner shall maintain the well disclosure certificate for at least six years. The commissioner may store the certificate as an electronic image. A copy of that image shall be as valid as the original.

(j) No new well disclosure certificate is required under this subdivision if the buyer or seller, or a person authorized to act on behalf of the buyer or seller, certifies on the deed or other instrument of conveyance that the status and number of wells on the property have not changed since the last previously filed well disclosure certificate. The following statement, if followed by the signature of the person making the statement, is sufficient to comply with the certification requirement of this paragraph: "I am familiar with the property described in this instrument and I certify that the status and number of wells on the described real property have not changed since the last previously filed well disclosure certificate." The certification and signature may be on the front or back of the deed or on an attached sheet and an acknowledgment of the statement is not required for the deed or other instrument of conveyance to be recordable.

(k) The commissioner in consultation with county recorders shall prescribe the form for a well disclosure certificate and provide well disclosure certificate forms to county recorders and registrars of titles and other interested persons.

(l) Failure to comply with a requirement of this subdivision does not impair:

(1) the validity of a deed or other instrument of conveyance as between the parties to the deed or instrument or as to any other person who otherwise would be bound by the deed or instrument; or

(2) the record, as notice, of any deed or other instrument of conveyance accepted for filing or recording contrary to the provisions of this subdivision. 

Sec. 6. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103I.525, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [APPLICATION FEE.] The application fee for a well contractor's license is $50 $75. The commissioner may not act on an application until the application fee is paid.

Sec. 7. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103I.525, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6. [LICENSE FEE.] The fee for a well contractor's license is $250, except the fee for an individual well contractor's license is $50 $75.

Sec. 8. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103I.525, subdivision 8, is amended to read:

Subd. 8. [RENEWAL.] (a) A licensee must file an application and a renewal application fee to renew the license by the date stated in the license.

(b) The renewal application fee shall be set by the commissioner under section 16A.1285 for a well contractor's license is $250.

(c) The renewal application must include information that the applicant has met continuing education requirements established by the commissioner by rule.

(d) At the time of the renewal, the commissioner must have on file all properly completed well reports, well sealing reports, reports of excavations to construct elevator shafts, well permits, and well notifications for work conducted by the licensee since the last license renewal.

Sec. 9. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103I.525, subdivision 9, is amended to read:

Subd. 9. [INCOMPLETE OR LATE RENEWAL.] If a licensee fails to submit all information required for renewal in subdivision 8 or submits the application and information after the required renewal date:

(1) the licensee must include an additional a late fee set by the commissioner of $75; and

(2) the licensee may not conduct activities authorized by the well contractor's license until the renewal application, renewal application fee, late fee, and all other information required in subdivision 8 are submitted.

Sec. 10. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103I.531, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [APPLICATION FEE.] The application fee for a limited well/boring contractor's license is $50 $75. The commissioner may not act on an application until the application fee is paid.

Sec. 11. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103I.531, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6. [LICENSE FEE.] The fee for a limited well/boring contractor's license is $50 $75.

Sec. 12. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103I.531, subdivision 8, is amended to read:

Subd. 8. [RENEWAL.] (a) A person must file an application and a renewal application fee to renew the limited well/boring contractor's license by the date stated in the license.

(b) The renewal application fee shall be set by the commissioner under section 16A.1285 for a limited well/boring contractor's license is $75.

(c) The renewal application must include information that the applicant has met continuing education requirements established by the commissioner by rule. 

(d) At the time of the renewal, the commissioner must have on file all properly completed well sealing reports, well permits, vertical heat exchanger permits, and well notifications for work conducted by the licensee since the last license renewal.

Sec. 13. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103I.531, subdivision 9, is amended to read:

Subd. 9. [INCOMPLETE OR LATE RENEWAL.] If a licensee fails to submit all information required for renewal in subdivision 8 or submits the application and information after the required renewal date:

(1) the licensee must include an additional a late fee set by the commissioner of $75; and

(2) the licensee may not conduct activities authorized by the limited well/boring contractor's license until the renewal application, renewal application fee, and late fee, and all other information required in subdivision 8 are submitted.

Sec. 14. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103I.535, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [APPLICATION FEE.] The application fee for an elevator shaft contractor's license is $50 $75. The commissioner may not act on an application until the application fee is paid.

Sec. 15. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103I.535, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6. [LICENSE FEE.] The fee for an elevator shaft contractor's license is $50 $75.

Sec. 16. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103I.535, subdivision 8, is amended to read:

Subd. 8. [RENEWAL.] (a) A person must file an application and a renewal application fee to renew the license by the date stated in the license.

(b) The renewal application fee shall be set by the commissioner under section 16A.1285 for an elevator shaft contractor's license is $75.

(c) The renewal application must include information that the applicant has met continuing education requirements established by the commissioner by rule.

(d) At the time of renewal, the commissioner must have on file all reports and permits for elevator shaft work conducted by the licensee since the last license renewal.

Sec. 17. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103I.535, subdivision 9, is amended to read:

Subd. 9. [INCOMPLETE OR LATE RENEWAL.] If a licensee fails to submit all information required for renewal in subdivision 8 or submits the application and information after the required renewal date:

(1) the licensee must include an additional a late fee set by the commissioner of $75; and

(2) the licensee may not conduct activities authorized by the elevator shaft contractor's license until the renewal application, renewal application fee, and late fee, and all other information required in subdivision 8 are submitted.

Sec. 18. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103I.541, subdivision 2b, is amended to read:

Subd. 2b. [APPLICATION FEE.] The application fee for a monitoring well contractor registration is $50 $75. The commissioner may not act on an application until the application fee is paid. 

Sec. 19. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103I.541, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4. [RENEWAL.] (a) A person must file an application and a renewal application fee to renew the registration by the date stated in the registration.

(b) The renewal application fee shall be set by the commissioner under section 16A.1285 for a monitoring well contractor's registration is $75.

(c) The renewal application must include information that the applicant has met continuing education requirements established by the commissioner by rule.

(d) At the time of the renewal, the commissioner must have on file all well reports, well sealing reports, well permits, and notifications for work conducted by the registered person since the last registration renewal.

Sec. 20. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103I.541, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5. [INCOMPLETE OR LATE RENEWAL.] If a registered person submits a renewal application after the required renewal date:

(1) the registered person must include an additional a late fee set by the commissioner of $75; and

(2) the registered person may not conduct activities authorized by the monitoring well contractor's registration until the renewal application, renewal application fee, late fee, and all other information required in subdivision 4 are submitted.

Sec. 21. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 103I.545, is amended to read:

103I.545 [REGISTRATION OF DRILLING MACHINES REQUIRED.]

Subdivision 1. [DRILLING MACHINE.] (a) A person may not use a drilling machine such as a cable tool, rotary tool, hollow rod tool, or auger for a drilling activity requiring a license or registration under this chapter unless the drilling machine is registered with the commissioner.

(b) A person must apply for the registration on forms prescribed by the commissioner and submit a $50 $75 registration fee.

(c) A registration is valid for one year.

Subd. 2. [PUMP HOIST.] (a) A person may not use a machine such as a pump hoist for an activity requiring a license or registration under this chapter to repair wells or borings, seal wells or borings, or install pumps unless the machine is registered with the commissioner.

(b) A person must apply for the registration on forms prescribed by the commissioner and submit a $50 $75 registration fee.

(c) A registration is valid for one year.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective July 1, 2002.

Sec. 22. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 121A.15, subdivision 6, is amended to read:

Subd. 6. [SUSPENSION OF IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENT; MODIFICATION TO SCHEDULE.] (a) The commissioner of health, on finding that an immunization required pursuant to this section is not necessary to protect the public's health, may suspend for one year the requirement that children receive that immunization. 

(b) During portions of the year in which the legislature is not meeting in regular or special session, the commissioner of health may modify the immunization requirements of this section. A modification made under this paragraph must be part of the current immunization recommendations of each of the following organizations: the United States Public Health Service's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, the American Academy of Family Physicians, and the American Academy of Pediatrics. The commissioner shall modify the immunization requirements through rulemaking using the expedited process in section 14.389. A rule adopted under this paragraph shall be in effect until the adjournment of the next regular legislative session held after the rule is adopted. The commissioner shall report to the legislature on any rules adopted under this paragraph during the previous calendar year. Such reports are due by January 15 of the year following the calendar year in which the rule is adopted, except that if a rule is adopted in January, a report on that rule is due by February 15 of that year.

Sec. 23. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 135A.14, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 7. [MODIFICATIONS TO SCHEDULE.] During portions of the year in which the legislature is not meeting in regular or special session, the commissioner of health may modify the immunization requirements of this section. A modification made under this subdivision must be part of the current immunization recommendations of each of the following organizations: the United States Public Health Service's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, the American Academy of Family Physicians, and the American Academy of Pediatrics. The commissioner shall modify the immunization requirements through rulemaking using the expedited process in section 14.389. A rule adopted under this subdivision shall be in effect until the adjournment of the next regular legislative session held after the rule is adopted. The commissioner shall report to the legislature on any rules adopted under this subdivision during the previous calendar year. Such reports are due by January 15 of the year following the calendar year in which the rule is adopted, except that if a rule is adopted in January, a report on that rule is due by February 15 of that year.

Sec. 24. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 144.1202, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4. [AGREEMENT; CONDITIONS OF IMPLEMENTATION.] (a) An agreement entered into before August 2, 2002 2003, must remain in effect until terminated under the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, United States Code, title 42, section 2021, paragraph (j). The governor may not enter into an initial agreement with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission after August 1, 2002 2003. If an agreement is not entered into by August 1, 2002 2003, any rules adopted under this section are repealed effective August 1, 2002 2003.

(b) An agreement authorized under subdivision 1 must be approved by law before it may be implemented.

Sec. 25. [144.1205] [RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL; SOURCE AND SPECIAL NUCLEAR MATERIAL; FEES; INSPECTION.]

Subdivision 1. [APPLICATION AND LICENSE RENEWAL FEE.] When a license is required for radioactive material or source or special nuclear material by a rule adopted under section 144.1202, subdivision 2, an application fee according to subdivision 4 must be paid upon initial application for a license. The licensee must renew the license 60 days before the expiration date of the license by paying a license renewal fee equal to the application fee under subdivision 4. The expiration date of a license is the date set by the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission before transfer of the licensing program under section 144.1202 and thereafter as specified by rule of the commissioner of health.

Subd. 2. [ANNUAL FEE.] A licensee must pay an annual fee at least 60 days before the anniversary date of the issuance of the license. The annual fee is an amount equal to 80 percent of the application fee under subdivision 4, rounded to the nearest whole dollar.

Subd. 3. [FEE CATEGORIES; INCORPORATION OF FEDERAL LICENSING CATEGORIES.] (a) Fee categories under this section are equivalent to the licensing categories used by the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission under Code of Federal Regulations, title 10, parts 30 to 36, 39, 40, 70, 71, and 150, except as provided in paragraph (b). 

(b) The category of "Academic, small" is the type of license required for the use of radioactive materials in a teaching institution. Radioactive materials are limited to ten radionuclides not to exceed a total activity amount of one curie.

Subd. 4. [APPLICATION FEE.] A licensee must pay an application fee as follows:

Radioactive material, Application U.S. Nuclear Regulatory

source and fee Commission licensing

special material category as reference

Type A broadscope $20,000 Medical institution type A

Type B broadscope $15,000 Research and development

type B

Type C broadscope $10,000 Academic type C

Medical use $4,000 Medical

Medical institution

Medical private practice

Mobile nuclear

medical laboratory $4,000 Mobile medical laboratory

Medical special use

sealed sources $6,000 Teletherapy

High dose rate remote

afterloaders

Stereotactic

radiosurgery devices

In vitro testing $2,300 In vitro testing

laboratories

Measuring gauge,

sealed sources $2,000 Fixed gauges

Portable gauges

Analytical instruments

Measuring systems - other

Gas chromatographs $1,200 Gas chromatographs

Manufacturing and

distribution $14,700 Manufacturing and

distribution - other

Distribution only $8,800 Distribution of

radioactive material

for commercial use only

Other services $1,500 Other services

Nuclear medicine

pharmacy $4,100 Nuclear pharmacy

Waste disposal $9,400 Waste disposal service

prepackage

Waste disposal service

processing/repackage

Waste storage only $7,000 To receive and store

radioactive material waste

Industrial

radiography $8,400 Industrial radiography

fixed location

Industrial radiography

portable/temporary sites

Irradiator -

self-shielded $4,100 Irradiators self-shielded

less than 10,000 curies 

Irradiator -

less than 10,000 Ci $7,500 Irradiators less than

10,000 curies

Irradiator -

more than 10,000 Ci $11,500 Irradiators greater than

10,000 curies

Research and

development,

no distribution $4,100 Research and development

Radioactive material

possession only $1,000 By-product possession only

Source material $1,000 Source material shielding

Special nuclear

material, less than

200 grams $1,000 Special nuclear material

plutonium-neutron sources

less than 200 grams

Pacemaker

manufacturing $1,000 Pacemaker by-product

and/or special nuclear

material - medical

institution

General license

distribution $2,100 General license

distribution

General license

distribution, exempt $1,500 General license

distribution -

certain exempt items

Academic, small $1,000 Possession limit of ten

radionuclides, not to

exceed a total of one curie

of activity

Veterinary $2,000 Veterinary use

Well logging $5,000 Well logging

Subd. 5. [PENALTY FOR LATE PAYMENT.] An annual fee or a license renewal fee submitted to the commissioner after the due date specified by rule must be accompanied by an additional amount equal to 25 percent of the fee due.

Subd. 6. [INSPECTIONS.] The commissioner of health shall make periodic safety inspections of the radioactive material and source and special nuclear material of a licensee. The commissioner shall prescribe the frequency of safety inspections by rule.

Subd. 7. [RECOVERY OF REINSPECTION COST.] If the commissioner finds serious violations of public health standards during an inspection under subdivision 6, the licensee must pay all costs associated with subsequent reinspection of the source. The costs shall be the actual costs incurred by the commissioner and include, but are not limited to, labor, transportation, per diem, materials, legal fees, testing, and monitoring costs.

Subd. 8. [RECIPROCITY FEE.] A licensee submitting an application for reciprocal recognition of a materials license issued by another agreement state or the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission for a period of 180 days or less during a calendar year must pay one-half of the application fee specified under subdivision 4. For a period of 181 days or more, the licensee must pay the entire application fee under subdivision 4. 

Subd. 9. [FEES FOR LICENSE AMENDMENTS.] A licensee must pay a fee to amend a license as follows:

(1) to amend a license requiring no license review including, but not limited to, facility name change or removal of a previously authorized user, no fee;

(2) to amend a license requiring review including, but not limited to, addition of isotopes, procedure changes, new authorized users, or a new radiation safety officer, $200; and

(3) to amend a license requiring review and a site visit including, but not limited to, facility move or addition of processes, $400.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective July 1, 2002.

Sec. 26. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 144.122, is amended to read:

144.122 [LICENSE, PERMIT, AND SURVEY FEES.]

(a) The state commissioner of health, by rule, may prescribe reasonable procedures and fees for filing with the commissioner as prescribed by statute and for the issuance of original and renewal permits, licenses, registrations, and certifications issued under authority of the commissioner. The expiration dates of the various licenses, permits, registrations, and certifications as prescribed by the rules shall be plainly marked thereon. Fees may include application and examination fees and a penalty fee for renewal applications submitted after the expiration date of the previously issued permit, license, registration, and certification. The commissioner may also prescribe, by rule, reduced fees for permits, licenses, registrations, and certifications when the application therefor is submitted during the last three months of the permit, license, registration, or certification period. Fees proposed to be prescribed in the rules shall be first approved by the department of finance. All fees proposed to be prescribed in rules shall be reasonable. The fees shall be in an amount so that the total fees collected by the commissioner will, where practical, approximate the cost to the commissioner in administering the program. All fees collected shall be deposited in the state treasury and credited to the state government special revenue fund unless otherwise specifically appropriated by law for specific purposes.

(b) The commissioner may charge a fee for voluntary certification of medical laboratories and environmental laboratories, and for environmental and medical laboratory services provided by the department, without complying with paragraph (a) or chapter 14. Fees charged for environment and medical laboratory services provided by the department must be approximately equal to the costs of providing the services.

(c) The commissioner may develop a schedule of fees for diagnostic evaluations conducted at clinics held by the services for children with handicaps program. All receipts generated by the program are annually appropriated to the commissioner for use in the maternal and child health program.

(d) The commissioner, for fiscal years 1996 and beyond, shall set license fees for hospitals and nursing homes that are not boarding care homes at the following levels:

Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare

Organizations (JCAHO hospitals) $1,017

$7,055

Non-JCAHO hospitals $762 plus $34 per bed

$4,680 plus $234 per bed

Nursing home $78 plus $19 per bed

$183 plus $91 per bed 

For fiscal years 1996 and beyond, The commissioner shall set license fees for outpatient surgical centers, boarding care homes, and supervised living facilities at the following levels:

Outpatient surgical centers $517

$1,512

Boarding care homes $78 plus $19 per bed

$183 plus $91 per bed

Supervised living facilities $78 plus $19 per bed

$183 plus $91 per bed.

(e) Unless prohibited by federal law, the commissioner of health shall charge applicants the following fees to cover the cost of any initial certification surveys required to determine a provider's eligibility to participate in the Medicare or Medicaid program:

Prospective payment surveys for $ 900

hospitals

Swing bed surveys for nursing homes $1,200

Psychiatric hospitals $1,400

Rural health facilities $1,100

Portable X-ray providers $ 500

Home health agencies $1,800

Outpatient therapy agencies $ 800

End stage renal dialysis providers $2,100

Independent therapists $ 800

Comprehensive rehabilitation $1,200

outpatient facilities

Hospice providers $1,700

Ambulatory surgical providers $1,800

Hospitals $4,200

Other provider categories or Actual surveyor costs:

additional resurveys required average surveyor cost x

to complete initial certification number of hours for the

survey process.

These fees shall be submitted at the time of the application for federal certification and shall not be refunded. All fees collected after the date that the imposition of fees is not prohibited by federal law shall be deposited in the state treasury and credited to the state government special revenue fund.

Sec. 27. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 144.148, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [PROGRAM.] (a) The commissioner of health shall award rural hospital capital improvement grants to eligible rural hospitals. Except as provided in paragraph (b), A grant shall not exceed $300,000 per hospital. Prior to the receipt of any grant, the hospital must certify to the commissioner that at least one-quarter of the grant amount, which may include in-kind services, is available for the same purposes from nonstate resources.

(b) A grant shall not exceed $1,500,000 per eligible rural hospital that also satisfies the following criteria:

(1) is the only hospital in a county;

(2) has 25 or fewer licensed hospital beds with a net hospital operating margin not greater than an average of two percent over the three fiscal years prior to application; 

(3) is located in a medically underserved community (MUC) or a health professional shortage area (HPSA);

(4) is located near a migrant worker employment site and regularly treats significant numbers of migrant workers and their families; and

(5) has not previously received a grant under this section prior to July 1, 1999.

Sec. 28. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 144.226, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4. [VITAL RECORDS SURCHARGE.] In addition to any fee prescribed under subdivision 1, there is a nonrefundable surcharge of $3 $2 for each certified and noncertified birth or death record, and for a certification that the record cannot be found. The local or state registrar shall forward this amount to the state treasurer to be deposited into the state government special revenue fund. This surcharge shall not be charged under those circumstances in which no fee for a birth or death record is permitted under subdivision 1, paragraph (a). This surcharge requirement expires June 30, 2002.

Sec. 29. [144.585] [HOSPITAL CHARITY CARE AID.]

Subdivision 1. [PURPOSE.] The purpose of charity care aid is to help offset excess charity care burdens at Minnesota acute care, short-term hospitals.

Subd. 2. [DEFINITIONS.] (a) For purposes of this section, the terms in this subdivision have the meanings given to them.

(b) "Charity care" is the dollar amount of charity care adjustments as determined under subdivision 3.

(c) "Cost-to-charge ratio" means a hospital's total operating expenses over the sum of gross patient revenue and other operating revenue, as reported to the commissioner of health under rules adopted under sections 144.695 to 144.703. The commissioner shall use the most recently available data to calculate the cost-to-charge ratio.

Subd. 3. [CHARITY CARE REPORTING.] (a) For a hospital to report amounts as charity care adjustments, the hospital:

(1) must generate and record a charge;

(2) have a policy on the provision of charity care and must communicate the policy to the public;

(3) have made a reasonable effort to identify a third party payer, encourage the patient to enroll in public programs, and should, to the extent possible, aid the patient in the enrollment process; and

(4) ensure that the patient meets the charity care criteria of this subdivision, which must be consistent with statewide income standards set out in paragraph (c).

(b) In determining whether to classify care as charity care, the hospital must consider the following:

(1) charity care may include services which the provider is obligated to render independently of the ability to collect;

(2) charity care may include care provided to low-income patients who meet the charity care income standards under paragraph (c) and have partial coverage, but are unable to pay the remainder of their medical bills. This does not apply to that portion of the bill which has been determined to be the patient's responsibility after a partial charity care classification; 

(3) charity care may include care provided to low-income patients who may qualify for a public health insurance program and meet the statewide eligibility criteria for charity care, but who do not complete the application process for public insurance despite the facility's best efforts;

(4) charity care may include care to individuals whose eligibility for charity care was determined through third party services employed by the hospital for information gathering purposes only;

(5) charity care may not include contractual allowances, which is the difference between gross charges and payments received under contractual arrangements with insurance companies and payers;

(6) charity care may not include bad debt;

(7) charity care may not include what may be perceived as underpayments for operating public programs;

(8) charity care may not include cases which are paid through a charitable contribution through a third party or facility-related foundation;

(9) charity care may not include unreimbursed costs of basic or clinical research and of professional education and training;

(10) charity care may not include professional courtesy discounts;

(11) charity care may not include community service or outreach activities; and

(12) charity care may not include services for patients against whom collection actions where taken which result in a credit report.

(c) The hospital must use the income standards in this paragraph for determining charity care eligibility for reporting purposes. The hospital does not need to make a patient asset determination in order to apply charity care income standards.

(1) Care to a patient with a family income at or below 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Guideline (FPG) may be reported as full charity care or free care.

(2) The hospital's share of discounted charges for care to a patient with family income below 275 percent of the FPG qualifies for classification as charity care. The following sliding fee schedules apply:

income as charges paid corresponding

% of FPG by patient charity care

151-200% 20% 80%

201-225% 40% 60%

226-250% 60% 40%

251-275% 80% 20%

(3) Care to a patient is considered medical hardship when qualified medical expenses, as defined for the purposes of federal income tax deductibility, exceeds 30 percent of family income. Qualified medical expenses may be counted as charity care in the amount that exceeds 30 percent of family income. This clause applies even if the patient's family income exceeds the charity care income standards in clauses (1) and (2).

Subd. 4. [APPLICATION.] To be eligible for funds under this section, hospitals must submit an application to the commissioner of health by the deadline established by the commissioner. Applications must meet the criteria as established by the commissioner, but must contain:

(1) the dollar amount of charity care in the previous year, as defined in subdivision 3, paragraphs (b) and (c); 

(2) a list with the most common diagnoses for which charity care is provided; and

(3) descriptive aggregate statistics of the characteristics of patients who receive charity care.

Subd. 5. [ALLOCATION OF FUNDS.] A hospital's share of the available charity care aid is equal to that hospital's share of charity care relative to the total charity care provided by applicants.

Sec. 30. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 144.98, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3. [FEES.] (a) An application for certification under subdivision 1 must be accompanied by the biennial fee specified in this subdivision. The fees are for:

(1) nonrefundable base certification fee, $500 $1,200; and

(2) test category certification fees:

Test Category Certification Fee

Clean water program bacteriology $200 $600

Safe drinking water program bacteriology $600

Clean water program inorganic chemistry,

fewer than four constituents $100 $600

Safe drinking water program inorganic chemistry,

four or more constituents$300 $600

Clean water program chemistry metals,

fewer than four constituents $200 $800

Safe drinking water program chemistry metals,

four or more constituents$500 $800

Resource conservation and recovery program

chemistry metals $800

Clean water program volatile organic compounds $600 $1,200

Safe drinking water program

volatile organic compounds $1,200

Resource conservation and recovery program

volatile organic compounds $1,200

Underground storage tank program

volatile organic compounds $1,200

Clean water program other organic compounds $600 $1,200

Safe drinking water program other organic compounds $1,200

Resource conservation and recovery program

other organic compounds $1,200

(b) The total biennial certification fee is the base fee plus the applicable test category fees. The biennial certification fee for a contract laboratory is 1.5 times the total certification fee.

(c) Laboratories located outside of this state that require an on-site survey will be assessed an additional $1,200 $2,500 fee.

(d) Fees must be set so that the total fees support the laboratory certification program. Direct costs of the certification service include program administration, inspections, the agency's general support costs, and attorney general costs attributable to the fee function. 

(e) A change fee shall be assessed if a laboratory requests additional analytes or methods at any time other than when applying for or renewing its certification. The change fee is equal to the test category certification fee for the analyte.

(f) A variance fee shall be assessed if a laboratory requests and is granted a variance from a rule adopted under this section. The variance fee is $500 per variance.

(g) Refunds or credits shall not be made for analytes or methods requested but not approved.

(h) Certification of a laboratory shall not be awarded until all fees are paid.

Sec. 31. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 144A.44, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [STATEMENT OF RIGHTS.] A person who receives home care services has these rights:

(1) the right to receive written information about rights in advance of receiving care or during the initial evaluation visit before the initiation of treatment, including what to do if rights are violated;

(2) the right to receive care and services according to a suitable and up-to-date plan, and subject to accepted medical or nursing standards, to take an active part in creating and changing the plan and evaluating care and services;

(3) the right to be told in advance of receiving care about the services that will be provided, the disciplines that will furnish care, the frequency of visits proposed to be furnished, other choices that are available, and the consequences of these choices including the consequences of refusing these services;

(4) the right to be told in advance of any change in the plan of care and to take an active part in any change;

(5) the right to refuse services or treatment;

(6) the right to know, in advance, any limits to the services available from a provider, and the provider's grounds for a termination of services;

(7) the right to know in advance of receiving care whether the services are covered by health insurance, medical assistance, or other health programs, the charges for services that will not be covered by Medicare, and the charges that the individual may have to pay;

(8) the right to know what the charges are for services, no matter who will be paying the bill;

(9) the right to know that there may be other services available in the community, including other home care services and providers, and to know where to go for information about these services;

(10) the right to choose freely among available providers and to change providers after services have begun, within the limits of health insurance, medical assistance, or other health programs;

(11) the right to have personal, financial, and medical information kept private, and to be advised of the provider's policies and procedures regarding disclosure of such information;

(12) the right to be allowed access to records and written information from records in accordance with section 144.335;

(13) the right to be served by people who are properly trained and competent to perform their duties;

(14) the right to be treated with courtesy and respect, and to have the patient's property treated with respect; 

(15) the right to be free from physical and verbal abuse;

(16) the right to reasonable, advance notice of changes in services or charges, including at least ten days' advance notice of the termination of a service by a provider, except in cases where:

(i) the recipient of services engages in conduct that alters the conditions of employment as specified in the employment contract between the home care provider and the individual providing home care services, or creates an abusive or unsafe work environment for the individual providing home care services; or

(ii) an emergency for the informal caregiver or a significant change in the recipient's condition has resulted in service needs that exceed the current service provider agreement and that cannot be safely met by the home care provider;

(17) the right to a coordinated transfer when there will be a change in the provider of services;

(18) the right to voice grievances regarding treatment or care that is, or fails to be, furnished, or regarding the lack of courtesy or respect to the patient or the patient's property;

(19) the right to know how to contact an individual associated with the provider who is responsible for handling problems and to have the provider investigate and attempt to resolve the grievance or complaint;

(20) the right to know the name and address of the state or county agency to contact for additional information or assistance; and

(21) the right to assert these rights personally, or have them asserted by the patient's family or guardian when the patient has been judged incompetent, without retaliation.

Sec. 32. [145.4241] [DEFINITIONS.]

Subdivision 1. [APPLICABILITY.] As used in sections 145.4241 to 145.4246, the following terms have the meaning given them.

Subd. 2. [ABORTION.] "Abortion" means the use or prescription of any instrument, medicine, drug, or any other substance or device to intentionally terminate the pregnancy of a female known to be pregnant, with an intention other than to increase the probability of a live birth, to preserve the life or health of the child after live birth, or to remove a dead fetus.

Subd. 3. [ATTEMPT TO PERFORM AN ABORTION.] "Attempt to perform an abortion" means an act, or an omission of a statutorily required act, that, under the circumstances as the actor believes them to be, constitutes a substantial step in a course of conduct planned to culminate in the performance of an abortion in Minnesota in violation of sections 145.4241 to 145.4246.

Subd. 4. [MEDICAL EMERGENCY.] "Medical emergency" means any condition that, on the basis of the physician's good faith clinical judgment, complicates the medical condition of a pregnant female to the extent that:

(1) an immediate abortion of her pregnancy is necessary to avert her death; or

(2) a 24-hour delay in performing an abortion creates a serious risk of substantial and irreversible impairment of a major bodily function.

Subd. 5. [PHYSICIAN.] "Physician" means a person licensed under chapter 147.

Subd. 6. [PROBABLE GESTATIONAL AGE OF THE UNBORN CHILD.] "Probable gestational age of the unborn child" means what will, in the judgment of the physician, with reasonable probability, be the gestational age of the unborn child at the time the abortion is planned to be performed. 

Sec. 33. [145.4242] [INFORMED CONSENT.]

No abortion shall be performed in this state except with the voluntary and informed consent of the female upon whom the abortion is to be performed. Except in the case of a medical emergency, consent to an abortion is voluntary and informed only if:

(1) the female is told the following, by telephone or in person, by the physician who is to perform the abortion or by a referring physician, at least 24 hours before the abortion:

(i) the name of the physician who will perform the abortion;

(ii) the particular medical risks associated with the particular abortion procedure to be employed including, when medically accurate, the risks of infection, hemorrhage, breast cancer, danger to subsequent pregnancies, and infertility;

(iii) the probable gestational age of the unborn child at the time the abortion is to be performed; and

(iv) the medical risks associated with carrying her child to term.

The information required by this clause may be provided by telephone without conducting a physical examination or tests of the patient, in which case the information required to be provided may be based on facts supplied the physician by the female and whatever other relevant information is reasonably available to the physician. It may not be provided by a tape recording, but must be provided during a consultation in which the physician is able to ask questions of the female and the female is able to ask questions of the physician. If a physical examination, tests, or the availability of other information to the physician subsequently indicate, in the medical judgment of the physician, a revision of the information previously supplied to the patient, that revised information may be communicated to the patient at any time prior to the performance of the abortion. Nothing in this section may be construed to preclude provision of required information in a language understood by the patient through a translator;

(2) the female is informed, by telephone or in person, by the physician who is to perform the abortion, by a referring physician, or by an agent of either physician at least 24 hours before the abortion:

(i) that medical assistance benefits may be available for prenatal care, childbirth, and neonatal care;

(ii) that the father is liable to assist in the support of her child, even in instances when the father has offered to pay for the abortion; and

(iii) that she has the right to review the printed materials described in section 145.4243. The physician or the physician's agent shall orally inform the female that the materials have been provided by the state of Minnesota and that they describe the unborn child and list agencies that offer alternatives to abortion. If the female chooses to view the materials, they shall either be given to her at least 24 hours before the abortion or mailed to her at least 72 hours before the abortion by certified mail, restricted delivery to addressee, which means the postal employee can only deliver the mail to the addressee.

The information required by this clause may be provided by a tape recording if provision is made to record or otherwise register specifically whether the female does or does not choose to review the printed materials;

(3) the female certifies in writing, prior to the abortion, that the information described in this section has been furnished her, and that she has been informed of her opportunity to review the information referred to in clause (2); and

(4) prior to the performance of the abortion, the physician who is to perform the abortion or the physician's agent receives a copy of the written certification prescribed by clause (3). 

Sec. 34. [145.4243] [PRINTED INFORMATION.]

(a) Within 90 days after the effective date of sections 145.4241 to 145.4246, the department of health shall cause to be published, in English and in each language that is the primary language of two percent or more of the state's population, the following printed materials in such a way as to ensure that the information is easily comprehensible:

(1) geographically indexed materials designed to inform the female of public and private agencies and services available to assist a female through pregnancy, upon childbirth, and while the child is dependent, including adoption agencies, which shall include a comprehensive list of the agencies available, a description of the services they offer, and a description of the manner, including telephone numbers, in which they might be contacted or, at the option of the department of health, printed materials including a toll-free, 24-hours-a-day telephone number that may be called to obtain, orally, such a list and description of agencies in the locality of the caller and of the services they offer; and

(2) materials designed to inform the female of the probable anatomical and physiological characteristics of the unborn child at two-week gestational increments from the time when a female can be known to be pregnant to full term, including any relevant information on the possibility of the unborn child's survival and pictures or drawings representing the development of unborn children at two-week gestational increments, provided that any such pictures or drawings must contain the dimensions of the fetus and must be realistic and appropriate for the stage of pregnancy depicted. The materials shall be objective, nonjudgmental, and designed to convey only accurate scientific information about the unborn child at the various gestational ages. The material shall also contain objective information describing the methods of abortion procedures commonly employed, the medical risks commonly associated with each procedure, the possible detrimental psychological effects of abortion, the medical risks commonly associated with each procedure, and the medical risks commonly associated with carrying a child to term.

(b) The materials referred to in this section must be printed in a typeface large enough to be clearly legible. The materials required under this section must be available at no cost from the department of health upon request and in appropriate number to any person, facility, or hospital.

Sec. 35. [145.4244] [PROCEDURE IN CASE OF MEDICAL EMERGENCY.]

When a medical emergency compels the performance of an abortion, the physician shall inform the female, prior to the abortion if possible, of the medical indications supporting the physician's judgment that an abortion is necessary to avert her death or that a 24-hour delay in conformance with section 145.4242 creates a serious risk of substantial and irreversible impairment of a major bodily function.

Sec. 36. [145.4245] [REMEDIES.]

Subdivision 1. [CIVIL REMEDIES.] Any person upon whom an abortion has been performed or the parent of a minor upon whom an abortion has been performed may maintain an action against the person who performed the abortion in knowing or reckless violation of sections 145.4241 to 145.4246 for actual and punitive damages. Any person upon whom an abortion has been attempted without complying with sections 145.4241 to 145.4246 may maintain an action against the person who attempted to perform the abortion in knowing or reckless violation of sections 145.4241 to 145.4246 for actual and punitive damages.

Subd. 2. [ATTORNEY FEES.] If judgment is rendered in favor of the plaintiff in any action described in this section, the court shall also render judgment for a reasonable attorney's fee in favor of the plaintiff against the defendant. If judgment is rendered in favor of the defendant and the court finds that the plaintiff's suit was frivolous and brought in bad faith, the court shall also render judgment for a reasonable attorney's fee in favor of the defendant against the plaintiff.

Subd. 3. [PROTECTION OF PRIVACY IN COURT PROCEEDINGS.] In every civil action brought under sections 145.4241 to 145.4246, the court shall rule whether the anonymity of any female upon whom an abortion has been performed or attempted shall be preserved from public disclosure if she does not give her consent to such

disclosure. The court, upon motion or sua sponte, shall make such a ruling and, upon determining that her anonymity should be preserved, shall issue orders to the parties, witnesses, and counsel and shall direct the sealing of the record and exclusion of individuals from courtrooms or hearing rooms to the extent necessary to safeguard her identity from public disclosure. Each order must be accompanied by specific written findings explaining why the anonymity of the female should be preserved from public disclosure, why the order is essential to that end, how the order is narrowly tailored to serve that interest, and why no reasonable, less restrictive alternative exists. In the absence of written consent of the female upon whom an abortion has been performed or attempted, anyone, other than a public official, who brings an action under subdivision 1, shall do so under a pseudonym. This section may not be construed to conceal the identity of the plaintiff or of witnesses from the defendant.

Sec. 37. [145.4246] [SEVERABILITY.]

If any one or more provision, section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or word of sections 145.4241 to 145.4246 or the application thereof to any person or circumstance is found to be unconstitutional, the same is hereby declared to be severable and the balance of sections 145.4241 to 145.4246 shall remain effective notwithstanding such unconstitutionality. The legislature hereby declares that it would have passed sections 145.4241 to 145.4246, and each provision, section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or word thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more provision, section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or word be declared unconstitutional.

Sec. 38. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 145.881, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [DUTIES.] The advisory task force shall meet on a regular basis to perform the following duties:

(a) review and report on the health care needs of mothers and children throughout the state of Minnesota;

(b) review and report on the type, frequency and impact of maternal and child health care services provided to mothers and children under existing maternal and child health care programs, including programs administered by the commissioner of health;

(c) establish, review, and report to the commissioner a list of program guidelines and criteria which the advisory task force considers essential to providing an effective maternal and child health care program to low income populations and high risk persons and fulfilling the purposes defined in section 145.88;

(d) review staff recommendations of the department of health regarding maternal and child health grant awards before the awards are made;

(e) make recommendations to the commissioner for the use of other federal and state funds available to meet maternal and child health needs;

(f) make recommendations to the commissioner of health on priorities for funding the following maternal and child health services: (1) prenatal, delivery and postpartum care, (2) comprehensive health care for children, especially from birth through five years of age, (3) adolescent health services, (4) family planning services, (5) preventive dental care, (6) special services for chronically ill and handicapped children and (7) any other services which promote the health of mothers and children; and

(g) make recommendations to the commissioner of health on the process to distribute, award and administer the maternal and child health block grant funds; and

(h) review the measures that are used to define the variables of the funding distribution formula in section 145.882, subdivision 4a, every two years and make recommendations to the commissioner of health for changes based upon principles established by the advisory task force for this purpose. 

Sec. 39. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 145.882, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 4a. [ALLOCATION TO COMMUNITY HEALTH BOARDS.] (a) Federal maternal and child health block grant money remaining after distributions made under subdivision 2 and money appropriated for allocation to community health boards must be allocated according to paragraphs (b) to (d) to community health boards as defined in section 145A.02, subdivision 5.

(b) All community health boards must receive 95 percent of the funding awarded to them for the 1998-1999 funding cycle. If the amount of state and federal funding available is less than 95 percent of the amount awarded to community health boards for the 1998-1999 funding cycle, the available funding must be apportioned to reflect a proportional decrease for each recipient.

(c) The federal and state funding remaining after distributions made under paragraph (b) must be allocated to each community health board based on the following three variables:

(1) 25 percent based on the maternal and child population in the area served by the community health board;

(2) 50 percent based on the following factors, as determined by averaging the data available for the three most recent years:

(i) the proportion of infants in the area served by the community health board whose weight at birth was less than 2,500 grams;

(ii) the proportion of mothers in the area served by the community health board who received inadequate or no prenatal care;

(iii) the proportion of births in the area served by the community health board to women under age 19; and

(iv) the proportion of births in the area served by the community health board to American Indian women and women of color; and

(3) 25 percent based on the income of the maternal and child population in the area served by the community health board.

(d) Each variable must be expressed as a city or county score consisting of the city or county frequency of each variable in relation to the statewide frequency of the variable. A total score for each city or county jurisdiction must be computed by totaling the scores of the three variables. Each community health board must be allocated an amount equal to the total score obtained for the city, county, or counties in its area multiplied by the amount of money available.

Sec. 40. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 145.882, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7. [USE OF BLOCK GRANT MONEY.] (a) Maternal and child health block grant money allocated to a community health board or community health services area under this section must be used for qualified programs for high risk and low-income individuals. Block grant money must be used for programs that:

(1) specifically address the highest risk populations, particularly low-income and minority groups with a high rate of infant mortality and children with low birth weight, by providing services, including excluding prepregnancy family planning services, calculated to produce measurable decreases in infant mortality rates, instances of children with low birth weight, and medical complications associated with pregnancy and childbirth, including infant mortality, low birth rates, and medical complications arising from chemical abuse by a mother during pregnancy; 

(2) specifically target pregnant women whose age, medical condition, maternal history, or chemical abuse substantially increases the likelihood of complications associated with pregnancy and childbirth or the birth of a child with an illness, disability, or special medical needs;

(3) specifically address the health needs of young children who have or are likely to have a chronic disease or disability or special medical needs, including physical, neurological, emotional, and developmental problems that arise from chemical abuse by a mother during pregnancy;

(4) provide family planning and preventive medical care, excluding prepregnancy family planning services, for specifically identified target populations, such as minority and low-income teenagers, in a manner calculated to decrease the occurrence of inappropriate pregnancy and minimize the risk of complications associated with pregnancy and childbirth; or

(5) specifically address the frequency and severity of childhood injuries and other child and adolescent health problems in high-risk target populations by providing services, excluding prepregnancy family planning services, calculated to produce measurable decreases in mortality and morbidity. However, money may be used for this purpose only if the community health board's application includes program components for the purposes in clauses (1) to (4) in the proposed geographic service area and the total expenditure for injury-related programs under this clause does not exceed ten percent of the total allocation under subdivision 3.

(b) Maternal and child health block grant money may be used for purposes other than the purposes listed in this subdivision only under the following conditions:

(1) the community health board or community health services area can demonstrate that existing programs fully address the needs of the highest risk target populations described in this subdivision; or

(2) the money is used to continue projects that received funding before creation of the maternal and child health block grant in 1981.

(c) Projects that received funding before creation of the maternal and child health block grant in 1981, must be allocated at least the amount of maternal and child health special project grant funds received in 1989, unless (1) the local board of health provides equivalent alternative funding for the project from another source; or (2) the local board of health demonstrates that the need for the specific services provided by the project has significantly decreased as a result of changes in the demographic characteristics of the population, or other factors that have a major impact on the demand for services. If the amount of federal funding to the state for the maternal and child health block grant is decreased, these projects must receive a proportional decrease as required in subdivision 1. Increases in allocation amounts to local boards of health under subdivision 4 may be used to increase funding levels for these projects.

Sec. 41. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 145.885, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR COMMUNITY BOARDS OF HEALTH.] Applications by community health boards as defined in section 145A.02, subdivision 5, under section 145.882, subdivision 3 4a, must also contain a summary of the process used to develop the local program, including evidence that the community health board notified local public and private providers of the availability of funding through the community health board for maternal and child health services; a list of all public and private agency requests for grants submitted to the community health board indicating which requests were included in the grant application; and an explanation of how priorities were established for selecting the requests to be included in the grant application. The community health board shall include, with the grant application, a written statement of the criteria to be applied to public and private agency requests for funding. 

Sec. 42. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 145.924, is amended to read:

145.924 [AIDS PREVENTION GRANTS.]

Subdivision 1. [GRANT AWARDS.] (a) The commissioner may award grants to boards of health as defined in section 145A.02, subdivision 2, state agencies, state councils, or nonprofit corporations to provide evaluation and counseling services to populations at risk for acquiring human immunodeficiency virus infection, including, but not limited to, minorities, adolescents, intravenous drug users, and homosexual men.

(b) The commissioner may award grants to agencies experienced in providing services to communities of color, for the design of innovative outreach and education programs for targeted groups within the community who may be at risk of acquiring the human immunodeficiency virus infection, including intravenous drug users and their partners, adolescents, gay and bisexual individuals and women. Grants shall be awarded on a request for proposal basis and shall include funds for administrative costs. Priority for grants shall be given to agencies or organizations that have experience in providing service to the particular community which the grantee proposes to serve; that have policymakers representative of the targeted population; that have experience in dealing with issues relating to HIV/AIDS; and that have the capacity to deal effectively with persons of differing sexual orientations. For purposes of this paragraph, the "communities of color" are: the American-Indian community; the Hispanic community; the African-American community; and the Asian-Pacific community.

(c) All state grants awarded under this section subdivision for programs targeted to adolescents shall include the promotion of abstinence from sexual activity and drug use.

Subd. 2. [OUTCOMES.] The commissioner, in consultation with boards of health, agencies, councils, and nonprofit organizations involved in human immunodeficiency virus infection prevention efforts shall establish measurable outcomes to determine the effectiveness of the grants provided under this section in reducing the number of people who acquire human immunodeficiency virus, the rates of infection, and average numbers of sexual partners for populations served by grants funded under this section.

Subd. 3. [EVALUATION.] (a) Using the outcomes established according to subdivision 2, the commissioner shall conduct a biennial evaluation of activities funded under this section. The evaluation must include:

(1) the effect of these activities on the number of people who acquire human immunodeficiency virus and the rates of infection;

(2) the effect of these activities on average numbers of sexual partners for populations served by grants funded under this section; and

(3) a longitudinal tracking of outcomes for targeted populations who are served under subdivision 1, paragraphs (a) and (b).

(b) Grant recipients shall cooperate with the commissioner in the evaluation and shall provide the commissioner with the information needed to conduct the evaluation. Beginning January 15, 2003, the results of each evaluation must be submitted to the chairs of the policy and finance committees in the house and senate with jurisdiction over health and human services.

Sec. 43. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 145.925, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [ELIGIBLE ORGANIZATIONS; PURPOSE.] The commissioner of health may make special grants to cities, counties, tribal governments, or groups of cities or, counties, or nonprofit corporations or tribal governments to provide prepregnancy family planning services. targeted to low-income and minority populations. A city, county, tribal government, or group of cities, counties, or tribal governments that receives a grant is responsible for ensuring that the grant funds are used for services targeted to low-income and minority populations, and must establish a goal for reducing specific pregnancy rates in the service area. In determining populations to

serve and services to provide, a city, county, tribal government, or group of cities, counties, or tribal governments must consider the spacing of pregnancies in low-income and minority populations in the service area, teen birth rates in the service area, and the needs of populations of color in the service area. A city, county, tribal government, or group of cities, counties, or tribal governments may contract for the provision of prepregnancy family planning services using grant funds provided under this section only if the contract is specifically authorized by the governing body of the city, county, or tribal government that is contracting for the services.

Any organization or an affiliate of an organization which provides abortions, promotes abortions, or directly refers for abortions, shall be ineligible to receive funds under this subdivision.

Sec. 44. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 145.925, subdivision 1a, is amended to read:

Subd. 1a. [FAMILY PLANNING SERVICES; DEFINED.] "Family planning services" means counseling by trained personnel regarding family planning; distribution of information relating to family planning, referral to licensed physicians or local health agencies for consultation, examination, medical treatment, genetic counseling, and prescriptions for the purpose of family planning; and the distribution of family planning products, such as charts, thermometers, drugs, medical preparations, and contraceptive devices. Family planning services do not include services that, directly or indirectly, encourage, counsel, refer, or provide abortions or abortion referrals. For purposes of sections 145A.01 to 145A.14, family planning shall mean voluntary action by individuals to prevent or aid conception but does not include the performance, or make referrals for encouragement of voluntary termination of pregnancy services that, directly or indirectly, encourage, counsel, refer, or provide abortions or abortion referrals.

Sec. 45. [145.9257] [TEEN PREGNANCY PREVENTION.]

Subdivision 1. [GOAL.] It is the goal of the state to reduce teen pregnancy rates by 24 percent by 2006. To do so, the commissioner of health shall establish a grant program to reduce the rates of unintended teen pregnancies in the state. If this goal of reducing teen pregnancy rates by 24 percent is not met by December 31, 2006, this section expires June 30, 2007. No funds awarded under this section may be used for medical services or family planning services or for services that, directly or indirectly, encourage, counsel, refer, or provide abortions or abortion referrals.

Any organization or an affiliate of an organization which provides abortions, promotes abortions, or directly refers for abortions, shall be ineligible to receive funds under this section.

Subd. 2. [STATE-COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS; PLAN.] The commissioner, in consultation with the commissioner of children, families, and learning; the commissioner of human services; the maternal and child health advisory task force under section 145.881; the Indian affairs council under section 3.922; the council on affairs of Chicano/Latino people under section 3.9223; the council on Black Minnesotans under section 3.9225; the council on Asian-Pacific Minnesotans under section 3.9226; community health boards as defined in section 145A.02; tribal governments; nonprofit community organizations; and others interested in teen pregnancy prevention, shall develop and implement a comprehensive, coordinated plan to reduce the number of teen pregnancies.

Subd. 3. [MEASURABLE OUTCOMES.] The commissioner, in consultation with the commissioners and community partners listed in subdivision 2, shall establish measurable outcomes to achieve the goal specified in subdivision 1 and to determine the effectiveness of the grants provided under this section in reducing teen pregnancies. The development of measurable outcomes must be completed before any funds are distributed under this section.

Subd. 4. [STATEWIDE ASSESSMENT.] The commissioner shall use and enhance current statewide assessments of teen pregnancy risk behaviors and attitudes among youth to establish a baseline to measure the statewide effect of teen pregnancy prevention activities. To the extent feasible, the commissioner shall conduct the assessment so that the results may be compared to national data. 

Subd. 5. [PROCESS.] The commissioner, in consultation with the commissioners and community partners listed in subdivision 2, shall develop the criteria and procedures used to allocate grants under this section. In developing the criteria, the commissioner shall establish an administrative cost limit for grant recipients. At the time a grant is awarded, the commissioner shall provide a grant recipient with information on the outcomes established according to subdivision 3.

Subd. 6. [TEEN PREGNANCY PREVENTION DISPARITY GRANTS.] (a) The commissioner shall award competitive grants to eligible applicants for projects to reduce disparities in unintended teen pregnancy rates for American Indians and populations of color, as compared with unintended teen pregnancy rates for whites.

(b) No funds awarded under this subdivision may be used for medical services or family planning services or for services that, directly or indirectly, encourage, counsel, refer, or provide abortions or abortion referrals.

Any organization or an affiliate of an organization which provides abortions, promotes abortions, or directly refers for abortions, shall be ineligible to receive funds under this subdivision.

(c) Eligible applicants may include, but are not limited to, nonprofit organizations, school districts, faith-based organizations, community health boards, and tribal governments. Applicants must submit proposals to the commissioner. A proposal must specify the strategies to be implemented and must take into account the need for a coordinated, statewide teen pregnancy prevention effort. Strategies may include youth development programs, after-school enrichment programs, youth mentoring programs, academic support programs, and abstinence until marriage education programs.

(d) The commissioner shall give priority to applicants who demonstrate that their proposed project:

(1) emphasizes abstinence until marriage;

(2) is research-based or based on proven, effective strategies;

(3) is designed to coordinate with related youth risk behavior reduction activities;

(4) involves youth and parents in the project's development and implementation;

(5) reflects racially and ethnically appropriate approaches; and

(6) will be implemented through or with persons or community-based organizations that reflect the race or ethnicity of the population to be reached.

Subd. 7. [HIGH-RISK COMMUNITY TEEN PREGNANCY PREVENTION GRANTS.] (a) The commissioner shall award grants to communities that have significant risk factors for teen pregnancies, that currently have in place youth development programs, and that are interested in expanding existing efforts to prevent teen pregnancies.

(b) No funds awarded under this subdivision may be used for medical services or family planning services or for services that, directly or indirectly, encourage, counsel, refer, or provide abortions or abortion referrals.

Any organization or an affiliate of an organization which provides abortions, promotes abortions, or directly refers for abortions, shall be ineligible to receive funds under this subdivision.

(c) To be eligible for a grant under this subdivision, an applicant must be a tribal government or a community health board as defined in section 145A.02. Applicants must submit proposals to the commissioner. A proposal must specify the strategies to be implemented. Strategies may include, but are not limited to, youth development programs, youth mentoring programs, academic support programs, and abstinence until marriage education programs. Applicants must demonstrate that a proposed project:

(1) emphasizes abstinence until marriage; 

(2) is research-based or based on proven, effective strategies;

(3) is designed to coordinate with related youth risk behavior reduction activities;

(4) involves youth and parents in the project's development and implementation;

(5) reflects racially and ethnically appropriate approaches; and

(6) will be implemented through or with persons or community-based organizations that reflect the race or ethnicity of the population to be reached.

(d) Grants may be awarded to up to 15 community health boards and three tribal governments based on areas having the highest risk factors for teen pregnancies. The commissioner shall award grants based on the following risk factors:

(1) the proportion of teens in the applicant's service area who are sexually active;

(2) the proportion of births to teens in the applicant's service area; and

(3) the proportion of births to teens who are American Indian or of a population of color in the applicant's service area.

Subd. 8. [ADOLESCENT PARENT GRANTS.] The commissioner shall transfer funds to the commissioner of children, families, and learning to increase the number of adolescent parent grants currently provided by the commissioner of children, families, and learning under section 124D.33.

Subd. 9. [COORDINATION.] The commissioner shall coordinate the projects and initiatives funded under this section with other efforts at the local, state, and national levels to avoid duplication and promote complementary efforts.

Subd. 10. [EVALUATION.] Using the outcomes established according to subdivision 3, the commissioner shall conduct a biennial evaluation of the impact of each teen pregnancy prevention initiative in this section. Grant recipients and the commissioner of children, families, and learning shall cooperate with the commissioner in the evaluation and shall provide the commissioner with the information needed to conduct the evaluation.

Subd. 11. [REPORT.] By January 15, 2002, and January 15 of each even-numbered year thereafter, the commissioner shall submit a report to the legislature on the projects funded under this section and the results of the biennial evaluation.

Sec. 46. [145.9268] [COMMUNITY CLINIC GRANTS.]

Subdivision 1. [DEFINITION.] For purposes of this section, "eligible community clinic" means:

(1) a clinic that provides services under conditions as defined in Minnesota Rules, part 9505.0255 or 9505.0380, and utilizes a sliding fee scale to determine eligibility for charity care;

(2) an Indian tribal government or Indian health service unit; or

(3) a consortium of clinics comprised of entities under clause (1) or (2).

Subd. 2. [GRANTS AUTHORIZED.] The commissioner of health shall award grants to eligible community clinics to improve the ongoing viability of Minnesota's clinic-based safety net providers. Grants shall be awarded to support the capacity of eligible community clinics to serve low-income populations, reduce current or future uncompensated care burdens, or provide for improved care delivery infrastructure. 

Subd. 3. [ALLOCATION OF GRANTS.] (a) To receive a grant under this section, an eligible community clinic must submit an application to the commissioner of health by the deadline established by the commissioner. A grant may be awarded upon the signing of a grant contract.

(b) An application must be on a form and contain information as specified by the commissioner but at a minimum must contain:

(1) a description of the project for which grant funds will be used;

(2) a description of the problem the proposed project will address; and

(3) a description of achievable objectives, a workplan, and a timeline for project completion.

(c) The commissioner shall review each application to determine whether the application is complete and whether the applicant and the project are eligible for a grant. In evaluating applications according to paragraph (e), the commissioner shall establish criteria including, but not limited to: the priority level of the project; the applicant's thoroughness and clarity in describing the problem; a description of the applicant's proposed project; the manner in which the applicant will demonstrate the effectiveness of the project; and evidence of efficiencies and effectiveness gained through collaborative efforts. The commissioner may also take into account other relevant factors, including, but not limited to, the percentage for which uninsured patients represent the applicant's patient base. During application review, the commissioner may request additional information about a proposed project, including information on project cost. Failure to provide the information requested disqualifies an applicant.

(d) A grant awarded to an eligible community clinic may not exceed $300,000 per eligible community clinic. For an applicant applying as a consortium of clinics, a grant may not exceed $300,000 per clinic included in the consortium. The commissioner has discretion over the number of grants awarded.

(e) In determining which eligible community clinics will receive grants under this section, the commissioner shall give preference to those grant applications that show evidence of collaboration with other eligible community clinics, hospitals, health care providers, or community organizations. In addition, the commissioner shall give priority, in declining order, to grant applications for projects that:

(1) establish, update, or improve information, data collection, or billing systems;

(2) procure, modernize, remodel, or replace equipment used an the delivery of direct patient care at a clinic;

(3) provide improvements for care delivery, such as increased translation and interpretation services;

(4) provide a direct offset to expenses incurred for charity care services; or

(5) other projects determined by the commissioner to improve the ability of applicants to provide care to the vulnerable populations they serve.

Subd. 4. [EVALUATION.] The commissioner of health shall evaluate the overall effectiveness of the grant program. The commissioner shall collect progress reports to evaluate the grant program from the eligible community clinics receiving grants.

Sec. 47. [145.928] [ELIMINATING HEALTH DISPARITIES.]

Subdivision 1. [GOAL; ESTABLISHMENT.] It is the goal of the state, by 2010, to decrease by 50 percent the disparities in infant mortality rates and adult and child immunization rates for American Indians and populations of color, as compared with rates for whites. To do so and to achieve other measurable outcomes, the commissioner of health shall establish a program to close the gap in the health status of American Indians and populations of color as compared with whites in the following priority areas: infant mortality, breast and cervical cancer screening,

HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections, adult and child immunizations, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and accidental injuries and violence. If this goal of reducing disparities in infant mortality rates and adult and child immunization rates is not met by December 31, 2010, this section expires June 30, 2011.

Subd. 2. [STATE-COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS; PLAN.] The commissioner, in partnership with culturally-based community organizations; the Indian affairs council under section 3.922; the council on affairs of Chicano/Latino people under section 3.9223; the council on Black Minnesotans under section 3.9225; the council on Asian-Pacific Minnesotans under section 3.9226; community health boards as defined in section 145A.02; and tribal governments, shall develop and implement a comprehensive, coordinated plan to reduce health disparities in the health disparity priority areas identified in subdivision 1.

Subd. 3. [MEASURABLE OUTCOMES.] The commissioner, in consultation with the community partners listed in subdivision 2, shall establish measurable outcomes to achieve the goal specified in subdivision 1 and to determine the effectiveness of the grants and other activities funded under this section in reducing health disparities in the priority areas identified in subdivision 1. The development of measurable outcomes must be completed before any funds are distributed under this section.

Subd. 4. [STATEWIDE ASSESSMENT.] The commissioner shall enhance current data tools to ensure a statewide assessment of the risk behaviors associated with the health disparity priority areas identified in subdivision 1. The statewide assessment must be used to establish a baseline to measure the effect of activities funded under this section. To the extent feasible, the commissioner shall conduct the assessment so that the results may be compared to national data.

Subd. 5. [TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE.] The commissioner shall provide the necessary expertise to grant applicants to ensure that submitted proposals are likely to be successful in reducing the health disparities identified in subdivision 1. The commissioner shall provide grant recipients with guidance and training on best or most promising strategies to use to reduce the health disparities identified in subdivision 1. The commissioner shall also assist grant recipients in the development of materials and procedures to evaluate local community activities.

Subd. 6. [PROCESS.] (a) The commissioner, in consultation with the community partners listed in subdivision 2, shall develop the criteria and procedures used to allocate grants under this section. In developing the criteria, the commissioner shall establish an administrative cost limit for grant recipients. At the time a grant is awarded, the commissioner must provide a grant recipient with information on the outcomes established according to subdivision 3.

(b) A grant recipient must coordinate its activities to reduce health disparities with other entities receiving funds under this section that are in the grant recipient's service area.

Subd. 7. [COMMUNITY GRANT PROGRAM; IMMUNIZATION RATES AND INFANT MORTALITY RATES.] (a) The commissioner shall award grants to eligible applicants for local or regional projects and initiatives directed at reducing health disparities in one or both of the following priority areas:

(1) decreasing racial and ethnic disparities in infant mortality rates; or

(2) increasing adult and child immunization rates in nonwhite racial and ethnic populations.

(b) The commissioner may award up to 20 percent of the funds available as planning grants. Planning grants must be used to address such areas as community assessment, coordination activities, and development of community supported strategies.

(c) Eligible applicants may include, but are not limited to, faith-based organizations, social service organizations, community nonprofit organizations, community health boards, tribal governments, and community clinics. Applicants must submit proposals to the commissioner. A proposal must specify the strategies to be implemented to address one or both of the priority areas listed in paragraph (a) and must be targeted to achieve the outcomes established according to subdivision 3. 

(d) The commissioner shall give priority to applicants who demonstrate that their proposed project or initiative:

(1) is supported by the community the applicant will serve;

(2) is research-based or based on promising strategies;

(3) is designed to complement other related community activities;

(4) utilizes strategies that positively impact both priority areas;

(5) reflects racially and ethnically appropriate approaches; and

(6) will be implemented through or with community-based organizations that reflect the race or ethnicity of the population to be reached.

Subd. 8. [COMMUNITY GRANT PROGRAM; OTHER HEALTH DISPARITIES.] (a) The commissioner shall award grants to eligible applicants for local or regional projects and initiatives directed at reducing health disparities in one or more of the following priority areas:

(1) decreasing racial and ethnic disparities in morbidity and mortality rates from breast and cervical cancer;

(2) decreasing racial and ethnic disparities in morbidity and mortality rates from HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted infections;

(3) decreasing racial and ethnic disparities in morbidity and mortality rates from cardiovascular disease;

(4) decreasing racial and ethnic disparities in morbidity and mortality rates from diabetes; or

(5) decreasing racial and ethnic disparities in morbidity and mortality rates from accidental injuries or violence.

(b) The commissioner may award up to 20 percent of the funds available as planning grants. Planning grants must be used to address such areas as community assessment, determining community priority areas, coordination activities, and development of community supported strategies.

(c) Eligible applicants may include, but are not limited to, faith-based organizations, social service organizations, community nonprofit organizations, community health boards, tribal governments, and community clinics. Applicants shall submit proposals to the commissioner. A proposal must specify the strategies to be implemented to address one or more of the priority areas listed in paragraph (a) and must be targeted to achieve the outcomes established according to subdivision 3.

(d) The commissioner shall give priority to applicants who demonstrate that their proposed project or initiative:

(1) is supported by the community the applicant will serve;

(2) is research-based or based on promising strategies;

(3) is designed to complement other related community activities;

(4) utilizes strategies that positively impact more than one priority area;

(5) reflects racially and ethnically appropriate approaches; and

(6) will be implemented through or with community-based organizations that reflect the race or ethnicity of the population to be reached. 

Subd. 9. [REFUGEE AND IMMIGRANT HEALTH.] (a) The commissioner shall distribute funds to community health boards for health screening and follow-up services for tuberculosis for refugees. Funds shall be distributed based on the following formula:

(1) $1,500 per refugee with pulmonary tuberculosis in the community health board's service area;

(2) $500 per refugee with extrapulmonary tuberculosis in the community health board's service area;

(3) $500 per month of directly observed therapy provided by the community health board for each uninsured refugee with pulmonary or extrapulmonary tuberculosis; and

(4) $50 per refugee in the community health board's service area.

(b) Payments must be made at the end of each state fiscal year. The amount paid per tuberculosis case, per month of directly observed therapy, and per refugee must be proportionately increased or decreased to fit the actual amount appropriated for that fiscal year.

Subd. 10. [COORDINATION.] The commissioner shall coordinate the projects and initiatives funded under this section with other efforts at the local, state, or national level to avoid duplication and promote complementary efforts.

Subd. 11. [EVALUATION.] Using the outcomes established according to subdivision 3, the commissioner shall conduct a biennial evaluation of the community grant programs under subdivisions 7 and 8. Grant recipients shall cooperate with the commissioner in the evaluation and shall provide the commissioner with the information needed to conduct the evaluation.

Subd. 12. [REPORT.] By January 15, 2002, and January 15 of each even-numbered year thereafter, the commissioner shall submit a report to the legislature on the local community projects and community health board activities funded under this section. The report must include information on grant recipients, activities conducted using grant funds, and evaluation data and outcome measures if available.

Sec. 48. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 145A.15, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [ESTABLISHMENT.] (a) The commissioner of health shall expand the current grant program to fund additional projects designed to prevent child abuse and neglect and reduce juvenile delinquency by promoting positive parenting, resiliency in children, and a healthy beginning for children by providing early intervention services for families in need. Grant dollars shall be available to train paraprofessionals to provide in-home intervention services and to allow public health nurses to do case management of services. The grant program shall provide early intervention services for families in need and will include:

(1) expansion of current public health nurse and family aide home visiting programs and public health home visiting projects which prevent child abuse and neglect, prevent juvenile delinquency, and build resiliency in children;

(2) early intervention to promote a healthy and nurturing beginning;

(3) distribution of educational and public information programs and materials in hospital maternity divisions, well-baby clinics, obstetrical clinics, and community clinics; and

(4) training of home visitors in skills necessary for comprehensive home visiting which promotes a healthy and nurturing beginning for the child.

(b) No new grants shall be awarded under this section after June 30, 2001. Grant contracts awarded and in effect under this section as of July 1, 2001, shall continue until their expiration date. 

Sec. 49. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 145A.15, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 5. [EXPIRATION.] This section expires June 30, 2003.

Sec. 50. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 145A.16, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [ESTABLISHMENT.] The commissioner shall establish a grant program to fund universally offered home visiting programs designed to serve all live births in designated geographic areas. The commissioner shall designate the geographic area to be served by each program. At least one program must provide home visiting services to families within the seven-county metropolitan area, and at least one program must provide home visiting services to families outside the metropolitan area. The purpose of the program is to strengthen families and to promote positive parenting and healthy child development. No new grants shall be awarded under this section after June 30, 2001. Competitive grant contracts awarded and in effect under this section as of July 1, 2001, shall expire December 31, 2003.

Sec. 51. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 145A.16, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 10. [EXPIRATION.] This section expires December 31, 2003.

Sec. 52. [145A.17] [FAMILY HOME VISITING PROGRAMS.]

Subdivision 1. [ESTABLISHMENT; GOALS.] The commissioner shall establish a program to fund family home visiting programs designed to foster a healthy beginning for children in families at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines, prevent child abuse and neglect, reduce juvenile delinquency, promote positive parenting and resiliency in children, and promote family health and economic self-sufficiency. A program funded under this section must serve families at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines, and other families determined to be at risk for child abuse, neglect, or juvenile delinquency. Programs must give priority for services to families considered to be in need of services, including but not limited to families with:

(1) adolescent parents;

(2) a history of alcohol or other drug abuse;

(3) a history of child abuse, domestic abuse, or other types of violence;

(4) a history of domestic abuse, rape, or other forms of victimization;

(5) reduced cognitive functioning;

(6) a lack of knowledge of child growth and development stages;

(7) low resiliency to adversities and environmental stresses; or

(8) insufficient financial resources to meet family needs.

Subd. 2. [ALLOCATION OF FUNDS.] The commissioner shall distribute funds available under this section to community health boards, as defined in section 145A.02, and to tribal governments. Funds shall be distributed to community health boards as follows: (1) each community health board shall receive an allocation of $25,000 per year; and (2) remaining funds available to community health boards shall be distributed according to the formula in section 256J.625, subdivision 3. The commissioner, in consultation with tribal governments, shall establish a formula for distributing funds to tribal governments. 

Subd. 3. [REQUIREMENTS FOR PROGRAMS; PROCESS.] (a) Before a community health board or tribal government may receive an allocation under subdivision 2, a community health board or tribal government must submit a proposal to the commissioner that includes identification, based on a community assessment, of the populations at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines that will be served and the other populations that will be served. Each program that receives funds must:

(1) use either a broad community-based or selective community-based strategy to provide preventive and early intervention home visiting services;

(2) offer a home visit by a trained home visitor. If a home visit is accepted, the first home visit must occur prenatally or as soon after birth as possible and must include a public health nursing assessment by a public health nurse;

(3) offer, at a minimum, information on infant care, child growth and development, positive parenting, preventing diseases, preventing exposure to environmental hazards, and support services available in the community;

(4) provide information on and referrals to health care services, if needed, including information on health care coverage for which the child or family may be eligible; and provide information on preventive services, developmental assessments, and the availability of public assistance programs as appropriate;

(5) recruit home visitors who will represent, to the extent possible, the races, cultures, and languages spoken by families that may be served;

(6) train and supervise home visitors in accordance with the requirements established under subdivision 4;

(7) maximize resources and minimize duplication by coordinating activities with local social and human services organizations, education organizations, and other appropriate governmental entities and community-based organizations and agencies; and

(8) utilize appropriate racial and ethnic approaches to providing home visiting services.

(b) Funds available under this section shall not be used for medical services. The commissioner shall establish an administrative cost limit for recipients of funds. The outcome measures established under subdivision 6 must be specified to recipients of funds at the time the funds are distributed.

Subd. 4. [TRAINING.] The commissioner shall establish training requirements for home visitors and minimum requirements for supervision by a public health nurse. The requirements for nurses must be consistent with chapter 148. Training must include child development, positive parenting techniques, and diverse cultural practices in child rearing and family systems.

Subd. 5. [TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE.] The commissioner shall provide administrative and technical assistance to each program, including assistance in data collection and other activities related to conducting short- and long-term evaluations of the programs as required under subdivision 7. The commissioner may request research and evaluation support from the University of Minnesota.

Subd. 6. [OUTCOME MEASURES.] The commissioner shall establish outcomes to determine the impact of family home visiting programs funded under this section on the following areas:

(1) appropriate utilization of preventive health care;

(2) rates of substantiated child abuse and neglect;

(3) rates of unintentional child injuries; and

(4) any additional qualitative goals and quantitative measures established by the commissioner. 

Subd. 7. [EVALUATION.] Using the qualitative goals and quantitative outcome measures established under subdivisions 1 and 6, the commissioner shall conduct ongoing evaluations of the programs funded under this section. Community health boards and tribal governments shall cooperate with the commissioner in the evaluations and shall provide the commissioner with the information necessary to conduct the evaluations. As part of the ongoing evaluations, the commissioner shall rate the impact of the programs on the outcome measures listed in subdivision 6, and shall periodically determine whether home visiting programs are the best way to achieve the qualitative goals established in subdivision 1 and by the commissioner. If the commissioner determines that home visiting programs are not the best way to achieve these goals, the commissioner shall provide the legislature with alternative methods for achieving them.

Subd. 8. [REPORT.] By January 15, 2002, and January 15 of each even-numbered year thereafter, the commissioner shall submit a report to the legislature on the family home visiting programs funded under this section and on the results of the evaluations conducted under subdivision 7.

Subd. 9. [NO SUPPLANTING OF EXISTING FUNDS.] Funding available under this section may be used only to supplement, not to replace, nonstate funds being used for home visiting services as of July 1, 2001.

Sec. 53. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 157.16, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3. [ESTABLISHMENT FEES; DEFINITIONS.] (a) The following fees are required for food and beverage service establishments, hotels, motels, lodging establishments, and resorts licensed under this chapter. Food and beverage service establishments must pay the highest applicable fee under paragraph (e), clause (1), (2), (3), or (4), and establishments serving alcohol must pay the highest applicable fee under paragraph (e), clause (6) or (7). The license fee for new operators previously licensed under this chapter for the same calendar year is one-half of the appropriate annual license fee, plus any penalty that may be required. The license fee for operators opening on or after October 1 is one-half of the appropriate annual license fee, plus any penalty that may be required. The fees in paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) effective until June 30, 2001, shall be phased up as specified in section 55 to the fee amounts effective beginning July 1, 2004. Notwithstanding section 16A.1285, in fiscal years 2002, 2003, and 2004, the commissioner shall regulate food and beverage service establishments, hotels, motels, lodging establishments, and resorts with the fees collected for that purpose.

(b) All food and beverage service establishments, except special event food stands, and all hotels, motels, lodging establishments, and resorts shall pay an annual base fee of $100 until June 30, 2001. Effective July 1, 2004, the annual base fee shall be $145.

(c) A special event food stand shall pay a flat fee of $30 annually until June 30, 2001. Effective July 1, 2004, the annual flat fee shall be $35. "Special event food stand" means a fee category where food is prepared or served in conjunction with celebrations, county fairs, or special events from a special event food stand as defined in section 157.15.

(d) In addition to the base fee in paragraph (b), each food and beverage service establishment, other than a special event food stand, and each hotel, motel, lodging establishment, and resort shall pay an additional annual fee for each fee category as specified in this paragraph:

(1) Limited food menu selection, $30 until June 30, 2001. Effective July 1, 2004, the annual fee shall be $40. "Limited food menu selection" means a fee category that provides one or more of the following:

(i) prepackaged food that receives heat treatment and is served in the package;

(ii) frozen pizza that is heated and served;

(iii) a continental breakfast such as rolls, coffee, juice, milk, and cold cereal; 

(iv) soft drinks, coffee, or nonalcoholic beverages; or

(v) cleaning for eating, drinking, or cooking utensils, when the only food served is prepared off site.

(2) Small establishment, including boarding establishments, $55 until June 30, 2001. Effective July 1, 2004, the annual fee shall be $75. "Small establishment" means a fee category that has no salad bar and meets one or more of the following:

(i) possesses food service equipment that consists of no more than a deep fat fryer, a grill, two hot holding containers, and one or more microwave ovens;

(ii) serves dipped ice cream or soft serve frozen desserts;

(iii) serves breakfast in an owner-occupied bed and breakfast establishment;

(iv) is a boarding establishment; or

(v) meets the equipment criteria in clause (3), item (i) or (ii), and has a maximum patron seating capacity of not more than 50.

(3) Medium establishment, $150 until June 30, 2001. Effective July 1, 2004, the annual fee shall be $210. "Medium establishment" means a fee category that meets one or more of the following:

(i) possesses food service equipment that includes a range, oven, steam table, salad bar, or salad preparation area;

(ii) possesses food service equipment that includes more than one deep fat fryer, one grill, or two hot holding containers; or

(iii) is an establishment where food is prepared at one location and served at one or more separate locations.

Establishments meeting criteria in clause (2), item (v), are not included in this fee category.

(4) Large establishment, $250 until June 30, 2001. Effective July 1, 2004, the annual fee shall be $350. "Large establishment" means either:

(i) a fee category that (A) meets the criteria in clause (3), items (i) or (ii), for a medium establishment, (B) seats more than 175 people, and (C) offers the full menu selection an average of five or more days a week during the weeks of operation; or

(ii) a fee category that (A) meets the criteria in clause (3), item (iii), for a medium establishment, and (B) prepares and serves 500 or more meals per day.

(5) Other food and beverage service, including food carts, mobile food units, seasonal temporary food stands, and seasonal permanent food stands, $30 until June 30, 2001. Effective July 1, 2004, the annual fee shall be $40.

(6) Beer or wine table service, $30 until June 30, 2001. Effective July 1, 2004, the annual fee shall be $40. "Beer or wine table service" means a fee category where the only alcoholic beverage service is beer or wine, served to customers seated at tables.

(7) Alcoholic beverage service, other than beer or wine table service, $75 until June 30, 2001. Effective July 1, 2004, the annual fee shall be $105.

"Alcohol beverage service, other than beer or wine table service" means a fee category where alcoholic mixed drinks are served or where beer or wine are served from a bar. 

(8) Until June 30, 2001, lodging per sleeping accommodation unit, $4, including hotels, motels, lodging establishments, and resorts, up to a maximum of $400. Effective July 1, 2004, lodging per sleeping accommodation unit, $6, including hotels, motels, lodging establishments, and resorts, up to a maximum of $600. "Lodging per sleeping accommodation unit" means a fee category including the number of guest rooms, cottages, or other rental units of a hotel, motel, lodging establishment, or resort; or the number of beds in a dormitory.

(9) First public swimming pool, $100 until June 30, 2001; each additional public swimming pool, $50 until June 30, 2001. Effective July 1, 2004, first public swimming pool, $140; each additional public swimming pool, $80. "Public swimming pool" means a fee category that has the meaning given in Minnesota Rules, part 4717.0250, subpart 8.

(10) First spa, $50 until June 30, 2001; each additional spa, $25 until June 30, 2001. Effective July 1, 2004, first spa, $80; each additional spa, $40. "Spa pool" means a fee category that has the meaning given in Minnesota Rules, part 4717.0250, subpart 9.

(11) Private sewer or water, $30 until June 30, 2001. Effective July 1, 2004, private sewer or water, $40. "Individual private water" means a fee category with a water supply other than a community public water supply as defined in Minnesota Rules, chapter 4720. "Individual private sewer" means a fee category with an individual sewage treatment system which uses subsurface treatment and disposal.

(e) A fee is not required for a food and beverage service establishment operated by a school as defined in sections 120A.05, subdivisions 9, 11, 13, and 17 and 120A.22.

(f) A fee of $150 for review of the construction plans must accompany the initial license application for food and beverage service establishments, hotels, motels, lodging establishments, or resorts.

(g) (f) When existing food and beverage service establishments, hotels, motels, lodging establishments, or resorts are extensively remodeled, a fee of $150 must be submitted with the remodeling plans.

(h) (g) Seasonal temporary food stands and special event food stands are not required to submit construction or remodeling plans for review.

Sec. 54. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 157.22, is amended to read:

157.22 [EXEMPTIONS.]

This chapter shall not be construed to apply to:

(1) interstate carriers under the supervision of the United States Department of Health and Human Services;

(2) any building constructed and primarily used for religious worship;

(3) any building owned, operated, and used by a college or university in accordance with health regulations promulgated by the college or university under chapter 14;

(4) any person, firm, or corporation whose principal mode of business is licensed under sections 28A.04 and 28A.05, is exempt at that premises from licensure as a food or beverage establishment; provided that the holding of any license pursuant to sections 28A.04 and 28A.05 shall not exempt any person, firm, or corporation from the applicable provisions of this chapter or the rules of the state commissioner of health relating to food and beverage service establishments;

(5) family day care homes and group family day care homes governed by sections 245A.01 to 245A.16;

(6) nonprofit senior citizen centers for the sale of home-baked goods; and 

(7) food not prepared at an establishment and brought in by individuals attending a potluck event for consumption at the potluck event. An organization sponsoring a potluck event under this clause may advertise the potluck event to the public through any means. Individuals who are not members of an organization sponsoring a potluck event under this clause may attend the potluck event and consume the food at the event. Licensed food establishments cannot be sponsors of potluck events. Potluck event food shall not be brought into a licensed food establishment kitchen; and

(8) a home school in which a child is provided instruction at home.

Sec. 55. [ESTABLISHMENT FEES DURING TRANSITION PERIOD.]

For fiscal years 2002, 2003, and 2004, the following fees shall apply to food and beverage service establishments, hotels, motels, lodging establishments, and resorts for which fees are established under Minnesota Statutes, section 157.16, subdivision 3, paragraphs (b), (c), and (d):

Fiscal Year Fiscal Year Fiscal Year

Fee Category 2002 2003 2004

Annual base fee, all $111.25 $122.50 $133.75

food and beverage

service establishments

except special event

food stands and all

hotels, motels, lodging

establishments, and

resorts

Special event food $ 31.25 $ 32.50 $ 33.75

stand

Establishment with $ 32.50 $ 35.00 $ 37.50

limited food menu

selection

Small establishment $ 60.00 $ 65.00 $ 70.00

Medium establishment $165.00 $180.00 $195.00

Large establishment $275.00 $300.00 $325.00

Other food and $ 32.50 $ 35.00 $ 37.50

beverage service

Beer or wine table $ 32.50 $ 35.00 $ 37.50

service

Alcoholic beverage $ 82.50 $ 90.00 $ 97.50

service other than

beer or wine table

service

Lodging per sleeping $4.50 per $5.00 per $5.50 per

accommodation unit, unit, $450 unit, $500 unit, $550

up to a specified maximum maximum maximum

maximum

First public $110.00 $120.00 $130.00

swimming pool

Each additional $ 57.50 $ 65.00 $ 72.50

public swimming pool

First spa $ 57.50 $ 65.00 $ 72.50

Each additional spa $ 28.75 $ 32.50 $ 36.25

Private sewer or $ 32.50 $ 35.00 $ 37.50

water 

Sec. 56. [REPEALER.]

(a) Minnesota Statutes 2000, sections 145.882, subdivisions 3 and 4; and 145.927, are repealed.

(b) Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 144.148, subdivision 8, is repealed.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] Paragraph (b) of this section is effective the day following final enactment.

ARTICLE 2

HEALTH CARE

Section 1. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256.01, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [SPECIFIC POWERS.] Subject to the provisions of section 241.021, subdivision 2, the commissioner of human services shall:

(1) Administer and supervise all forms of public assistance provided for by state law and other welfare activities or services as are vested in the commissioner. Administration and supervision of human services activities or services includes, but is not limited to, assuring timely and accurate distribution of benefits, completeness of service, and quality program management. In addition to administering and supervising human services activities vested by law in the department, the commissioner shall have the authority to:

(a) require county agency participation in training and technical assistance programs to promote compliance with statutes, rules, federal laws, regulations, and policies governing human services;

(b) monitor, on an ongoing basis, the performance of county agencies in the operation and administration of human services, enforce compliance with statutes, rules, federal laws, regulations, and policies governing welfare services and promote excellence of administration and program operation;

(c) develop a quality control program or other monitoring program to review county performance and accuracy of benefit determinations;

(d) require county agencies to make an adjustment to the public assistance benefits issued to any individual consistent with federal law and regulation and state law and rule and to issue or recover benefits as appropriate;

(e) delay or deny payment of all or part of the state and federal share of benefits and administrative reimbursement according to the procedures set forth in section 256.017;

(f) make contracts with and grants to public and private agencies and organizations, both profit and nonprofit, and individuals, using appropriated funds; and

(g) enter into contractual agreements with federally recognized Indian tribes with a reservation in Minnesota to the extent necessary for the tribe to operate a federally approved family assistance program or any other program under the supervision of the commissioner. The commissioner shall consult with the affected county or counties in the contractual agreement negotiations, if the county or counties wish to be included, in order to avoid the duplication of county and tribal assistance program services. The commissioner may establish necessary accounts for the purposes of receiving and disbursing funds as necessary for the operation of the programs.

(2) Inform county agencies, on a timely basis, of changes in statute, rule, federal law, regulation, and policy necessary to county agency administration of the programs. 

(3) Administer and supervise all child welfare activities; promote the enforcement of laws protecting handicapped, dependent, neglected and delinquent children, and children born to mothers who were not married to the children's fathers at the times of the conception nor at the births of the children; license and supervise child-caring and child-placing agencies and institutions; supervise the care of children in boarding and foster homes or in private institutions; and generally perform all functions relating to the field of child welfare now vested in the state board of control.

(4) Administer and supervise all noninstitutional service to handicapped persons, including those who are visually impaired, hearing impaired, or physically impaired or otherwise handicapped. The commissioner may provide and contract for the care and treatment of qualified indigent children in facilities other than those located and available at state hospitals when it is not feasible to provide the service in state hospitals.

(5) Assist and actively cooperate with other departments, agencies and institutions, local, state, and federal, by performing services in conformity with the purposes of Laws 1939, chapter 431.

(6) Act as the agent of and cooperate with the federal government in matters of mutual concern relative to and in conformity with the provisions of Laws 1939, chapter 431, including the administration of any federal funds granted to the state to aid in the performance of any functions of the commissioner as specified in Laws 1939, chapter 431, and including the promulgation of rules making uniformly available medical care benefits to all recipients of public assistance, at such times as the federal government increases its participation in assistance expenditures for medical care to recipients of public assistance, the cost thereof to be borne in the same proportion as are grants of aid to said recipients.

(7) Establish and maintain any administrative units reasonably necessary for the performance of administrative functions common to all divisions of the department.

(8) Act as designated guardian of both the estate and the person of all the wards of the state of Minnesota, whether by operation of law or by an order of court, without any further act or proceeding whatever, except as to persons committed as mentally retarded. For children under the guardianship of the commissioner whose interests would be best served by adoptive placement, the commissioner may contract with a licensed child-placing agency to provide adoption services. A contract with a licensed child-placing agency must be designed to supplement existing county efforts and may not replace existing county programs, unless the replacement is agreed to by the county board and the appropriate exclusive bargaining representative or the commissioner has evidence that child placements of the county continue to be substantially below that of other counties. Funds encumbered and obligated under an agreement for a specific child shall remain available until the terms of the agreement are fulfilled or the agreement is terminated.

(9) Act as coordinating referral and informational center on requests for service for newly arrived immigrants coming to Minnesota.

(10) The specific enumeration of powers and duties as hereinabove set forth shall in no way be construed to be a limitation upon the general transfer of powers herein contained.

(11) Establish county, regional, or statewide schedules of maximum fees and charges which may be paid by county agencies for medical, dental, surgical, hospital, nursing and nursing home care and medicine and medical supplies under all programs of medical care provided by the state and for congregate living care under the income maintenance programs.

(12) Have the authority to conduct and administer experimental projects to test methods and procedures of administering assistance and services to recipients or potential recipients of public welfare. To carry out such experimental projects, it is further provided that the commissioner of human services is authorized to waive the enforcement of existing specific statutory program requirements, rules, and standards in one or more counties. The order establishing the waiver shall provide alternative methods and procedures of administration, shall not be in

conflict with the basic purposes, coverage, or benefits provided by law, and in no event shall the duration of a project exceed four years. It is further provided that no order establishing an experimental project as authorized by the provisions of this section shall become effective until the following conditions have been met:

(a) The secretary of health and human services of the United States has agreed, for the same project, to waive state plan requirements relative to statewide uniformity.

(b) A comprehensive plan, including estimated project costs, shall be approved by the legislative advisory commission and filed with the commissioner of administration.

(13) According to federal requirements, establish procedures to be followed by local welfare boards in creating citizen advisory committees, including procedures for selection of committee members.

(14) Allocate federal fiscal disallowances or sanctions which are based on quality control error rates for the aid to families with dependent children program formerly codified in sections 256.72 to 256.87, medical assistance, or food stamp program in the following manner:

(a) One-half of the total amount of the disallowance shall be borne by the county boards responsible for administering the programs. For the medical assistance and the AFDC program formerly codified in sections 256.72 to 256.87, disallowances shall be shared by each county board in the same proportion as that county's expenditures for the sanctioned program are to the total of all counties' expenditures for the AFDC program formerly codified in sections 256.72 to 256.87, and medical assistance programs. For the food stamp program, sanctions shall be shared by each county board, with 50 percent of the sanction being distributed to each county in the same proportion as that county's administrative costs for food stamps are to the total of all food stamp administrative costs for all counties, and 50 percent of the sanctions being distributed to each county in the same proportion as that county's value of food stamp benefits issued are to the total of all benefits issued for all counties. Each county shall pay its share of the disallowance to the state of Minnesota. When a county fails to pay the amount due hereunder, the commissioner may deduct the amount from reimbursement otherwise due the county, or the attorney general, upon the request of the commissioner, may institute civil action to recover the amount due.

(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (a), if the disallowance results from knowing noncompliance by one or more counties with a specific program instruction, and that knowing noncompliance is a matter of official county board record, the commissioner may require payment or recover from the county or counties, in the manner prescribed in paragraph (a), an amount equal to the portion of the total disallowance which resulted from the noncompliance, and may distribute the balance of the disallowance according to paragraph (a).

(15) Develop and implement special projects that maximize reimbursements and result in the recovery of money to the state. For the purpose of recovering state money, the commissioner may enter into contracts with third parties. Any recoveries that result from projects or contracts entered into under this paragraph shall be deposited in the state treasury and credited to a special account until the balance in the account reaches $1,000,000. When the balance in the account exceeds $1,000,000, the excess shall be transferred and credited to the general fund. All money in the account is appropriated to the commissioner for the purposes of this paragraph.

(16) Have the authority to make direct payments to facilities providing shelter to women and their children according to section 256D.05, subdivision 3. Upon the written request of a shelter facility that has been denied payments under section 256D.05, subdivision 3, the commissioner shall review all relevant evidence and make a determination within 30 days of the request for review regarding issuance of direct payments to the shelter facility. Failure to act within 30 days shall be considered a determination not to issue direct payments.

(17) Have the authority to establish and enforce the following county reporting requirements:

(a) The commissioner shall establish fiscal and statistical reporting requirements necessary to account for the expenditure of funds allocated to counties for human services programs. When establishing financial and statistical reporting requirements, the commissioner shall evaluate all reports, in consultation with the counties, to determine if the reports can be simplified or the number of reports can be reduced. 

(b) The county board shall submit monthly or quarterly reports to the department as required by the commissioner. Monthly reports are due no later than 15 working days after the end of the month. Quarterly reports are due no later than 30 calendar days after the end of the quarter, unless the commissioner determines that the deadline must be shortened to 20 calendar days to avoid jeopardizing compliance with federal deadlines or risking a loss of federal funding. Only reports that are complete, legible, and in the required format shall be accepted by the commissioner.

(c) If the required reports are not received by the deadlines established in clause (b), the commissioner may delay payments and withhold funds from the county board until the next reporting period. When the report is needed to account for the use of federal funds and the late report results in a reduction in federal funding, the commissioner shall withhold from the county boards with late reports an amount equal to the reduction in federal funding until full federal funding is received.

(d) A county board that submits reports that are late, illegible, incomplete, or not in the required format for two out of three consecutive reporting periods is considered noncompliant. When a county board is found to be noncompliant, the commissioner shall notify the county board of the reason the county board is considered noncompliant and request that the county board develop a corrective action plan stating how the county board plans to correct the problem. The corrective action plan must be submitted to the commissioner within 45 days after the date the county board received notice of noncompliance.

(e) The final deadline for fiscal reports or amendments to fiscal reports is one year after the date the report was originally due. If the commissioner does not receive a report by the final deadline, the county board forfeits the funding associated with the report for that reporting period and the county board must repay any funds associated with the report received for that reporting period.

(f) The commissioner may not delay payments, withhold funds, or require repayment under paragraph (c) or (e) if the county demonstrates that the commissioner failed to provide appropriate forms, guidelines, and technical assistance to enable the county to comply with the requirements. If the county board disagrees with an action taken by the commissioner under paragraph (c) or (e), the county board may appeal the action according to sections 14.57 to 14.69.

(g) Counties subject to withholding of funds under paragraph (c) or forfeiture or repayment of funds under paragraph (e) shall not reduce or withhold benefits or services to clients to cover costs incurred due to actions taken by the commissioner under paragraph (c) or (e).

(18) Allocate federal fiscal disallowances or sanctions for audit exceptions when federal fiscal disallowances or sanctions are based on a statewide random sample for the foster care program under title IV-E of the Social Security Act, United States Code, title 42, in direct proportion to each county's title IV-E foster care maintenance claim for that period.

(19) Be responsible for ensuring the detection, prevention, investigation, and resolution of fraudulent activities or behavior by applicants, recipients, and other participants in the human services programs administered by the department.

(20) Require county agencies to identify overpayments, establish claims, and utilize all available and cost-beneficial methodologies to collect and recover these overpayments in the human services programs administered by the department.

(21) Have the authority to administer a drug rebate program for drugs purchased pursuant to the prescription drug program established under section 256.955 after the beneficiary's satisfaction of any deductible established in the program. The commissioner shall require a rebate agreement from all manufacturers of covered drugs as defined in section 256B.0625, subdivision 13. Rebate agreements for prescription drugs delivered on or after July 1, 2002, must include rebates for individuals covered under the prescription drug program who are under 65 years of age. For each drug, the amount of the rebate shall be equal to the basic rebate as defined for purposes of the federal rebate program in United States Code, title 42, section 1396r-8(c)(1). This basic rebate shall be applied to single-source

and multiple-source drugs. The manufacturers must provide full payment within 30 days of receipt of the state invoice for the rebate within the terms and conditions used for the federal rebate program established pursuant to section 1927 of title XIX of the Social Security Act. The manufacturers must provide the commissioner with any information necessary to verify the rebate determined per drug. The rebate program shall utilize the terms and conditions used for the federal rebate program established pursuant to section 1927 of title XIX of the Social Security Act.

(22) Have the authority to administer the federal drug rebate program for drugs purchased under the medical assistance program as allowed by section 1927 of title XIX of the Social Security Act and according to the terms and conditions of section 1927. Rebates shall be collected for all drugs that have been dispensed or administered in an outpatient setting and that are from manufacturers who have signed a rebate agreement with the United States Department of Health and Human Services.

(22) (23) Operate the department's communication systems account established in Laws 1993, First Special Session chapter 1, article 1, section 2, subdivision 2, to manage shared communication costs necessary for the operation of the programs the commissioner supervises. A communications account may also be established for each regional treatment center which operates communications systems. Each account must be used to manage shared communication costs necessary for the operations of the programs the commissioner supervises. The commissioner may distribute the costs of operating and maintaining communication systems to participants in a manner that reflects actual usage. Costs may include acquisition, licensing, insurance, maintenance, repair, staff time and other costs as determined by the commissioner. Nonprofit organizations and state, county, and local government agencies involved in the operation of programs the commissioner supervises may participate in the use of the department's communications technology and share in the cost of operation. The commissioner may accept on behalf of the state any gift, bequest, devise or personal property of any kind, or money tendered to the state for any lawful purpose pertaining to the communication activities of the department. Any money received for this purpose must be deposited in the department's communication systems accounts. Money collected by the commissioner for the use of communication systems must be deposited in the state communication systems account and is appropriated to the commissioner for purposes of this section.

(23) (24) Receive any federal matching money that is made available through the medical assistance program for the consumer satisfaction survey. Any federal money received for the survey is appropriated to the commissioner for this purpose. The commissioner may expend the federal money received for the consumer satisfaction survey in either year of the biennium.

(24) (25) Incorporate cost reimbursement claims from First Call Minnesota into the federal cost reimbursement claiming processes of the department according to federal law, rule, and regulations. Any reimbursement received is appropriated to the commissioner and shall be disbursed to First Call Minnesota according to normal department payment schedules.

(25) (26) Develop recommended standards for foster care homes that address the components of specialized therapeutic services to be provided by foster care homes with those services.

Sec. 2. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256.955, subdivision 2b, is amended to read:

Subd. 2b. [ELIGIBILITY.] Effective July 1, 2002, an individual satisfying the following requirements and the requirements described in subdivision 2, paragraph (d), is eligible for the prescription drug program:

(1) is under 65 years of age; and

(2) is eligible as a qualified Medicare beneficiary according to section 256B.057, subdivision 3 or 3a, or is eligible under section 256B.057, subdivision 3 or 3a, and is also eligible for medical assistance or general assistance medical care with a spenddown as defined in section 256B.056, subdivision 5. 

Sec. 3. [256.956] [PURCHASING ALLIANCE STOP-LOSS FUND.]

Subdivision 1. [DEFINITIONS.] For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:

(a) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of human services.

(b) "Health plan" means a policy, contract, or certificate issued by a health plan company to a qualifying purchasing alliance. Any health plan issued to the members of a qualifying purchasing alliance must meet the requirements of chapter 62L.

(c) "Health plan company" means:

(1) a health carrier as defined under section 62A.011, subdivision 2;

(2) a community integrated service network operating under chapter 62N; or

(3) an accountable provider network operating under chapter 62T.

(d) "Qualifying employer" means an employer who:

(1) is a member of a qualifying purchasing alliance;

(2) has at least one employee but no more than ten employees or is a sole proprietor or farmer;

(3) did not offer employer-subsidized health care coverage to its employees for at least 12 months prior to joining the purchasing alliance; and

(4) is offering health coverage through the purchasing alliance to all employees who work at least 20 hours per week unless the employee is eligible for Medicare.

For purposes of this subdivision, "employer-subsidized health coverage" means health coverage for which the employer pays at least 50 percent of the cost of coverage for the employee.

(e) "Qualifying enrollee" means an employee of a qualifying employer or the employee's dependent covered by a health plan.

(f) "Qualifying purchasing alliance" means a purchasing alliance as defined in section 62T.01, subdivision 2, that:

(1) meets the requirements of chapter 62T;

(2) services a geographic area located in outstate Minnesota, excluding the city of Duluth; and

(3) is organized and operating before May 1, 2001.

The criteria used by the qualifying purchasing alliance for membership must be approved by the commissioner of health. A qualifying purchasing alliance may begin enrolling qualifying employers after July 1, 2001, with enrollment ending by December 31, 2003.

Subd. 2. [CREATION OF ACCOUNT.] A purchasing alliance stop-loss fund account is established in the general fund. The commissioner shall use the money to establish a stop-loss fund from which a health plan company may receive reimbursement for claims paid for qualifying enrollees. The account consists of money appropriated by the legislature. Money from the account must be used for the stop-loss fund. 

Subd. 3. [REIMBURSEMENT.] (a) A health plan company may receive reimbursement from the fund for 90 percent of the portion of the claim that exceeds $30,000 but not of the portion that exceeds $100,000 in a calendar year for a qualifying enrollee.

(b) Claims shall be reported and funds shall be distributed on a calendar-year basis. Claims shall be eligible for reimbursement only for the calendar year in which the claims were paid.

(c) Once claims paid on behalf of a qualifying enrollee reach $100,000 in a given calendar year, no further claims may be submitted for reimbursement on behalf of that enrollee in that calendar year.

Subd. 4. [REQUEST PROCESS.] (a) Each health plan company must submit a request for reimbursement from the fund on a form prescribed by the commissioner. Requests for payment must be submitted no later than April 1 following the end of the calendar year for which the reimbursement request is being made, beginning April 1, 2002.

(b) The commissioner may require a health plan company to submit claims data as needed in connection with the reimbursement request.

Subd. 5. [DISTRIBUTION.] (a) The commissioner shall calculate the total claims reimbursement amount for all qualifying health plan companies for the calendar year for which claims are being reported and shall distribute the stop-loss funds on an annual basis.

(b) In the event that the total amount requested for reimbursement by the health plan companies for a calendar year exceeds the funds available for distribution for claims paid by all health plan companies during the same calendar year, the commissioner shall provide for the pro rata distribution of the available funds. Each health plan company shall be eligible to receive only a proportionate amount of the available funds as the health plan company's total eligible claims paid compares to the total eligible claims paid by all health plan companies.

(c) In the event that funds available for distribution for claims paid by all health plan companies during a calendar year exceed the total amount requested for reimbursement by all health plan companies during the same calendar year, any excess funds shall be reallocated for distribution in the next calendar year.

Subd. 6. [DATA.] Upon the request of the commissioner, each health plan company shall furnish such data as the commissioner deems necessary to administer the fund. The commissioner may require that such data be submitted on a per enrollee, aggregate, or categorical basis. Any data submitted under this section shall be classified as private data or nonpublic data as defined in section 13.02.

Subd. 7. [DELEGATION.] The commissioner may delegate any or all of the commissioner's administrative duties to another state agency or to a private contractor.

Subd. 8. [REPORT.] The commissioner of commerce, in consultation with the office of rural health and the qualifying purchasing alliances, shall evaluate the extent to which the purchasing alliance stop-loss fund increases the availability of employer-subsidized health care coverage for residents residing in the geographic areas served by the qualifying purchasing alliances. A preliminary report must be submitted to the legislature by February 15, 2003, and a final report must be submitted by February 15, 2004.

Subd. 9. [SUNSET.] This section shall expire January 1, 2005.

Sec. 4. [256.958] [RETIRED DENTIST PROGRAM.]

Subdivision 1. [PROGRAM.] The commissioner of human services shall establish a program to reimburse a retired dentist for the dentist's license fee and for the cost of malpractice insurance in exchange for the dentist providing 100 hours of dental services on a volunteer basis within a 12-month period at a community dental clinic or a dental training clinic located at a Minnesota state college or university. 

Subd. 2. [DOCUMENTATION.] Upon completion of the required hours, the retired dentist shall submit to the commissioner the following:

(1) documentation of service provided;

(2) the cost of malpractice insurance for the 12-month period; and

(3) the cost of the license.

Subd. 3. [REIMBURSEMENT.] Upon receipt of the information described in subdivision 2, the commissioner shall provide reimbursement to the retired dentist for the cost of malpractice insurance for the previous 12-month period and the cost of the license.

Sec. 5. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256.9657, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [HOSPITAL SURCHARGE.] (a) Effective October 1, 1992, each Minnesota hospital except facilities of the federal Indian Health Service and regional treatment centers shall pay to the medical assistance account a surcharge equal to 1.4 percent of net patient revenues excluding net Medicare revenues reported by that provider to the health care cost information system according to the schedule in subdivision 4.

(b) Effective July 1, 1994, the surcharge under paragraph (a) is increased to 1.56 percent.

(c) Notwithstanding the Medicare cost finding and allowable cost principles, the hospital surcharge is not an allowable cost for purposes of rate setting under sections 256.9685 to 256.9695.

Sec. 6. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256.969, subdivision 2b, is amended to read:

Subd. 2b. [OPERATING PAYMENT RATES.] In determining operating payment rates for admissions occurring on or after the rate year beginning January 1, 1991, and every two years after, or more frequently as determined by the commissioner, the commissioner shall obtain operating data from an updated base year and, within the limits of available appropriations, establish operating payment rates per admission for each hospital based on the cost-finding methods and allowable costs of the Medicare program in effect during the base year. Rates under the general assistance medical care, medical assistance, and MinnesotaCare programs shall not be rebased to more current data on January 1, 1997. The base year operating payment rate per admission is standardized by the case mix index and adjusted by the hospital cost index, relative values, and disproportionate population adjustment. The cost and charge data used to establish operating rates shall only reflect inpatient services covered by medical assistance and shall not include property cost information and costs recognized in outlier payments.

Sec. 7. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256.969, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 26. [GREATER MINNESOTA PAYMENT ADJUSTMENT AFTER JUNE 30, 2001.] (a) For admissions occurring after June 30, 2001, the commissioner shall pay all medical assistance inpatient fee-for-service admissions for the diagnosis-related groups specified in paragraph (b) at hospitals located outside of the seven-county metropolitan area at the higher of:

(1) the hospital's current payment rate for the diagnostic category to which the diagnosis-related group belongs, exclusive of disproportionate population adjustments received under subdivision 9 and hospital payment adjustments received under subdivision 23; or

(2) the rate in clause (1) plus a proportion of the difference between the current average payment rate for that diagnostic category for hospitals located within the seven-county metropolitan area, exclusive of disproportionate population adjustments received under subdivision 9 and hospital payment adjustments received under subdivision 23, and the current rate in clause (1). This proportion shall be 12.5 percent for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2001, and shall increase by 12.5 percentage points for each of the next seven fiscal years, such that the proportion is 100 percent for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2008. 

(b) The reimbursement increases provided in paragraph (a) apply to the following diagnosis-related groups as they fall within the diagnostic categories:

(1) 370 C-section with complicating diagnosis;

(2) 371 C-section without complicating diagnosis;

(3) 372 vaginal delivery with complicating diagnosis;

(4) 373 vaginal delivery without complicating diagnosis;

(5) 386 extreme immaturity, weight greater than 1,500 grams;

(6) 388 full-term neonates with other problems;

(7) 390 prematurity without major problems;

(8) 391 normal newborn case;

(9) 385 neonate, died or transferred to another health care facility;

(10) 425 acute adjustment reaction and psychosocial dysfunctioning;

(11) 430 psychosis;

(12) 431 childhood mental disorders; and

(13) 164-167 appendectomy.

Sec. 8. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.04, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 1b. [CONTRACT FOR SERVICES FOR AMERICAN INDIAN CHILDREN.] Notwithstanding subdivision 1, the commissioner may contract with federally recognized Indian tribes with a reservation in Minnesota for the provision of early and periodic screening, diagnosis, and treatment administrative services for American Indian children, according to Code of Federal Regulations, title 42, section 441, subpart B, and Minnesota Rules, part 9505.1693 et seq., when the tribe chooses to provide such services. For purposes of this subdivision, "American Indian" has the meaning given to persons to whom services will be provided for in Code of Federal Regulations, title 42, section 36.12. Notwithstanding Minnesota Rules, part 9505.1748, subpart 1, the commissioner, the local agency, and the tribe may contract with any entity for the provision of early and periodic screening, diagnosis, and treatment administrative services.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 9. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.055, subdivision 3a, is amended to read:

Subd. 3a. [MFIP-S FAMILIES; FAMILIES ELIGIBLE UNDER PRIOR AFDC RULES.] (a) Beginning January 1, 1998, or on the date that MFIP-S is implemented in counties, medical assistance may be paid for a person receiving public assistance under the MFIP-S program. Beginning July 1, 2002, medical assistance may be paid for a person who would have been eligible, but for excess income or assets, under the state's AFDC plan in effect as of July 16, 1996, with the base AFDC standard increased by three percent effective July 1, 2000. 

(b) Beginning January 1, 1998, July 1, 2002, medical assistance may be paid for a person who would have been eligible for public assistance under the income and resource assets standards, or who would have been eligible but for excess income or assets, under the state's AFDC plan in effect as of July 16, 1996, as required by the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (PRWORA), Public Law Number 104-193 with the base AFDC rate increased by three percent effective July 1, 2000.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective July 1, 2002.

Sec. 10. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.056, subdivision 1a, is amended to read:

Subd. 1a. [INCOME AND ASSETS GENERALLY.] Unless specifically required by state law or rule or federal law or regulation, the methodologies used in counting income and assets to determine eligibility for medical assistance for persons whose eligibility category is based on blindness, disability, or age of 65 or more years, the methodologies for the supplemental security income program shall be used. Effective upon federal approval, for children eligible under section 256B.055, subdivision 12, or for home and community-based waiver services whose eligibility for medical assistance is determined without regard to parental income, child support payments, including any payments made by an obligor in satisfaction of or in addition to a temporary or permanent order for child support, social security payments, and other benefits for basic needs are not counted as income. For families and children, which includes all other eligibility categories, the methodologies under the state's AFDC plan in effect as of July 16, 1996, as required by the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (PRWORA), Public Law Number 104-193, shall be used. Effective upon federal approval, in-kind contributions to, and payments made on behalf of, a recipient, by an obligor, in satisfaction of or in addition to a temporary or permanent order for child support or maintenance, shall be considered income to the recipient. For these purposes, a "methodology" does not include an asset or income standard, or accounting method, or method of determining effective dates.

Sec. 11. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.056, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3. [ASSET LIMITATIONS.] To be eligible for medical assistance, a person must not individually own more than $3,000 in assets, or if a member of a household with two family members, husband and wife, or parent and child, the household must not own more than $6,000 in assets, plus $200 for each additional legal dependent. In addition to these maximum amounts, an eligible individual or family may accrue interest on these amounts, but they must be reduced to the maximum at the time of an eligibility redetermination. The accumulation of the clothing and personal needs allowance according to section 256B.35 must also be reduced to the maximum at the time of the eligibility redetermination. The value of assets that are not considered in determining eligibility for medical assistance is the value of those assets excluded under the AFDC state plan as of July 16, 1996, as required by the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (PRWORA), Public Law Number 104-193, for families and children, and the supplemental security income program for aged, blind, and disabled persons, with the following exceptions:

(a) Household goods and personal effects are not considered.

(b) Capital and operating assets of a trade or business that the local agency determines are necessary to the person's ability to earn an income are not considered.

(c) Motor vehicles are excluded to the same extent excluded by the supplemental security income program.

(d) Assets designated as burial expenses are excluded to the same extent excluded by the supplemental security income program.

(e) Effective upon federal approval, for a person who no longer qualifies as an employed person with a disability due to loss of earnings, assets allowed while eligible for medical assistance under section 256B.057, subdivision 9, are not considered for 12 months, beginning with the first month of ineligibility as an employed person with a disability, to the extent that the person's total assets remain within the allowed limits of section 256B.057, subdivision 9, paragraph (b). 

Sec. 12. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.056, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4. [INCOME.] (a) To be eligible for medical assistance, a person eligible under section 256B.055, subdivision subdivisions 7, 7a, and 12, not receiving supplemental security income program payments, and may have income up to the following specified percentages of the federal poverty guidelines for the family size effective on April 1 of each year:

(1) 80 percent, effective July 1, 2002;

(2) 90 percent, effective July 1, 2003;

(3) 100 percent, effective July 1, 2004.

Increases in benefits under title II of the Social Security Act shall not be counted as income for purposes of this subdivision until the first day of the second full month following publication of the change in the federal poverty guidelines.

(b) To be eligible for medical assistance, families and children may have an income up to 133-1/3 percent of the AFDC income standard in effect under the July 16, 1996, AFDC state plan. Effective July 1, 2000, the base AFDC standard in effect on July 16, 1996, shall be increased by three percent. Effective January 1, 2000, and each successive January, recipients of supplemental security income may have an income up to the supplemental security income standard in effect on that date.

(c) Effective July 1, 2002, to be eligible for medical assistance, families and children may have an income up to 100 percent of the federal poverty guidelines for the family size effective on April 1 of each year.

(d) In computing income to determine eligibility of persons under paragraphs (a) to (c) who are not residents of long-term care facilities, the commissioner shall disregard increases in income as required by Public Law Numbers 94-566, section 503; 99-272; and 99-509. Veterans aid and attendance benefits and Veterans Administration unusual medical expense payments are considered income to the recipient.

Sec. 13. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.056, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5. [EXCESS INCOME.] A person who has excess income is eligible for medical assistance if the person has expenses for medical care that are more than the amount of the person's excess income, computed by deducting incurred medical expenses from the excess income to reduce the excess to the income standard specified in subdivision 4, except that if federal authorization to use the standard in subdivision 4 is not obtained, the medically needy standard for purposes of a spenddown shall be 133 and 1/3 percent of the AFDC income standard in effect under the July 16, 1996, AFDC state plan, increased by three percent. The person shall elect to have the medical expenses deducted at the beginning of a one-month budget period or at the beginning of a six-month budget period. The commissioner shall allow persons eligible for assistance on a one-month spenddown basis under this subdivision to elect to pay the monthly spenddown amount in advance of the month of eligibility to the state agency in order to maintain eligibility on a continuous basis. If the recipient does not pay the spenddown amount on or before the 20th of the month, the recipient is ineligible for this option for the following month. The local agency shall code the Medicaid Management Information System (MMIS) to indicate that the recipient has elected this option. The state agency shall convey recipient eligibility information relative to the collection of the spenddown to providers through the Electronic Verification System (EVS). A recipient electing advance payment must pay the state agency the monthly spenddown amount on or before the 20th of the month in order to be eligible for this option in the following month.

Sec. 14. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.057, subdivision 9, is amended to read:

Subd. 9. [EMPLOYED PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES.] (a) Medical assistance may be paid for a person who is employed and who:

(1) meets the definition of disabled under the supplemental security income program; 

(2) is at least 16 but less than 65 years of age;

(3) meets the asset limits in paragraph (b); and

(4) pays a premium, if required, under paragraph (c).

Any spousal income or assets shall be disregarded for purposes of eligibility and premium determinations.

(b) For purposes of determining eligibility under this subdivision, a person's assets must not exceed $20,000, excluding:

(1) all assets excluded under section 256B.056;

(2) retirement accounts, including individual accounts, 401(k) plans, 403(b) plans, Keogh plans, and pension plans; and

(3) medical expense accounts set up through the person's employer.

(c) A person whose earned and unearned income is equal to or greater than 200 100 percent of federal poverty guidelines for the applicable family size must pay a premium to be eligible for medical assistance under this subdivision. The premium shall be equal to ten percent of based on the person's gross earned and unearned income above 200 percent of federal poverty guidelines for and the applicable family size up to the cost of coverage, using a sliding fee scale established by the commissioner which begins at one percent of income at 100 percent of the federal poverty guidelines and gradually increases to 7.5 percent of income for those with incomes at or above 300 percent of the federal poverty guidelines.

(d) A person's eligibility and premium shall be determined by the local county agency. Premiums must be paid to the commissioner. All premiums are dedicated to the commissioner.

(e) Any required premium shall be determined at application and redetermined annually at recertification or when a change in income or family size occurs.

(f) Premium payment is due upon notification from the commissioner of the premium amount required. Premiums may be paid in installments at the discretion of the commissioner.

(g) Nonpayment of the premium shall result in denial or termination of medical assistance unless the person demonstrates good cause for nonpayment. Good cause exists if the requirements specified in Minnesota Rules, part 9506.0040, subpart 7, items B to D, are met. Nonpayment shall include payment with a returned, refused, or dishonored instrument. The commissioner may require a guaranteed form of payment as the only means to replace a returned, refused, or dishonored instrument.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective September 1, 2001.

Sec. 15. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.057, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 10. [CERTAIN PERSONS NEEDING TREATMENT FOR BREAST OR CERVICAL CANCER.] (a) Medical assistance may be paid for a person who:

(1) has been screened for breast or cervical cancer by the Minnesota breast and cervical cancer control program, and program funds have been used to pay for the person's screening;

(2) according to the person's treating health professional, needs treatment, including diagnostic services necessary to determine the extent and proper course of treatment, for breast or cervical cancer, including precancerous conditions and early stage cancer; 

(3) meets the income eligibility guidelines for the Minnesota breast and cervical cancer control program;

(4) is under age 65;

(5) is not otherwise eligible for medical assistance under United States Code, title 42, section 1396(a)(10)(A)(i); and

(6) is not otherwise covered under creditable coverage, as defined under United States Code, title 42, section 300gg(c).

(b) Medical assistance provided for an eligible person under this subdivision shall be limited to services provided during the period that the person receives treatment for breast or cervical cancer.

(c) A person meeting the criteria in paragraph (a) is eligible for medical assistance without meeting the eligibility criteria relating to income and assets in section 256B.056, subdivisions 1a to 5b.

Sec. 16. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, subdivision 3b, is amended to read:

Subd. 3b. [TELEMEDICINE CONSULTATIONS.] (a) Medical assistance covers telemedicine consultations. Telemedicine consultations must be made via two-way, interactive video or store-and-forward technology. Store-and-forward technology includes telemedicine consultations that do not occur in real time via synchronous transmissions, and that do not require a face-to-face encounter with the patient for all or any part of any such telemedicine consultation. The patient record must include a written opinion from the consulting physician providing the telemedicine consultation. A communication between two physicians that consists solely of a telephone conversation is not a telemedicine consultation. Coverage is limited to three telemedicine consultations per recipient per calendar week. Telemedicine consultations shall be paid at the full allowable rate.

(b) This subdivision expires July 1, 2001.

Sec. 17. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 5a. [INTENSIVE EARLY INTERVENTION BEHAVIOR THERAPY SERVICES FOR CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS.] (a) [COVERAGE.] Medical assistance covers home-based intensive early intervention behavior therapy for children with autism spectrum disorders. Children with autism spectrum disorder, and their custodial parents or foster parents, may access other covered services to treat autism spectrum disorder, and are not required to receive intensive early intervention behavior therapy services under this subdivision. Intensive early intervention behavior therapy does not include coverage for services to treat developmental disorders of language, early onset psychosis, Rett's disorder, selective mutism, social anxiety disorder, stereotypic movement disorder, dementia, obsessive compulsive disorder, schizoid personality disorder, avoidant personality disorder, or reactive attachment disorder. If a child with autism spectrum disorder is diagnosed to have one or more of these conditions, intensive early intervention behavior therapy includes coverage only for services necessary to treat the autism spectrum disorder.

(b) [PURPOSE OF INTENSIVE EARLY INTERVENTION BEHAVIOR THERAPY SERVICES (IEIBTS).] The purpose of IEIBTS is to improve the child's behavioral functioning, to prevent development of challenging behaviors, to eliminate autistic behaviors, to reduce the risk of out-of-home placement, and to establish independent typical functioning in language and social behavior. The procedures used to accomplish these goals are based upon research in applied behavior analysis.

(c) [ELIGIBLE CHILDREN.] A child is eligible to initiate IEIBTS if, the child meets the additional eligibility criteria in paragraph (d) and in a diagnostic assessment by a mental health professional who is not under the employ of the service provider, the child:

(1) is found to have an autism spectrum disorder; 

(2) has a current IQ of either untestable, or at least 30;

(3) if nonverbal, initiated behavior therapy by 42 months of age;

(4) if verbal, initiated behavior therapy by 48 months of age; or

(5) if having an IQ of at least 50, initiated behavior therapy by 84 months of age.

To continue in IEIBTS, at least one of the child's custodial parents or foster parents must participate in an average of at least five hours of documented behavior therapy per week for six months, and consistently implement behavior therapy recommendations 24 hours a day. To continue after six-month individualized treatment plan (ITP) reviews, the child must show documented progress toward mastery of six-month benchmark behavior objectives. The maximum number of months during which services may be billed is 54. If significant progress towards treatment goals has not been achieved after 24 months of treatment, treatment must be discontinued.

(d) [ADDITIONAL ELIGIBLITY CRITERIA.] A child is eligible to initiate IEIBTS if:

(1) in medical and diagnostic assessments by medical and mental health professionals, it is determined that the child does not have severe or profound mental retardation;

(2) an accurate assessment of the child's hearing has been performed, including audiometry if the brain stem auditory evokes response;

(3) a blood lead test has been performed prior to initiation of treatment; and

(4) an EEG or neurologic evaluation is done, prior to initiation of treatment, if the child has a history of staring spells or developmental regression.

(e) [COVERED SERVICES.] The focus of IEIBTS must be to treat the principal diagnostic features of the autism spectrum disorder. All IEIBTS must be delivered by a team of practitioners under the consistent supervision of a single clinical supervisor. A mental health professional must develop the ITP for IEIBTS. The ITP must include six-month benchmark behavior objectives. All behavior therapy must be based upon research in applied behavior analysis, with an emphasis upon positive reinforcement of carefully task-analyzed skills for optimum rates of progress. All behavior therapy must be consistently applied and generalized throughout the 24-hour day and seven-day week by all of the child's regular care providers. When placing the child in school activities, a majority of the peers must have no mental health diagnosis, and the child must have sufficient social skills to succeed with 80 percent of the school activities. Reactive consequences, such as redirection, correction, positive practice, or time-out, must be used only when necessary to improve the child's success when proactive procedures alone have not been effective. IEIBTS must be delivered by a team of behavior therapy practitioners who are employed under the direction of the same agency. The team may deliver up to 200 billable hours per year of direct clinical supervisor services, up to 750 billable hours per year of senior behavior therapist services, and up to 1,800 billable hours per year of direct behavior therapist services. A one-hour clinical review meeting for the child, parents, and staff must be scheduled 50 weeks a year, at which behavior therapy is reviewed and planned. At least one-quarter of the annual clinical supervisor billable hours shall consist of on-site clinical meeting time. At least one-half of the annual senior behavior therapist billable hours shall consist of direct services to the child or parents. All of the behavioral therapist billable hours shall consist of direct on-site services to the child or parents. None of the senior behavior therapist billable hours or behavior therapist billable hours shall consist of clinical meeting time. If there is any regression of the autistic spectrum disorder after 12 months of therapy, a neurologic consultation must be performed.

(f) [PROVIDER QUALIFICATIONS.] The provider agency must be capable of delivering consistent applied behavior analysis (ABA)-based behavior therapy in the home. The site director of the agency must be a mental health professional certified as a behavior analyst by the Association for Behavior Analysis. Each clinical supervisor must be certified as a behavior analyst by the Association for Behavior Analysis. 

(g) [SUPERVISION REQUIREMENTS.] (1) Each behavior therapist practitioner must be continuously supervised while in the home until the practitioner has mastered competencies for independent practice. Each behavior therapist must have mastered three credits of academic content and practice in an ABA sequence at an accredited university. A college degree or minimum hours of experience are not required. Each behavior therapist must continue training through weekly direct observation by the senior behavior therapist, through demonstrated performance in clinical meetings with the clinical supervisor, and annual training in ABA.

(2) Each senior behavior therapist practitioner must have mastered the senior behavior therapy competencies, completed one year of practice as a behavior therapist, and six months of co-therapy training with another senior behavior therapist or have an equivalent amount of experience in ABA. Each senior behavior therapist must have mastered 12 credits of academic content and practice in an ABA sequence at an accredited university. Each senior behavior therapist must continue training through demonstrated performance in clinical meetings with the clinical supervisor, and annual training in ABA.

(3) Each clinical supervisor practitioner must have mastered the clinical supervisor and family consultation competencies, completed two years of practice as a senior behavior therapist and one year of co-therapy training with another clinical supervisor, or equivalent experience in ABA. Each clinical supervisor must continue training through annual training in ABA.

(h) [PLACE OF SERVICE.] IEIBTS are provided primarily in the child's home and community. Services may be provided in the child's natural school or preschool classroom, home of a relative, natural recreational setting, or day care.

(i) [PRIOR AUTHORIZATION REQUIREMENTS.] Prior authorization shall be required for services provided after 200 hours of clinical supervisor, 750 hours of senior behavior therapist, or 1,800 hours of behavior therapist services per year.

(j) [PAYMENT RATES.] The following payment rates apply:

(1) for an IEIBTS clinical supervisor practitioner under supervision of a mental health professional, the lower of the submitted charge or $137 per hour unit;

(2) for an IEIBTS senior behavior therapist practitioner under supervision of a mental health professional, the lower of the submitted charge or $56 per hour unit; or

(3) for an IEIBTS behavior therapist practitioner under supervision of a mental health professional, the lower of the submitted charge or $19 per hour unit.

An IEIBTS practitioner may receive payment for travel time which exceeds 50 minutes one-way. The maximum payment allowed will be $0.51 per minute for up to a maximum of 300 hours per year.

For any week during which the above charges are made to medical assistance, payments for the following services are excluded: supervising mental health professional hours and personal care attendant, home-based mental health, family-community support, or mental health behavioral aide hours.

(k) [REPORT.] The commissioner shall collect evidence of the effectiveness of intensive early intervention behavior therapy services and present a report to the legislature by July 1, 2006.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective January 1, 2002.

Sec. 18. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, subdivision 13, is amended to read:

Subd. 13. [DRUGS.] (a) Medical assistance covers drugs, except for fertility drugs when specifically used to enhance fertility, if prescribed by a licensed practitioner and dispensed by a licensed pharmacist, by a physician enrolled in the medical assistance program as a dispensing physician, or by a physician or a nurse practitioner

employed by or under contract with a community health board as defined in section 145A.02, subdivision 5, for the purposes of communicable disease control. The commissioner, after receiving recommendations from professional medical associations and professional pharmacist associations, shall designate a formulary committee to advise the commissioner on the names of drugs for which payment is made, recommend a system for reimbursing providers on a set fee or charge basis rather than the present system, and develop methods encouraging use of generic drugs when they are less expensive and equally effective as trademark drugs. The formulary committee shall consist of nine members, four of whom shall be physicians who are not employed by the department of human services, and a majority of whose practice is for persons paying privately or through health insurance, three of whom shall be pharmacists who are not employed by the department of human services, and a majority of whose practice is for persons paying privately or through health insurance, a consumer representative, and a nursing home representative. Committee members shall serve three-year terms and shall serve without compensation. Members may be reappointed once.

(b) The commissioner shall establish a drug formulary. Its establishment and publication shall not be subject to the requirements of the Administrative Procedure Act, but the formulary committee shall review and comment on the formulary contents. The formulary committee shall review and recommend drugs which require prior authorization. The formulary committee may recommend drugs for prior authorization directly to the commissioner, as long as opportunity for public input is provided. Prior authorization may be requested by the commissioner based on medical and clinical criteria before certain drugs are eligible for payment. Before a drug may be considered for prior authorization at the request of the commissioner:

(1) the drug formulary committee must develop criteria to be used for identifying drugs; the development of these criteria is not subject to the requirements of chapter 14, but the formulary committee shall provide opportunity for public input in developing criteria;

(2) the drug formulary committee must hold a public forum and receive public comment for an additional 15 days; and

(3) the commissioner must provide information to the formulary committee on the impact that placing the drug on prior authorization will have on the quality of patient care and information regarding whether the drug is subject to clinical abuse or misuse. Prior authorization may be required by the commissioner before certain formulary drugs are eligible for payment. The formulary shall not include:

(i) drugs or products for which there is no federal funding;

(ii) over-the-counter drugs, except for antacids, acetaminophen, family planning products, aspirin, insulin, products for the treatment of lice, vitamins for adults with documented vitamin deficiencies, vitamins for children under the age of seven and pregnant or nursing women, and any other over-the-counter drug identified by the commissioner, in consultation with the drug formulary committee, as necessary, appropriate, and cost-effective for the treatment of certain specified chronic diseases, conditions or disorders, and this determination shall not be subject to the requirements of chapter 14;

(iii) anorectics, except that medically necessary anorectics shall be covered for a recipient previously diagnosed as having pickwickian syndrome and currently diagnosed as having diabetes and being morbidly obese;

(iv) drugs for which medical value has not been established; and

(v) drugs from manufacturers who have not signed a rebate agreement with the Department of Health and Human Services pursuant to section 1927 of title XIX of the Social Security Act.

The commissioner shall publish conditions for prohibiting payment for specific drugs after considering the formulary committee's recommendations. An honorarium of $100 per meeting and reimbursement for mileage shall be paid to each committee member in attendance. 

(c) The basis for determining the amount of payment shall be the lower of the actual acquisition costs of the drugs plus a fixed dispensing fee; the maximum allowable cost set by the federal government or by the commissioner plus the fixed dispensing fee; or the usual and customary price charged to the public. The pharmacy dispensing fee shall be $3.65, except that the dispensing fee for intravenous solutions which must be compounded by the pharmacist shall be $8 per bag, $14 per bag for cancer chemotherapy products, and $30 per bag for total parenteral nutritional products dispensed in one liter quantities, or $44 per bag for total parenteral nutritional products dispensed in quantities greater than one liter. Actual acquisition cost includes quantity and other special discounts except time and cash discounts. The actual acquisition cost of a drug shall be estimated by the commissioner, at average wholesale price minus nine percent, except that where a drug has had its wholesale price reduced as a result of the actions of the National Association of Medicaid Fraud Control Units, the estimated actual acquisition cost shall be the reduced average wholesale price, without the nine percent deduction. The maximum allowable cost of a multisource drug may be set by the commissioner and it shall be comparable to, but no higher than, the maximum amount paid by other third-party payors in this state who have maximum allowable cost programs. The commissioner shall set maximum allowable costs for multisource drugs that are not on the federal upper limit list as described in United States Code, title 42, chapter 7, section 1396r-8(e), the Social Security Act, and Code of Federal Regulations, title 42, part 447, section 447.332. Establishment of the amount of payment for drugs shall not be subject to the requirements of the Administrative Procedure Act. An additional dispensing fee of $.30 may be added to the dispensing fee paid to pharmacists for legend drug prescriptions dispensed to residents of long-term care facilities when a unit dose blister card system, approved by the department, is used. Under this type of dispensing system, the pharmacist must dispense a 30-day supply of drug. The National Drug Code (NDC) from the drug container used to fill the blister card must be identified on the claim to the department. The unit dose blister card containing the drug must meet the packaging standards set forth in Minnesota Rules, part 6800.2700, that govern the return of unused drugs to the pharmacy for reuse. The pharmacy provider will be required to credit the department for the actual acquisition cost of all unused drugs that are eligible for reuse. Over-the-counter medications must be dispensed in the manufacturer's unopened package. The commissioner may permit the drug clozapine to be dispensed in a quantity that is less than a 30-day supply. Whenever a generically equivalent product is available, payment shall be on the basis of the actual acquisition cost of the generic drug, unless the prescriber specifically indicates "dispense as written - brand necessary" on the prescription as required by section 151.21, subdivision 2.

(d) For purposes of this subdivision, "multisource drugs" means covered outpatient drugs, excluding innovator multisource drugs for which there are two or more drug products, which:

(1) are related as therapeutically equivalent under the Food and Drug Administration's most recent publication of "Approved Drug Products with Therapeutic Equivalence Evaluations";

(2) are pharmaceutically equivalent and bioequivalent as determined by the Food and Drug Administration; and

(3) are sold or marketed in Minnesota.

"Innovator multisource drug" means a multisource drug that was originally marketed under an original new drug application approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

(e) The basis for determining the amount of payment for drugs administered in an outpatient setting shall be the lower of the usual and customary cost submitted by the provider; the average wholesale price minus five percent; or the maximum allowable cost set by the federal government under United States Code, title 42, chapter 7, section 1396r-8(e) and Code of Federal Regulations, title 42, section 447.332, or by the commissioner under paragraph (c).

Sec. 19. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, subdivision 13a, is amended to read:

Subd. 13a. [DRUG UTILIZATION REVIEW BOARD.] A nine-member drug utilization review board is established. The board is comprised of at least three but no more than four licensed physicians actively engaged in the practice of medicine in Minnesota; at least three licensed pharmacists actively engaged in the practice of

pharmacy in Minnesota; and one consumer representative; the remainder to be made up of health care professionals who are licensed in their field and have recognized knowledge in the clinically appropriate prescribing, dispensing, and monitoring of covered outpatient drugs. The board shall be staffed by an employee of the department who shall serve as an ex officio nonvoting member of the board. The members of the board shall be appointed by the commissioner and shall serve three-year terms. The members shall be selected from lists submitted by professional associations. The commissioner shall appoint the initial members of the board for terms expiring as follows: three members for terms expiring June 30, 1996; three members for terms expiring June 30, 1997; and three members for terms expiring June 30, 1998. Members may be reappointed once. The board shall annually elect a chair from among the members.

The commissioner shall, with the advice of the board:

(1) implement a medical assistance retrospective and prospective drug utilization review program as required by United States Code, title 42, section 1396r-8(g)(3);

(2) develop and implement the predetermined criteria and practice parameters for appropriate prescribing to be used in retrospective and prospective drug utilization review;

(3) develop, select, implement, and assess interventions for physicians, pharmacists, and patients that are educational and not punitive in nature;

(4) establish a grievance and appeals process for physicians and pharmacists under this section;

(5) publish and disseminate educational information to physicians and pharmacists regarding the board and the review program;

(6) adopt and implement procedures designed to ensure the confidentiality of any information collected, stored, retrieved, assessed, or analyzed by the board, staff to the board, or contractors to the review program that identifies individual physicians, pharmacists, or recipients;

(7) establish and implement an ongoing process to (i) receive public comment regarding drug utilization review criteria and standards, and (ii) consider the comments along with other scientific and clinical information in order to revise criteria and standards on a timely basis; and

(8) adopt any rules necessary to carry out this section.

The board may establish advisory committees. The commissioner may contract with appropriate organizations to assist the board in carrying out the board's duties. The commissioner may enter into contracts for services to develop and implement a retrospective and prospective review program.

The board shall report to the commissioner annually on the date the Drug Utilization Review Annual Report is due to the Health Care Financing Administration. This report is to cover the preceding federal fiscal year. The commissioner shall make the report available to the public upon request. The report must include information on the activities of the board and the program; the effectiveness of implemented interventions; administrative costs; and any fiscal impact resulting from the program. An honorarium of $50 $100 per meeting and reimbursement for mileage shall be paid to each board member in attendance.

Sec. 20. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, subdivision 17, is amended to read:

Subd. 17. [TRANSPORTATION COSTS.] (a) Medical assistance covers transportation costs incurred solely for obtaining emergency medical care or transportation costs incurred by nonambulatory persons in obtaining emergency or nonemergency medical care when paid directly to an ambulance company, common carrier, or other recognized providers of transportation services. For the purpose of this subdivision, a person who is incapable of transport by taxicab or bus shall be considered to be nonambulatory. 

(b) Medical assistance covers special transportation, as defined in Minnesota Rules, part 9505.0315, subpart 1, item F, if the provider receives and maintains a current physician's order by the recipient's attending physician certifying that the recipient has a physical or mental impairment that would prohibit the recipient from safely accessing and using a bus, taxi, other commercial transportation, or private automobile. Special transportation includes driver-assisted service to eligible individuals. Driver-assisted service includes passenger pickup at and return to the individual's residence or place of business, assistance with admittance of the individual to the medical facility, and assistance in passenger securement or in securing of wheelchairs or stretchers in the vehicle. The commissioner shall establish maximum medical assistance reimbursement rates for special transportation services for persons who need a wheelchair lift accessible van or stretcher-equipped vehicle and for those who do not need a wheelchair lift accessible van or stretcher-equipped vehicle. The average of these two rates per trip must not exceed $15 for the base rate and $1.20 $1.50 per mile. Special transportation provided to nonambulatory ambulatory persons who do not need a wheelchair lift van or stretcher-equipped vehicle, may be reimbursed at a lower rate than special transportation provided to persons who need a wheelchair lift van or stretcher-equipped vehicle.

Sec. 21. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, subdivision 17a, is amended to read:

Subd. 17a. [PAYMENT FOR AMBULANCE SERVICES.] Effective for services rendered on or after July 1, 1999 2001, medical assistance payments for ambulance services shall be increased by five percent paid at the greater of: (1) the medical assistance reimbursement rate in effect on June 30, 2000; or (2) the current Medicare reimbursement rate for ambulance services.

Sec. 22. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, subdivision 18a, is amended to read:

Subd. 18a. [PAYMENT FOR MEALS AND LODGING ACCESS TO MEDICAL SERVICES.] (a) Medical assistance reimbursement for meals for persons traveling to receive medical care may not exceed $5.50 for breakfast, $6.50 for lunch, or $8 for dinner.

(b) Medical assistance reimbursement for lodging for persons traveling to receive medical care may not exceed $50 per day unless prior authorized by the local agency.

(c) Medical assistance direct mileage reimbursement to the eligible person or the eligible person's driver may not exceed 20 cents per mile.

(d) Medical assistance covers oral language interpreter services when provided by an enrolled health care provider during the course of providing a direct, person-to-person covered health care service to an enrolled recipient with limited English proficiency.

Sec. 23. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, subdivision 30, is amended to read:

Subd. 30. [OTHER CLINIC SERVICES.] (a) Medical assistance covers rural health clinic services, federally qualified health center services, nonprofit community health clinic services, public health clinic services, and the services of a clinic meeting the criteria established in rule by the commissioner. Rural health clinic services and federally qualified health center services mean services defined in United States Code, title 42, section 1396d(a)(2)(B) and (C). Payment for rural health clinic and federally qualified health center services shall be made according to applicable federal law and regulation.

(b) A federally qualified health center that is beginning initial operation shall submit an estimate of budgeted costs and visits for the initial reporting period in the form and detail required by the commissioner. A federally qualified health center that is already in operation shall submit an initial report using actual costs and visits for the initial reporting period. Within 90 days of the end of its reporting period, a federally qualified health center shall submit, in the form and detail required by the commissioner, a report of its operations, including allowable costs actually incurred for the period and the actual number of visits for services furnished during the period, and other information required by the commissioner. Federally qualified health centers that file Medicare cost reports shall provide the commissioner with a copy of the most recent Medicare cost report filed with the Medicare program intermediary for the reporting year which support the costs claimed on their cost report to the state. 

(c) In order to continue cost-based payment under the medical assistance program according to paragraphs (a) and (b), a federally qualified health center or rural health clinic must apply for designation as an essential community provider within six months of final adoption of rules by the department of health according to section 62Q.19, subdivision 7. For those federally qualified health centers and rural health clinics that have applied for essential community provider status within the six-month time prescribed, medical assistance payments will continue to be made according to paragraphs (a) and (b) for the first three years after application. For federally qualified health centers and rural health clinics that either do not apply within the time specified above or who have had essential community provider status for three years, medical assistance payments for health services provided by these entities shall be according to the same rates and conditions applicable to the same service provided by health care providers that are not federally qualified health centers or rural health clinics.

(d) Effective July 1, 1999, the provisions of paragraph (c) requiring a federally qualified health center or a rural health clinic to make application for an essential community provider designation in order to have cost-based payments made according to paragraphs (a) and (b) no longer apply.

(e) Effective January 1, 2000, payments made according to paragraphs (a) and (b) shall be limited to the cost phase-out schedule of the Balanced Budget Act of 1997.

(f) Effective January 1, 2001, each federally qualified health center and rural health clinic may elect to be paid either under the prospective payment system established in United States Code, title 42, section 1396a, paragraph (a) or under an alternative payment methodology consistent with the requirements of United States Code, title 42, section 1392a, paragraph (a) and approved by the health care financing administration. The alternative payment methodology shall be 100 percent of cost as determined according to Medicare cost principles.

Sec. 24. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, subdivision 34, is amended to read:

Subd. 34. [INDIAN HEALTH SERVICES FACILITIES.] Medical assistance payments and MinnesotaCare payments to facilities of the Indian health service and facilities operated by a tribe or tribal organization under funding authorized by United States Code, title 25, sections 450f to 450n, or title III of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, Public Law Number 93-638, for enrollees who are eligible for federal financial participation, shall be at the option of the facility in accordance with the rate published by the United States Assistant Secretary for Health under the authority of United States Code, title 42, sections 248(a) and 249(b). General assistance medical care payments to facilities of the Indian health services and facilities operated by a tribe or tribal organization for the provision of outpatient medical care services billed after June 30, 1990, must be in accordance with the general assistance medical care rates paid for the same services when provided in a facility other than a facility of the Indian health service or a facility operated by a tribe or tribal organization. MinnesotaCare payments for enrollees who are not eligible for federal financial participation at facilities of the Indian Health Service and facilities operated by a tribe or tribal organization for the provision of outpatient medical services must be in accordance with the medical assistance rates paid for the same services when provided in a facility other than a facility of the Indian Health Service or a facility operated by a tribe or tribal organization.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 25. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0635, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [INCREASED EMPLOYMENT.] Beginning January 1, 1998 (a) Until June 30, 2002, medical assistance may be paid for persons who received MFIP-S or medical assistance for families and children in at least three of six months preceding the month in which the person became ineligible for MFIP-S or medical assistance, if the ineligibility was due to an increase in hours of employment or employment income or due to the loss of an earned income disregard. In addition, to receive continued assistance under this section, persons who received medical assistance for families and children but did not receive MFIP-S must have had income less than or equal to the assistance standard for their family size under the state's AFDC plan in effect as of July 16, 1996, as required by the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (PRWORA), Public Law Number 104-193, increased by three percent effective July 1, 2000, at the time medical assistance eligibility began.

A person who is eligible for extended medical assistance is entitled to six months of assistance without reapplication, unless the assistance unit ceases to include a dependent child. For a person under 21 years of age, medical assistance may not be discontinued within the six-month period of extended eligibility until it has been determined that the person is not otherwise eligible for medical assistance. Medical assistance may be continued for an additional six months if the person meets all requirements for the additional six months, according to title XIX of the Social Security Act, as amended by section 303 of the Family Support Act of 1988, Public Law Number 100-485.

(b) Beginning July 1, 2002, medical assistance for families and children may be paid for persons who were eligible under section 256B.055, subdivision 3a, paragraph (b), in at least three of six months preceding the month in which the person became ineligible under that section if the ineligibility was due to an increase in hours of employment or employment income or due to the loss of an earned income disregard. A person who is eligible for extended medical assistance is entitled to six months of assistance without reapplication, unless the assistance unit ceases to include a dependent child, except medical assistance may not be discontinued for that dependent child under 21 years of age within the six-month period of extended eligibility until it has been determined that the person is not otherwise eligible for medical assistance. Medical assistance may be continued for an additional six months if the person meets all requirements for the additional six months, according to title XIX of the Social Security Act, as amended by section 303 of the Family Support Act of 1988, Public Law Number 100-485.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective July 1, 2001.

Sec. 26. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0635, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [INCREASED CHILD OR SPOUSAL SUPPORT.] Beginning January 1, 1998 (a) Until June 30, 2002, medical assistance may be paid for persons who received MFIP-S or medical assistance for families and children in at least three of the six months preceding the month in which the person became ineligible for MFIP-S or medical assistance, if the ineligibility was the result of the collection of child or spousal support under part D of title IV of the Social Security Act. In addition, to receive continued assistance under this section, persons who received medical assistance for families and children but did not receive MFIP-S must have had income less than or equal to the assistance standard for their family size under the state's AFDC plan in effect as of July 16, 1996, as required by the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996 (PRWORA), Public Law Number 104-193 increased by three percent effective July 1, 2000, at the time medical assistance eligibility began. A person who is eligible for extended medical assistance under this subdivision is entitled to four months of assistance without reapplication, unless the assistance unit ceases to include a dependent child. For a person under 21 years of age, except medical assistance may not be discontinued for that dependent child under 21 years of age within the four-month period of extended eligibility until it has been determined that the person is not otherwise eligible for medical assistance.

(b) Beginning July 1, 2002, medical assistance for families and children may be paid for persons who were eligible under section 256B.055, subdivision 3a, paragraph (b), in at least three of the six months preceding the month in which the person became ineligible under that section if the ineligibility was the result of the collection of child or spousal support under part D of title IV of the Social Security Act. A person who is eligible for extended medical assistance under this subdivision is entitled to four months of assistance without reapplication, unless the assistance unit ceases to include a dependent child, except medical assistance may not be discontinued for that dependent child under 21 years of age within the four-month period of extended eligibility until it has been determined that the person is not otherwise eligible for medical assistance.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective July 1, 2001.

Sec. 27. [256B.0637] [PRESUMPTIVE ELIGIBILITY FOR CERTAIN PERSONS NEEDING TREATMENT FOR BREAST OR CERVICAL CANCER.]

Medical assistance is available during a presumptive eligibility period for persons who meet the criteria in section 256B.057, subdivision 10. For purposes of this section, the presumptive eligibility period begins on the date on which an entity designated by the commissioner determines, based on preliminary information, that the person

meets the criteria in section 256B.057, subdivision 10. The presumptive eligibility period ends on the day on which a determination is made as to the person's eligibility, except that if an application is not submitted by the last day of the month following the month during which the determination based on preliminary information is made, the presumptive eligibility period ends on that last day of the month.

Sec. 28. [256B.195] [HEALTH CARE SAFETY NET PRESERVATION.]

Subdivision 1. [INTERGOVERNMENTAL TRANSFERS AND RELATED PAYMENTS.] (a) This section is contingent on federal approval of the intergovernmental transfers and payments to safety net hospitals authorized under this section.

(b) In addition to the percentage contribution paid by a county under section 256B.19, subdivision 1, the governmental units designated in this subdivision shall be responsible for an additional portion of the nonfederal share of medical assistance costs attributable to them. For purposes of this section, "designated governmental unit" means Hennepin county, Ramsey county, or the University of Minnesota. For purposes of this section, "nonstate, government hospital" means Hennepin County Medical Center, the successor or assignee to St. Paul-Ramsey Medical Center as described in section 383A.91, or Fairview University Medical Center.

(c) Effective July 1, 2001, the governmental units designated in paragraph (a) shall in total transfer $2,833,333 on a monthly basis to the state Medicaid agency. The commissioner shall allocate this assessment between the governmental units based on the proportion of the Medicare upper payment limit for each nonstate, government hospital located within the governmental unit to the total Medicare upper payment limit of all participating hospitals in paragraph (b).

(d) The commissioner shall distribute the proceeds of this intergovernmental transfer, including the federal Medicaid match, as follows:

(1) Proceeds may be no less than the amount of the intergovernmental transfer in paragraph (c) multiplied by 1.75.

(2) The remaining proceeds provide funding for hospital charity care aid under section 144.585. The commissioner of human services shall work with the commissioner of health to assure that hospital charity care aid payments are administered in a manner that generates Medicaid matching funds.

(e) The successor or assignee to St. Paul-Ramsey Medical Center shall transfer on a monthly basis to Ramsey county an amount equal to the county assessment under paragraph (c).

Subd. 2. [DETERMINATION OF INTERGOVERNMENTAL TRANSFER AMOUNTS.] Medicaid rate changes, including those required to obtain federal financial participation under section 62J.692, subdivision 8, enacted prior to the effective date of this legislation, shall precede the determination of intergovernmental transfer amounts determined in this section. Participation in the intergovernmental transfer program shall not result in the offset of any nonstate, government hospital's receipt of Medicaid payment increases.

Subd. 3. [STATE PLAN AMENDMENTS.] The commissioner shall amend the state Medicaid plan as necessary to implement this section.

Subd. 4. [PROPORTIONATE ADJUSTMENTS.] (a) The commissioner shall adjust the intergovernmental transfers under subdivision 1, paragraph (c), and the payments under subdivision 1, paragraph (d), upon the approval of the designated governmental unit named in subdivision 1, paragraph (b), based on the commissioner's determination of Medicare upper payment limits, hospital-specific federal limitations on disproportionate share payments or to maximize additional federal reimbursements.

(b) In the event that: (i) federal approval is not received for the total intergovernmental transfer amount specified in subdivision 1, paragraph (d), or, (ii) federal rules regarding the establishment of the 150 percent Medicare upper payment limit, section 1102 of the Social Security Act, United States Code, title 42, section 1302, enacted on

March 13, 2001, are rescinded or, (iii) the federal 150 percent Medicare upper payment limit is reduced to 100 percent, the amount of the intergovernmental transfers and Medicaid payments to the nonstate, government hospitals named in subdivision 1, paragraph (b), shall be adjusted for each hospital based on the proportion of each hospital's Medicaid inpatient hospital days to the total Medicaid inpatient hospital days provided by all participating hospitals.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective July 1, 2001.

Sec. 29. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.69, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4. [LIMITATION OF CHOICE.] The commissioner shall develop criteria to determine when limitation of choice may be implemented in the experimental counties. The criteria shall ensure that all eligible individuals in the county have continuing access to the full range of medical assistance services as specified in subdivision 6. The commissioner shall exempt the following persons from participation in the project, in addition to those who do not meet the criteria for limitation of choice:

(1) persons eligible for medical assistance according to section 256B.055, subdivision 1;

(2) persons eligible for medical assistance due to blindness or disability as determined by the social security administration or the state medical review team, unless:

(i) they are 65 years of age or older,; or

(ii) they reside in Itasca county or they reside in a county in which the commissioner conducts a pilot project under a waiver granted pursuant to section 1115 of the Social Security Act;

(3) recipients who currently have private coverage through a health maintenance organization;

(4) recipients who are eligible for medical assistance by spending down excess income for medical expenses other than the nursing facility per diem expense;

(5) recipients who receive benefits under the Refugee Assistance Program, established under United States Code, title 8, section 1522(e);

(6) children who are both determined to be severely emotionally disturbed and receiving case management services according to section 256B.0625, subdivision 20; and

(7) adults who are both determined to be seriously and persistently mentally ill and received case management services according to section 256B.0625, subdivision 20; and

(8) persons eligible for medical assistance according to section 256B.057, subdivision 10.

Children under age 21 who are in foster placement may enroll in the project on an elective basis. Individuals excluded under clauses (6) and (7) may choose to enroll on an elective basis. The commissioner may allow persons with a one-month spenddown who are otherwise eligible to enroll to voluntarily enroll or remain enrolled, if they elect to prepay their monthly spenddown to the state. Beginning on or after July 1, 1997, The commissioner may require those individuals to enroll in the prepaid medical assistance program who otherwise would have been excluded under clauses (1) and, (3), and (8), and under Minnesota Rules, part 9500.1452, subpart 2, items H, K, and L. Before limitation of choice is implemented, eligible individuals shall be notified and after notification, shall be allowed to choose only among demonstration providers. The commissioner may assign an individual with private coverage through a health maintenance organization, to the same health maintenance organization for medical assistance coverage, if the health maintenance organization is under contract for medical assistance in the individual's county of residence. After initially choosing a provider, the recipient is allowed to change that choice

only at specified times as allowed by the commissioner. If a demonstration provider ends participation in the project for any reason, a recipient enrolled with that provider must select a new provider but may change providers without cause once more within the first 60 days after enrollment with the second provider.

Sec. 30. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.69, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5. [PROSPECTIVE PER CAPITA PAYMENT.] The commissioner shall establish the method and amount of payments for services. The commissioner shall annually contract with demonstration providers to provide services consistent with these established methods and amounts for payment. Payment rates established by the commissioner must be within the limits of available appropriations.

If allowed by the commissioner, a demonstration provider may contract with an insurer, health care provider, nonprofit health service plan corporation, or the commissioner, to provide insurance or similar protection against the cost of care provided by the demonstration provider or to provide coverage against the risks incurred by demonstration providers under this section. The recipients enrolled with a demonstration provider are a permissible group under group insurance laws and chapter 62C, the Nonprofit Health Service Plan Corporations Act. Under this type of contract, the insurer or corporation may make benefit payments to a demonstration provider for services rendered or to be rendered to a recipient. Any insurer or nonprofit health service plan corporation licensed to do business in this state is authorized to provide this insurance or similar protection.

Payments to providers participating in the project are exempt from the requirements of sections 256.966 and 256B.03, subdivision 2. The commissioner shall complete development of capitation rates for payments before delivery of services under this section is begun. For payments made during calendar year 1990 and later years, the commissioner shall contract with an independent actuary to establish prepayment rates.

By January 15, 1996, the commissioner shall report to the legislature on the methodology used to allocate to participating counties available administrative reimbursement for advocacy and enrollment costs. The report shall reflect the commissioner's judgment as to the adequacy of the funds made available and of the methodology for equitable distribution of the funds. The commissioner must involve participating counties in the development of the report.

Sec. 31. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.69, subdivision 5b, is amended to read:

Subd. 5b. [PROSPECTIVE REIMBURSEMENT RATES.] (a) For prepaid medical assistance and general assistance medical care program contract rates set by the commissioner under subdivision 5 and effective on or after January 1, 1998, capitation rates for nonmetropolitan counties shall on a weighted average be no less than 88 percent of the capitation rates for metropolitan counties, excluding Hennepin county. The commissioner shall make a pro rata adjustment in capitation rates paid to counties other than nonmetropolitan counties in order to make this provision budget neutral.

(b) For prepaid medical assistance program contract rates set by the commissioner under subdivision 5 and effective on or after January 1, 2001 2002, capitation rates for nonmetropolitan counties shall, on a weighted average, be no less than 89 95 percent of the capitation rates for metropolitan counties, excluding Hennepin county. The commissioner shall make a pro rata adjustment in capitation rates paid to Hennepin county in order to make the portion of the increase between 89 and 95 percent budget neutral.

(c) This subdivision shall not affect the nongeographically based risk adjusted rates established under section 62Q.03, subdivision 5a, paragraph (f).

(d) The commissioner shall require prepaid health plans to use all revenue received from the increase in capitation rates for nonmetropolitan counties from 89 to no less than 95 percent of the capitation rate for metropolitan counties, excluding Hennepin county, to increase reimbursement rates, effective January 1, 2002, for providers under contract with the prepaid health plan to serve enrollees from nonmetropolitan counties. 

Sec. 32. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.69, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 6c. [DENTAL SERVICES DEMONSTRATION PROJECT.] The commissioner shall establish a dental services demonstration project in Crow Wing, Todd, Morrison, Wadena, and Cass counties for provision of dental services to medical assistance, general assistance medical care, and MinnesotaCare recipients. The commissioner may contract on a prospective per capita payment basis for these dental services with an organization licensed under chapter 62C, 62D, or 62N in accordance with section 256B.037 or may establish and administer a fee-for-service system for the reimbursement of dental services.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective January 1, 2002.

Sec. 33. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.75, is amended to read:

256B.75 [HOSPITAL OUTPATIENT REIMBURSEMENT.]

(a) For outpatient hospital facility fee payments for services rendered on or after October 1, 1992, the commissioner of human services shall pay the lower of (1) submitted charge, or (2) 32 percent above the rate in effect on June 30, 1992, except for those services for which there is a federal maximum allowable payment. Effective for services rendered on or after January 1, 2000, payment rates for nonsurgical outpatient hospital facility fees and emergency room facility fees shall be increased by eight percent over the rates in effect on December 31, 1999, except for those services for which there is a federal maximum allowable payment. Services for which there is a federal maximum allowable payment shall be paid at the lower of (1) submitted charge, or (2) the federal maximum allowable payment. Total aggregate payment for outpatient hospital facility fee services shall not exceed the Medicare upper limit. If it is determined that a provision of this section conflicts with existing or future requirements of the United States government with respect to federal financial participation in medical assistance, the federal requirements prevail. The commissioner may, in the aggregate, prospectively reduce payment rates to avoid reduced federal financial participation resulting from rates that are in excess of the Medicare upper limitations.

(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a), payment for outpatient, emergency, and ambulatory surgery hospital facility fee services for critical access hospitals designated under section 144.1483, clause (11), shall be paid on a cost-based payment system that is based on the cost-finding methods and allowable costs of the Medicare program.

(c) Effective for services provided on or after July 1, 2002, rates that are based on the Medicare outpatient prospective payment system shall be replaced by a budget neutral prospective payment system that is derived using medical assistance data. The department shall provide a proposal to the 2002 legislature to define and implement this provision.

Sec. 34. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.76, is amended to read:

256B.76 [PHYSICIAN AND DENTAL REIMBURSEMENT.]

(a) Effective for services rendered on or after October 1, 1992, the commissioner shall make payments for physician services as follows:

(1) payment for level one Health Care Finance Administration's common procedural coding system (HCPCS) codes titled "office and other outpatient services," "preventive medicine new and established patient," "delivery, antepartum, and postpartum care," "critical care," Caesarean cesarean delivery and pharmacologic management provided to psychiatric patients, and HCPCS level three codes for enhanced services for prenatal high risk, shall be paid at the lower of (i) submitted charges, or (ii) 25 percent above the rate in effect on June 30, 1992. If the rate on any procedure code within these categories is different than the rate that would have been paid under the methodology in section 256B.74, subdivision 2, then the larger rate shall be paid;

(2) payments for all other services shall be paid at the lower of (i) submitted charges, or (ii) 15.4 percent above the rate in effect on June 30, 1992; 

(3) all physician rates shall be converted from the 50th percentile of 1982 to the 50th percentile of 1989, less the percent in aggregate necessary to equal the above increases except that payment rates for home health agency services shall be the rates in effect on September 30, 1992;

(4) effective for services rendered on or after January 1, 2000, payment rates for physician and professional services shall be increased by three percent over the rates in effect on December 31, 1999, except for home health agency and family planning agency services; and

(5) the increases in clause (4) shall be implemented January 1, 2000, for managed care.

(b) Effective for services rendered on or after October 1, 1992, the commissioner shall make payments for dental services as follows:

(1) dental services shall be paid at the lower of (i) submitted charges, or (ii) 25 percent above the rate in effect on June 30, 1992;

(2) dental rates shall be converted from the 50th percentile of 1982 to the 50th percentile of 1989, less the percent in aggregate necessary to equal the above increases;

(3) effective for services rendered on or after January 1, 2000, payment rates for dental services shall be increased by three percent over the rates in effect on December 31, 1999;

(4) the commissioner shall award grants to community clinics or other nonprofit community organizations, political subdivisions, professional associations, or other organizations that demonstrate the ability to provide dental services effectively to public program recipients. Grants may be used to fund the costs related to coordinating access for recipients, developing and implementing patient care criteria, upgrading or establishing new facilities, acquiring furnishings or equipment, recruiting new providers, or other development costs that will improve access to dental care in a region. In awarding grants, the commissioner shall give priority to applicants that plan to serve areas of the state in which the number of dental providers is not currently sufficient to meet the needs of recipients of public programs or uninsured individuals. The commissioner shall consider the following in awarding the grants: (i) potential to successfully increase access to an underserved population; (ii) the ability to raise matching funds; (iii) the long-term viability of the project to improve access beyond the period of initial funding; (iv) the efficiency in the use of the funding; and (v) the experience of the proposers in providing services to the target population.

The commissioner shall monitor the grants and may terminate a grant if the grantee does not increase dental access for public program recipients. The commissioner shall consider grants for the following:

(i) implementation of new programs or continued expansion of current access programs that have demonstrated success in providing dental services in underserved areas;

(ii) a pilot program for utilizing hygienists outside of a traditional dental office to provide dental hygiene services; and

(iii) a program that organizes a network of volunteer dentists, establishes a system to refer eligible individuals to volunteer dentists, and through that network provides donated dental care services to public program recipients or uninsured individuals.

(5) beginning October 1, 1999, the payment for tooth sealants and fluoride treatments shall be the lower of (i) submitted charge, or (ii) 80 percent of median 1997 charges; and

(6) the increases listed in clauses (3) and (5) shall be implemented January 1, 2000, for managed care; and

(7) effective for services provided on or after October 1, 2001, payment for diagnostic examinations and dental x-rays provided to children under age 21 shall be the lower of (i) the submitted charge, or (ii) 85 percent of median 1999 charges. 

(c) Effective for dental services rendered on or after July 1, 2001, the commissioner may increase reimbursements to dentists and dental clinics deemed by the commissioner to be critical access dental providers. Reimbursement to a critical access dental provider may be increased by not more than 50 percent above the reimbursement rate that would otherwise be paid to the provider. Payments to health plan companies shall be adjusted to reflect increased reimbursements to critical access dental providers as approved by the commissioner. In determining which dentists and dental clinics shall be deemed critical access dental providers, the commissioner shall review:

(1) the utilization rate in the service area in which the dentist or dental clinic operates for dental services to patients covered by medical assistance, general assistance medical care, or MinnesotaCare as their primary source of coverage;

(2) the level of services provided by the dentist or dental clinic to patients covered by medical assistance, general assistance medical care, or MinnesotaCare as their primary source of coverage; and

(3) whether the level of services provided by the dentist or dental clinic is critical to maintaining adequate levels of patient access within the service area.

In the absence of a critical access dental provider in a service area, the commissioner may designate a dentist or dental clinic as a critical access dental provider if the dentist or dental clinic is willing to provide care to patients covered by medical assistance, general assistance medical care, or MinnesotaCare at a level which significantly increases access to dental care in the service area.

(d) An entity that operates both a Medicare certified comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation facility and a facility which was certified prior to January 1, 1993, that is licensed under Minnesota Rules, parts 9570.2000 to 9570.3600, and for whom at least 33 percent of the clients receiving rehabilitation services in the most recent calendar year are medical assistance recipients, shall be reimbursed by the commissioner for rehabilitation services at rates that are 38 percent greater than the maximum reimbursement rate allowed under paragraph (a), clause (2), when those services are (1) provided within the comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation facility and (2) provided to residents of nursing facilities owned by the entity.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Sec. 35. [256B.78] [MEDICAL ASSISTANCE DEMONSTRATION PROJECT FOR FAMILY PLANNING SERVICES.]

(a) The commissioner of human services shall establish a medical assistance demonstration project to determine whether improved access to coverage of prepregnancy family planning services reduces medical assistance and MFIP costs.

(b) This section is effective upon federal approval of the demonstration project.

Sec. 36. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256D.03, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3. [GENERAL ASSISTANCE MEDICAL CARE; ELIGIBILITY.] (a) General assistance medical care may be paid for any person who is not eligible for medical assistance under chapter 256B, including eligibility for medical assistance based on a spenddown of excess income according to section 256B.056, subdivision 5, or MinnesotaCare as defined in paragraph (b), except as provided in paragraph (c); and:

(1) who is receiving assistance under section 256D.05, except for families with children who are eligible under Minnesota family investment program-statewide (MFIP-S), who is having a payment made on the person's behalf under sections 256I.01 to 256I.06, or who resides in group residential housing as defined in chapter 256I and can meet a spenddown using the cost of remedial services received through group residential housing; or 

(2)(i) who is a resident of Minnesota; and whose equity in assets is not in excess of $1,000 per assistance unit. Exempt assets, the reduction of excess assets, and the waiver of excess assets must conform to the medical assistance program in chapter 256B, with the following exception: the maximum amount of undistributed funds in a trust that could be distributed to or on behalf of the beneficiary by the trustee, assuming the full exercise of the trustee's discretion under the terms of the trust, must be applied toward the asset maximum; and

(ii) who has countable income not in excess of the assistance standards established in section 256B.056, subdivision 4 that does not exceed 133 and 1/3 percent of the AFDC income standard in effect under the July 16, 1996, AFDC state plan, increased by three percent, or whose excess income is spent down according to section 256B.056, subdivision 5, using a six-month budget period. The method for calculating earned income disregards and deductions for a person who resides with a dependent child under age 21 shall follow section 256B.056, subdivision 1a. However, if a disregard of $30 and one-third of the remainder has been applied to the wage earner's income, the disregard shall not be applied again until the wage earner's income has not been considered in an eligibility determination for general assistance, general assistance medical care, medical assistance, or MFIP-S for 12 consecutive months. The earned income and work expense deductions for a person who does not reside with a dependent child under age 21 shall be the same as the method used to determine eligibility for a person under section 256D.06, subdivision 1, except the disregard of the first $50 of earned income is not allowed;

(3) who would be eligible for medical assistance except that the person resides in a facility that is determined by the commissioner or the federal Health Care Financing Administration to be an institution for mental diseases; or

(4) who is ineligible for medical assistance under chapter 256B or general assistance medical care under any other provision of this section, and is receiving care and rehabilitation services from a nonprofit center established to serve victims of torture. These individuals are eligible for general assistance medical care only for the period during which they are receiving services from the center. During this period of eligibility, individuals eligible under this clause shall not be required to participate in prepaid general assistance medical care.

(b) Beginning January 1, 2000, applicants or recipients who meet all eligibility requirements of MinnesotaCare as defined in sections 256L.01 to 256L.16, and are:

(i) adults with dependent children under 21 whose gross family income is equal to or less than 275 percent of the federal poverty guidelines; or

(ii) adults without children with earned income and whose family gross income is between 75 percent of the federal poverty guidelines and the amount set by section 256L.04, subdivision 7, shall be terminated from general assistance medical care upon enrollment in MinnesotaCare.

(c) For services rendered on or after July 1, 1997, eligibility is limited to one month prior to application if the person is determined eligible in the prior month. A redetermination of eligibility must occur every 12 months. Beginning January 1, 2000, Minnesota health care program applications completed by recipients and applicants who are persons described in paragraph (b), may be returned to the county agency to be forwarded to the department of human services or sent directly to the department of human services for enrollment in MinnesotaCare. If all other eligibility requirements of this subdivision are met, eligibility for general assistance medical care shall be available in any month during which a MinnesotaCare eligibility determination and enrollment are pending. Upon notification of eligibility for MinnesotaCare, notice of termination for eligibility for general assistance medical care shall be sent to an applicant or recipient. If all other eligibility requirements of this subdivision are met, eligibility for general assistance medical care shall be available until enrollment in MinnesotaCare subject to the provisions of paragraph (e).

(d) The date of an initial Minnesota health care program application necessary to begin a determination of eligibility shall be the date the applicant has provided a name, address, and social security number, signed and dated, to the county agency or the department of human services. If the applicant is unable to provide an initial application when health care is delivered due to a medical condition or disability, a health care provider may act on the person's behalf to complete the initial application. The applicant must complete the remainder of the application and provide

necessary verification before eligibility can be determined. The county agency must assist the applicant in obtaining verification if necessary. On the basis of information provided on the completed application, an applicant who meets the following criteria shall be determined eligible beginning in the month of application:

(1) has gross income less than 90 percent of the applicable income standard;

(2) has liquid assets that total within $300 of the asset standard;

(3) does not reside in a long-term care facility; and

(4) meets all other eligibility requirements.

The applicant must provide all required verifications within 30 days' notice of the eligibility determination or eligibility shall be terminated.

(e) County agencies are authorized to use all automated databases containing information regarding recipients' or applicants' income in order to determine eligibility for general assistance medical care or MinnesotaCare. Such use shall be considered sufficient in order to determine eligibility and premium payments by the county agency.

(f) General assistance medical care is not available for a person in a correctional facility unless the person is detained by law for less than one year in a county correctional or detention facility as a person accused or convicted of a crime, or admitted as an inpatient to a hospital on a criminal hold order, and the person is a recipient of general assistance medical care at the time the person is detained by law or admitted on a criminal hold order and as long as the person continues to meet other eligibility requirements of this subdivision.

(g) General assistance medical care is not available for applicants or recipients who do not cooperate with the county agency to meet the requirements of medical assistance. General assistance medical care is limited to payment of emergency services only for applicants or recipients as described in paragraph (b), whose MinnesotaCare coverage is denied or terminated for nonpayment of premiums as required by sections 256L.06 and 256L.07.

(h) In determining the amount of assets of an individual, there shall be included any asset or interest in an asset, including an asset excluded under paragraph (a), that was given away, sold, or disposed of for less than fair market value within the 60 months preceding application for general assistance medical care or during the period of eligibility. Any transfer described in this paragraph shall be presumed to have been for the purpose of establishing eligibility for general assistance medical care, unless the individual furnishes convincing evidence to establish that the transaction was exclusively for another purpose. For purposes of this paragraph, the value of the asset or interest shall be the fair market value at the time it was given away, sold, or disposed of, less the amount of compensation received. For any uncompensated transfer, the number of months of ineligibility, including partial months, shall be calculated by dividing the uncompensated transfer amount by the average monthly per person payment made by the medical assistance program to skilled nursing facilities for the previous calendar year. The individual shall remain ineligible until this fixed period has expired. The period of ineligibility may exceed 30 months, and a reapplication for benefits after 30 months from the date of the transfer shall not result in eligibility unless and until the period of ineligibility has expired. The period of ineligibility begins in the month the transfer was reported to the county agency, or if the transfer was not reported, the month in which the county agency discovered the transfer, whichever comes first. For applicants, the period of ineligibility begins on the date of the first approved application.

(i) When determining eligibility for any state benefits under this subdivision, the income and resources of all noncitizens shall be deemed to include their sponsor's income and resources as defined in the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, title IV, Public Law Number 104-193, sections 421 and 422, and subsequently set out in federal rules.

(j)(1) An undocumented noncitizen or a nonimmigrant is ineligible for general assistance medical care other than emergency services. For purposes of this subdivision, a nonimmigrant is an individual in one or more of the classes listed in United States Code, title 8, section 1101(a)(15), and an undocumented noncitizen is an individual who resides in the United States without the approval or acquiescence of the Immigration and Naturalization Service. 

(2) This paragraph does not apply to a child under age 18, to a Cuban or Haitian entrant as defined in Public Law Number 96-422, section 501(e)(1) or (2)(a), or to a noncitizen who is aged, blind, or disabled as defined in Code of Federal Regulations, title 42, sections 435.520, 435.530, 435.531, 435.540, and 435.541, or effective October 1, 1998, to an individual eligible for general assistance medical care under paragraph (a), clause (4), who cooperates with the Immigration and Naturalization Service to pursue any applicable immigration status, including citizenship, that would qualify the individual for medical assistance with federal financial participation.

(k) For purposes of paragraphs (g) and (j), "emergency services" has the meaning given in Code of Federal Regulations, title 42, section 440.255(b)(1), except that it also means services rendered because of suspected or actual pesticide poisoning.

(l) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a noncitizen who is ineligible for medical assistance due to the deeming of a sponsor's income and resources, is ineligible for general assistance medical care.

Sec. 37. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256D.03, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4. [GENERAL ASSISTANCE MEDICAL CARE; SERVICES.] (a) For a person who is eligible under subdivision 3, paragraph (a), clause (3), general assistance medical care covers, except as provided in paragraph (c):

(1) inpatient hospital services;

(2) outpatient hospital services;

(3) services provided by Medicare certified rehabilitation agencies;

(4) prescription drugs and other products recommended through the process established in section 256B.0625, subdivision 13;

(5) equipment necessary to administer insulin and diagnostic supplies and equipment for diabetics to monitor blood sugar level;

(6) eyeglasses and eye examinations provided by a physician or optometrist;

(7) hearing aids;

(8) prosthetic devices;

(9) laboratory and X-ray services;

(10) physician's services;

(11) medical transportation;

(12) chiropractic services as covered under the medical assistance program;

(13) podiatric services;

(14) dental services;

(15) outpatient services provided by a mental health center or clinic that is under contract with the county board and is established under section 245.62;

(16) day treatment services for mental illness provided under contract with the county board; 

(17) prescribed medications for persons who have been diagnosed as mentally ill as necessary to prevent more restrictive institutionalization;

(18) psychological services, medical supplies and equipment, and Medicare premiums, coinsurance and deductible payments;

(19) medical equipment not specifically listed in this paragraph when the use of the equipment will prevent the need for costlier services that are reimbursable under this subdivision;

(20) services performed by a certified pediatric nurse practitioner, a certified family nurse practitioner, a certified adult nurse practitioner, a certified obstetric/gynecological nurse practitioner, a certified neonatal nurse practitioner, or a certified geriatric nurse practitioner in independent practice, if (1) the service is otherwise covered under this chapter as a physician service, (2) the service provided on an inpatient basis is not included as part of the cost for inpatient services included in the operating payment rate, and (3) the service is within the scope of practice of the nurse practitioner's license as a registered nurse, as defined in section 148.171;

(21) services of a certified public health nurse or a registered nurse practicing in a public health nursing clinic that is a department of, or that operates under the direct authority of, a unit of government, if the service is within the scope of practice of the public health nurse's license as a registered nurse, as defined in section 148.171; and

(22) telemedicine consultations, to the extent they are covered under section 256B.0625, subdivision 3b.

(b) Except as provided in paragraph (c), for a recipient who is eligible under subdivision 3, paragraph (a), clause (1) or (2), general assistance medical care covers the services listed in paragraph (a) with the exception of special transportation services.

(c) Gender reassignment surgery and related services are not covered services under this subdivision unless the individual began receiving gender reassignment services prior to July 1, 1995.

(d) In order to contain costs, the commissioner of human services shall select vendors of medical care who can provide the most economical care consistent with high medical standards and shall where possible contract with organizations on a prepaid capitation basis to provide these services. The commissioner shall consider proposals by counties and vendors for prepaid health plans, competitive bidding programs, block grants, or other vendor payment mechanisms designed to provide services in an economical manner or to control utilization, with safeguards to ensure that necessary services are provided. Before implementing prepaid programs in counties with a county operated or affiliated public teaching hospital or a hospital or clinic operated by the University of Minnesota, the commissioner shall consider the risks the prepaid program creates for the hospital and allow the county or hospital the opportunity to participate in the program in a manner that reflects the risk of adverse selection and the nature of the patients served by the hospital, provided the terms of participation in the program are competitive with the terms of other participants considering the nature of the population served. Payment for services provided pursuant to this subdivision shall be as provided to medical assistance vendors of these services under sections 256B.02, subdivision 8, and 256B.0625. For payments made during fiscal year 1990 and later years, the commissioner shall consult with an independent actuary in establishing prepayment rates, but shall retain final control over the rate methodology. Payment rates established by the commissioner must be within the limits of available appropriations. Notwithstanding the provisions of subdivision 3, an individual who becomes ineligible for general assistance medical care because of failure to submit income reports or recertification forms in a timely manner, shall remain enrolled in the prepaid health plan and shall remain eligible for general assistance medical care coverage through the last day of the month in which the enrollee became ineligible for general assistance medical care.

(e) There shall be no copayment required of any recipient of benefits for any services provided under this subdivision. A hospital receiving a reduced payment as a result of this section may apply the unpaid balance toward satisfaction of the hospital's bad debts.

(f) Any county may, from its own resources, provide medical payments for which state payments are not made. 

(g) Chemical dependency services that are reimbursed under chapter 254B must not be reimbursed under general assistance medical care.

(h) The maximum payment for new vendors enrolled in the general assistance medical care program after the base year shall be determined from the average usual and customary charge of the same vendor type enrolled in the base year.

(i) The conditions of payment for services under this subdivision are the same as the conditions specified in rules adopted under chapter 256B governing the medical assistance program, unless otherwise provided by statute or rule.

Sec. 38. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256J.31, subdivision 12, is amended to read:

Subd. 12. [RIGHT TO DISCONTINUE CASH ASSISTANCE.] A participant who is not in vendor payment status may discontinue receipt of the cash assistance portion of the MFIP assistance grant and retain eligibility for child care assistance under section 119B.05 and for medical assistance under sections 256B.055, subdivision 3a, and 256B.0635. For the months a participant chooses to discontinue the receipt of the cash portion of the MFIP grant, the assistance unit accrues months of eligibility to be applied toward eligibility for child care under section 119B.05 and for medical assistance under sections 256B.055, subdivision 3a, and 256B.0635.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective July 1, 2002.

Sec. 39. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256K.03, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [NOTIFICATION OF PROGRAM.] Except for the provisions in this section, the provisions for the MFIP application process shall be followed. Within two days after receipt of a completed combined application form, the county agency must refer to the provider the applicant who meets the conditions under section 256K.02, and notify the applicant in writing of the program including the following provisions:

(1) notification that, as part of the application process, applicants are required to attend orientation, to be followed immediately by a job search;

(2) the program provider, the date, time, and location of the scheduled program orientation;

(3) the procedures for qualifying for and receiving benefits under the program;

(4) the immediate availability of supportive services, including, but not limited to, child care, transportation, medical assistance, and other work-related aid; and

(5) the rights, responsibilities, and obligations of participants in the program, including, but not limited to, the grounds for exemptions and deferrals, the consequences for refusing or failing to participate fully, and the appeal process.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective July 1, 2002.

Sec. 40. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256K.07, is amended to read:

256K.07 [ELIGIBILITY FOR FOOD STAMPS, MEDICAL ASSISTANCE, AND CHILD CARE.]

The participant shall be treated as an MFIP recipient for food stamps, medical assistance, and child care eligibility purposes. The participant who leaves the program as a result of increased earnings from employment shall be eligible for transitional medical assistance and child care without regard to MFIP receipt in three of the six months preceding ineligibility.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective July 1, 2002. 

Sec. 41. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256L.06, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3. [ADMINISTRATION AND COMMISSIONER'S DUTIES.] (a) Premiums are dedicated to the commissioner for MinnesotaCare.

(b) The commissioner shall develop and implement procedures to: (1) require enrollees to report changes in income; (2) adjust sliding scale premium payments, based upon changes in enrollee income; and (3) disenroll enrollees from MinnesotaCare for failure to pay required premiums. Failure to pay includes payment with a dishonored check, a returned automatic bank withdrawal, or a refused credit card or debit card payment. The commissioner may demand a guaranteed form of payment, including a cashier's check or a money order, as the only means to replace a dishonored, returned, or refused payment.

(c) Premiums are calculated on a calendar month basis and may be paid on a monthly, quarterly, or annual basis, with the first payment due upon notice from the commissioner of the premium amount required. The commissioner shall inform applicants and enrollees of these premium payment options. Premium payment is required before enrollment is complete and to maintain eligibility in MinnesotaCare.

(d) Nonpayment of the premium will result in disenrollment from the plan within one calendar month after the due date effective for the calendar month for which the premium was due. Persons disenrolled for nonpayment or who voluntarily terminate coverage from the program may not reenroll until four calendar months have elapsed. Persons disenrolled for nonpayment who pay all past due premiums as well as current premiums due, including premiums due for the period of disenrollment, within 20 days of disenrollment, shall be reenrolled retroactively to the first day of disenrollment. Persons disenrolled for nonpayment or who voluntarily terminate coverage from the program may not reenroll for four calendar months unless the person demonstrates good cause for nonpayment. Good cause does not exist if a person chooses to pay other family expenses instead of the premium. The commissioner shall define good cause in rule.

[EFFECTIVE DATE.] This section is effective July 1, 2002.

Sec. 42. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256L.12, subdivision 9, is amended to read:

Subd. 9. [RATE SETTING.] Rates will be prospective, per capita, where possible. The commissioner may allow health plans to arrange for inpatient hospital services on a risk or nonrisk basis. The commissioner shall consult with an independent actuary to determine appropriate rates. Rates established by the commissioner must be within the limits of available appropriations.

Sec. 43. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256L.12, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 11. [COVERAGE AT INDIAN HEALTH SERVICE FACILITIES.] For American Indian enrollees of MinnesotaCare, MinnesotaCare shall cover health care services provided at Indian Health Service facilities and facilities operated by a tribe or tribal organization under funding authorized by United States Code, title 25, sections 450f to 450n, or title III of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Act, Public Law Number 93-638, if those services would otherwise be covered under section 256L.03. Payments for services provided under this subdivision shall be made on a fee-for-service basis, and may, at the option of the tribe or organization, be made at the rates authorized under sections 256.969, subdivision 16, and 256B.0625, subdivision 34, for those MinnesotaCare enrollees eligible for coverage at medical assistance rates. For purposes of this subdivision, "American Indian" has the meaning given to persons to whom services will be provided for in the Code of Federal Regulations, title 42, section 36.12.

Sec. 44. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256L.16, is amended to read:

256L.16 [PAYMENT RATES; SERVICES FOR FAMILIES AND CHILDREN UNDER THE MINNESOTACARE HEALTH CARE REFORM WAIVER.]

Section 256L.11, subdivision 2, shall not apply to services provided to children families with children who are eligible to receive expanded services according to section 256L.03, subdivision 1a 256L.04, subdivision 1, paragraph (a).

Sec. 45. Laws 1995, chapter 178, article 2, section 36, is amended to read:

Sec. 36. [EMPOWERMENT ZONES; ADMINISTRATIVE SIMPLIFICATION OF WELFARE LAWS.]

(a) The commissioner of human services shall make recommendations to effectuate the changes in federal laws and regulations, state laws and rules, and the state plan to improve the administrative efficiency of the aid to families with dependent children, general assistance, work readiness, family general assistance, medical assistance, general assistance medical care, and food stamp programs. At a minimum, the following administrative standards and procedures must be changed.

The commissioner shall:

(1) require income or eligibility reviews no more frequently than annually for cases in which income is normally invariant, as in aid to families with dependent children cases where the only source of household income is Supplemental Social Security Income;

(2) permit households to report income annually when the source of income is excluded, such as a minor's earnings;

(3) require income or eligibility reviews no more frequently than annually for extended medical assistance cases;

(4) require income or eligibility reviews no more frequently than annually for a medical assistance postpartum client, where the client previously had eligibility under a different basis prior to pregnancy or if other household members have eligibility with the same income/basis that applies to the client;

(5) (4) permit all income or eligibility reviews for foster care medical assistance cases to use the short application form; and

(6) (5) make dependent care expenses declaratory for medical assistance; and

(7) permit households to only report gifts worth $100 or more per month.

(b) The county's administrative savings resulting from these changes may be allocated to fund any lawful purpose.

(c) The recommendations must be provided in a report to the chairs of the appropriate legislative committees by August 1, 1995. The recommendations must include a list of the administrative standards and procedures that require approval by the federal government before implementation, and also which administrative simplification standards and procedures may be implemented by a county prior to receiving a federal waiver.

(d) The commissioner shall seek the necessary waivers from the federal government as soon as possible to implement the administrative simplification standards and procedures.

Sec. 46. Laws 1999, chapter 245, article 4, section 110, is amended to read:

Sec. 110. [PROGRAMS FOR SENIOR CITIZENS.]

The commissioner of human services shall study the eligibility criteria of and benefits provided to persons age 65 and over through the array of cash assistance and health care programs administered by the department, and the extent to which these programs can be combined, simplified, or coordinated to reduce administrative costs and improve access. The commissioner shall also study potential barriers to enrollment for low-income seniors who would otherwise deplete resources necessary to maintain independent community living. At a minimum, the study must include an evaluation of asset requirements and enrollment sites. The commissioner shall report study findings and recommendations to the legislature by June September 30, 2001. 

Sec. 47. [NOTICE OF NEW PREMIUM SCHEDULE.]

The commissioner of human services shall provide medical assistance enrollees subject to premiums as employed persons with disabilities with prior notice of the new premium schedule established under the section 13 amendment to section 256B.057, subdivision 9, paragraph (c). This notice must be provided at least two months before the month in which the first premium payment under the new schedule is due.

Sec. 48. [MEDICATION THERAPY MANAGEMENT PILOT PROGRAM.]

Subdivision 1. [ESTABLISHMENT.] The commissioner of human services, in consultation with the advisory committee established under subdivision 2, shall implement, beginning July 1, 2001, a two-year medication therapy management pilot program for medical assistance enrollees. Medication therapy management must be provided by teams of physicians and pharmacists working in collaborative practice, as defined in Minnesota Statutes, section 151.01, subdivision 27, clause (5), to help patients use medications safely and effectively. The commissioner may enroll individual pharmacists who participate in the pilot program as medical assistance providers and shall seek to ensure that participating pharmacists represent all geographic regions of the state.

Subd. 2. [ADVISORY COMMITTEE.] The commissioner shall establish a ten-member medication therapy management advisory committee, to advise the commissioner in the implementation and administration of the program and the development of eligibility criteria for enrollees and providers and requirements for collaborative practice agreements. The committee shall be comprised of: two licensed physicians; two licensed pharmacists; two consumer representatives; three members with expertise in the area of medication therapy management, who may be licensed physicians or licensed pharmacists; and a representative of the commissioner, who shall serve as an ex-officio nonvoting member. In appointing members who are not consumer representatives, the commissioner shall consider recommendations of associations representing pharmacy and medical practitioners. The committee is governed by section 15.059, except that committee members do not receive compensation or reimbursement for expenses.

Subd. 3. [EVALUATION.] The commissioner shall evaluate the cost-effectiveness of the pilot program and its effect on patient outcomes and quality of care, and shall report to the legislature by December 15, 2003. The commissioner may contract with a vendor to conduct the evaluation.

Sec. 49. [REGULATORY SIMPLIFICATION FOR STATE HEALTH CARE PROGRAM PROVIDERS.]

The commissioner of human services, in consultation with providers participating in state health care programs, shall identify nonfinancial barriers to increased provider enrollment and provider retention in state health care programs, and shall implement procedures to address these barriers. Areas to be examined by the commissioner shall include, but are not limited to, regulatory complexity and inconsistencies between state health care programs, provider requirements, provision of technical assistance to providers, responsiveness to provider inquiries and complaints, claims processing turnaround times, and policies for rejecting provider claims. The commissioner shall report to the legislature by February 15, 2002, on any changes to the administration of state health care programs that will be implemented as a result of the study, and present recommendations for any necessary changes in state law.

Sec. 50. [REPEALER.]

(a) Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.037, subdivision 5, is repealed effective January 1, 2002.

(b) Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0635, subdivision 3, is repealed effective July 1, 2002. 

ARTICLE 3

CONTINUING CARE AND HOME CARE

Section 1. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 245A.13, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7. [RATE RECOMMENDATION.] The commissioner of human services may review rates of a residential program participating in the medical assistance program which is in receivership and that has needs or deficiencies documented by the department of health or the department of human services. If the commissioner of human services determines that a review of the rate established under section 256B.501 sections 256B.5012 and 256B.5013 is needed, the commissioner shall:

(1) review the order or determination that cites the deficiencies or needs; and

(2) determine the need for additional staff, additional annual hours by type of employee, and additional consultants, services, supplies, equipment, repairs, or capital assets necessary to satisfy the needs or deficiencies.

Sec. 2. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 245A.13, subdivision 8, is amended to read:

Subd. 8. [ADJUSTMENT TO THE RATE.] Upon review of rates under subdivision 7, the commissioner may adjust the residential program's payment rate. The commissioner shall review the circumstances, together with the residential program cost report program's most recent income and expense report, to determine whether or not the deficiencies or needs can be corrected or met by reallocating residential program staff, costs, revenues, or any other resources including any investments, efficiency incentives, or allowances. If the commissioner determines that any deficiency cannot be corrected or the need cannot be met with the payment rate currently being paid, the commissioner shall determine the payment rate adjustment by dividing the additional annual costs established during the commissioner's review by the residential program's actual resident days from the most recent desk-audited cost income and expense report or the estimated resident days in the projected receivership period. The payment rate adjustment must meet the conditions in Minnesota Rules, parts 9553.0010 to 9553.0080, and remains in effect during the period of the receivership or until another date set by the commissioner. Upon the subsequent sale, closure, or transfer of the residential program, the commissioner may recover amounts that were paid as payment rate adjustments under this subdivision. This recovery shall be determined through a review of actual costs and resident days in the receivership period. The costs the commissioner finds to be allowable shall be divided by the actual resident days for the receivership period. This rate shall be compared to the rate paid throughout the receivership period, with the difference, multiplied by resident days, being the amount to be repaid to the commissioner. Allowable costs shall be determined by the commissioner as those ordinary, necessary, and related to resident care by prudent and cost-conscious management. The buyer or transferee shall repay this amount to the commissioner within 60 days after the commissioner notifies the buyer or transferee of the obligation to repay. This provision does not limit the liability of the seller to the commissioner pursuant to section 256B.0641.

Sec. 3. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 252.275, subdivision 4b, is amended to read:

Subd. 4b. [GUARANTEED FLOOR.] Each county with an original allocation for the preceding year that is equal to or less than the guaranteed floor minimum index shall have a guaranteed floor equal to its original allocation for the preceding year. Each county with an original allocation for the preceding year that is greater than the guaranteed floor minimum index shall have a guaranteed floor equal to the lesser of clause (1) or (2):

(1) the county's original allocation for the preceding year; or

(2) 70 percent of the county's reported expenditures eligible for reimbursement during the 12 months ending on June 30 of the preceding calendar year. 

For calendar year 1993, the guaranteed floor minimum index shall be $20,000. For each subsequent year, the index shall be adjusted by the projected change in the average value in the United States Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics consumer price index (all urban) for that year.

Notwithstanding this subdivision, no county shall be allocated a guaranteed floor of less than $1,000.

When the amount of funds available for allocation is less than the amount available in the previous year, each county's previous year allocation shall be reduced in proportion to the reduction in the statewide funding, to establish each county's guaranteed floor.

Sec. 4. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 254B.02, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3. [RESERVE ACCOUNT.] The commissioner shall allocate money from the reserve account to counties that, during the current fiscal year, have met or exceeded the base level of expenditures for eligible chemical dependency services from local money. The commissioner shall establish the base level for fiscal year 1988 as the amount of local money used for eligible services in calendar year 1986. In later years, the base level must be increased in the same proportion as state appropriations to implement Laws 1986, chapter 394, sections 8 to 20, are increased. The base level must be decreased if the fund balance from which allocations are made under section 254B.02, subdivision 1, is decreased in later years. The local match rate for the reserve account is the same rate as applied to the initial allocation. Reserve account payments must not be included when calculating the county adjustments made according to subdivision 2. For counties providing medical assistance or general assistance medical care through managed care plans on January 1, 1996, the base year is fiscal year 1995. For counties beginning provision of managed care after January 1, 1996, the base year is the most recent fiscal year before enrollment in managed care begins. For counties providing managed care, the base level will be increased or decreased in proportion to changes in the fund balance from which allocations are made under subdivision 2, but will be additionally increased or decreased in proportion to the change in county adjusted population made in subdivision 1, paragraphs (b) and (c). Effective July 1, 2001, funds deposited in the reserve account in excess of those needed to meet obligations for services provided during the biennium under this section and sections 254B.06 and 254B.09 shall cancel to the general fund.

Sec. 5. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 254B.03, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [LOCAL AGENCY DUTIES.] (a) Every local agency shall provide chemical dependency services to persons residing within its jurisdiction who meet criteria established by the commissioner for placement in a chemical dependency residential or nonresidential treatment service. Chemical dependency money must be administered by the local agencies according to law and rules adopted by the commissioner under sections 14.001 to 14.69.

(b) In order to contain costs, the county board shall, with the approval of the commissioner of human services, select eligible vendors of chemical dependency services who can provide economical and appropriate treatment. Unless the local agency is a social services department directly administered by a county or human services board, the local agency shall not be an eligible vendor under section 254B.05. The commissioner may approve proposals from county boards to provide services in an economical manner or to control utilization, with safeguards to ensure that necessary services are provided. If a county implements a demonstration or experimental medical services funding plan, the commissioner shall transfer the money as appropriate. If a county selects a vendor located in another state, the county shall ensure that the vendor is in compliance with the rules governing licensure of programs located in the state.

(c) The calendar year 1998 2002 rate for vendors may not increase more than three two percent above the rate approved in effect on January 1, 1997 2001. The calendar year 1999 2003 rate for vendors may not increase more than three two percent above the rate in effect on January 1, 1998 2002. The calendar years 2004 and 2005 rates may not exceed the rate in effect on January 1, 2003. 

(d) A culturally specific vendor that provides assessments under a variance under Minnesota Rules, part 9530.6610, shall be allowed to provide assessment services to persons not covered by the variance.

Sec. 6. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 254B.04, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [ELIGIBILITY.] (a) Persons eligible for benefits under Code of Federal Regulations, title 25, part 20, persons eligible for medical assistance benefits under sections 256B.055, 256B.056, and 256B.057, subdivisions 1, 2, 5, and 6, or who meet the income standards of section 256B.056, subdivision 4, and persons eligible for general assistance medical care under section 256D.03, subdivision 3, are entitled to chemical dependency fund services. State money appropriated for this paragraph must be placed in a separate account established for this purpose.

Persons with dependent children who are determined to be in need of chemical dependency treatment pursuant to an assessment under section 626.556, subdivision 10, or a case plan under section 260C.201, subdivision 6, or 260C.212, shall be assisted by the local agency to access needed treatment services. Treatment services must be appropriate for the individual or family, which may include long-term care treatment or treatment in a facility that allows the dependent children to stay in the treatment facility. The county shall pay for out-of-home placement costs, if applicable.

(b) A person not entitled to services under paragraph (a), but with family income that is less than the 1997 federal poverty guidelines equivalent of 60 percent of the state median income for a family of like size and composition, shall be eligible to receive chemical dependency fund services within the limit of funds available after persons entitled to services under paragraph (a) have been served appropriated for this group for the fiscal year. If notified by the state agency of limited funds, a county must give preferential treatment to persons with dependent children who are in need of chemical dependency treatment pursuant to an assessment under section 626.556, subdivision 10, or a case plan under section 260C.201, subdivision 6, or 260C.212. A county may spend money from its own sources to serve persons under this paragraph. State money appropriated for this paragraph must be placed in a separate account established for this purpose.

(c) Persons whose income is between the 1997 federal poverty guidelines equivalent of 60 percent and 115 percent of the state median income shall be eligible for chemical dependency services on a sliding fee basis, within the limit of funds available, after persons entitled to services under paragraph (a) and persons eligible for services under paragraph (b) have been served appropriated for this group for the fiscal year. Persons eligible under this paragraph must contribute to the cost of services according to the sliding fee scale established under subdivision 3. A county may spend money from its own sources to provide services to persons under this paragraph. State money appropriated for this paragraph must be placed in a separate account established for this purpose.

Sec. 7. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 254B.09, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 8. [PAYMENTS TO IMPROVE SERVICES TO AMERICAN INDIANS.] The commissioner may set rates for chemical dependency services according to the American Indian Health Improvement Act, Public Law Number 94-437, for eligible vendors. These rates shall supersede rates set in county purchase of service agreements when payments are made on behalf of clients eligible according to Public Law Number 94-437.

Sec. 8. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256.01, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 19. [GRANTS FOR CASE MANAGEMENT SERVICES TO PERSONS WITH HIV OR AIDS.] The commissioner may award grants to eligible vendors for the development, implementation, and evaluation of case management services for individuals infected with the human immunodeficiency virus. HIV/AIDs case management services will be provided to increase access to cost effective health care services, to reduce the risk of HIV transmission, to ensure that basic client needs are met, and to increase client access to needed community supports or services. 

Sec. 9. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256.476, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [PURPOSE AND GOALS.] The commissioner of human services shall establish a consumer support grant program to assist for individuals with functional limitations and their families in purchasing and securing supports which the individuals need to live as independently and productively in the community as possible who wish to purchase and secure their own supports. The commissioner and local agencies shall jointly develop an implementation plan which must include a way to resolve the issues related to county liability. The program shall:

(1) make support grants available to individuals or families as an effective alternative to existing programs and services, such as the developmental disability family support program, the alternative care program, personal care attendant services, home health aide services, and private duty nursing facility services;

(2) provide consumers more control, flexibility, and responsibility over the needed supports their services and supports;

(3) promote local program management and decision making; and

(4) encourage the use of informal and typical community supports.

Sec. 10. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256.476, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [DEFINITIONS.] For purposes of this section, the following terms have the meanings given them:

(a) "County board" means the county board of commissioners for the county of financial responsibility as defined in section 256G.02, subdivision 4, or its designated representative. When a human services board has been established under sections 402.01 to 402.10, it shall be considered the county board for the purposes of this section.

(b) "Family" means the person's birth parents, adoptive parents or stepparents, siblings or stepsiblings, children or stepchildren, grandparents, grandchildren, niece, nephew, aunt, uncle, or spouse. For the purposes of this section, a family member is at least 18 years of age.

(c) "Functional limitations" means the long-term inability to perform an activity or task in one or more areas of major life activity, including self-care, understanding and use of language, learning, mobility, self-direction, and capacity for independent living. For the purpose of this section, the inability to perform an activity or task results from a mental, emotional, psychological, sensory, or physical disability, condition, or illness.

(d) "Informed choice" means a voluntary decision made by the person or the person's legal representative, after becoming familiarized with the alternatives to:

(1) select a preferred alternative from a number of feasible alternatives;

(2) select an alternative which may be developed in the future; and

(3) refuse any or all alternatives.

(e) "Local agency" means the local agency authorized by the county board to carry out the provisions of this section.

(f) "Person" or "persons" means a person or persons meeting the eligibility criteria in subdivision 3.

(g) "Authorized representative" means an individual designated by the person or their legal representative to act on their behalf. This individual may be a family member, guardian, representative payee, or other individual designated by the person or their legal representative, if any, to assist in purchasing and arranging for supports. For the purposes of this section, an authorized representative is at least 18 years of age. 

(h) "Screening" means the screening of a person's service needs under sections 256B.0911 and 256B.092.

(i) "Supports" means services, care, aids, home environmental modifications, or assistance purchased by the person or the person's family. Examples of supports include respite care, assistance with daily living, and adaptive aids assistive technology. For the purpose of this section, notwithstanding the provisions of section 144A.43, supports purchased under the consumer support program are not considered home care services.

(j) "Program of origination" means the program the individual transferred from when approved for the consumer support grant program.

Sec. 11. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256.476, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3. [ELIGIBILITY TO APPLY FOR GRANTS.] (a) A person is eligible to apply for a consumer support grant if the person meets all of the following criteria:

(1) the person is eligible for and has been approved to receive services under medical assistance as determined under sections 256B.055 and 256B.056 or the person is eligible for and has been approved to receive services under alternative care services as determined under section 256B.0913 or the person has been approved to receive a grant under the developmental disability family support program under section 252.32;

(2) the person is able to direct and purchase the person's own care and supports, or the person has a family member, legal representative, or other authorized representative who can purchase and arrange supports on the person's behalf;

(3) the person has functional limitations, requires ongoing supports to live in the community, and is at risk of or would continue institutionalization without such supports; and

(4) the person will live in a home. For the purpose of this section, "home" means the person's own home or home of a person's family member. These homes are natural home settings and are not licensed by the department of health or human services.

(b) Persons may not concurrently receive a consumer support grant if they are:

(1) receiving home and community-based services under United States Code, title 42, section 1396h(c); personal care attendant and home health aide services under section 256B.0625; a developmental disability family support grant; or alternative care services under section 256B.0913; or

(2) residing in an institutional or congregate care setting.

(c) A person or person's family receiving a consumer support grant shall not be charged a fee or premium by a local agency for participating in the program.

(d) The commissioner may limit the participation of nursing facility residents, residents of intermediate care facilities for persons with mental retardation, and the recipients of services from federal waiver programs in the consumer support grant program if the participation of these individuals will result in an increase in the cost to the state.

(e) The commissioner shall establish a budgeted appropriation each fiscal year for the consumer support grant program. The number of individuals participating in the program will be adjusted so the total amount allocated to counties does not exceed the amount of the budgeted appropriation. The budgeted appropriation will be adjusted annually to accommodate changes in demand for the consumer support grants. 

Sec. 12. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256.476, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4. [SUPPORT GRANTS; CRITERIA AND LIMITATIONS.] (a) A county board may choose to participate in the consumer support grant program. If a county board chooses to participate in the program, the local agency shall establish written procedures and criteria to determine the amount and use of support grants. These procedures must include, at least, the availability of respite care, assistance with daily living, and adaptive aids. The local agency may establish monthly or annual maximum amounts for grants and procedures where exceptional resources may be required to meet the health and safety needs of the person on a time-limited basis, however, the total amount awarded to each individual may not exceed the limits established in subdivision 5, paragraph (f).

(b) Support grants to a person or a person's family will be provided through a monthly subsidy payment and be in the form of cash, voucher, or direct county payment to vendor. Support grant amounts must be determined by the local agency. Each service and item purchased with a support grant must meet all of the following criteria:

(1) it must be over and above the normal cost of caring for the person if the person did not have functional limitations;

(2) it must be directly attributable to the person's functional limitations;

(3) it must enable the person or the person's family to delay or prevent out-of-home placement of the person; and

(4) it must be consistent with the needs identified in the service plan, when applicable.

(c) Items and services purchased with support grants must be those for which there are no other public or private funds available to the person or the person's family. Fees assessed to the person or the person's family for health and human services are not reimbursable through the grant.

(d) In approving or denying applications, the local agency shall consider the following factors:

(1) the extent and areas of the person's functional limitations;

(2) the degree of need in the home environment for additional support; and

(3) the potential effectiveness of the grant to maintain and support the person in the family environment or the person's own home.

(e) At the time of application to the program or screening for other services, the person or the person's family shall be provided sufficient information to ensure an informed choice of alternatives by the person, the person's legal representative, if any, or the person's family. The application shall be made to the local agency and shall specify the needs of the person and family, the form and amount of grant requested, the items and services to be reimbursed, and evidence of eligibility for medical assistance or alternative care program.

(f) Upon approval of an application by the local agency and agreement on a support plan for the person or person's family, the local agency shall make grants to the person or the person's family. The grant shall be in an amount for the direct costs of the services or supports outlined in the service agreement.

(g) Reimbursable costs shall not include costs for resources already available, such as special education classes, day training and habilitation, case management, other services to which the person is entitled, medical costs covered by insurance or other health programs, or other resources usually available at no cost to the person or the person's family.

(h) The state of Minnesota, the county boards participating in the consumer support grant program, or the agencies acting on behalf of the county boards in the implementation and administration of the consumer support grant program shall not be liable for damages, injuries, or liabilities sustained through the purchase of support by

the individual, the individual's family, or the authorized representative under this section with funds received through the consumer support grant program. Liabilities include but are not limited to: workers' compensation liability, the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA), or the Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA). For purposes of this section, participating county boards and agencies acting on behalf of county boards are exempt from the provisions of section 268.04.

Sec. 13. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256.476, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5. [REIMBURSEMENT, ALLOCATIONS, AND REPORTING.] (a) For the purpose of transferring persons to the consumer support grant program from specific programs or services, such as the developmental disability family support program and alternative care program, personal care attendant assistant services, home health aide services, or nursing facility private duty nursing services, the amount of funds transferred by the commissioner between the developmental disability family support program account, the alternative care account, the medical assistance account, or the consumer support grant account shall be based on each county's participation in transferring persons to the consumer support grant program from those programs and services.

(b) At the beginning of each fiscal year, county allocations for consumer support grants shall be based on:

(1) the number of persons to whom the county board expects to provide consumer supports grants;

(2) their eligibility for current program and services;

(3) the amount of nonfederal dollars expended on those individuals for those programs and services or, in situations where an individual is unable to obtain the support needed from the program of origination due to the unavailability of service providers at the time or the location where the supports are needed, the allocation will be based on the county's best estimate of the nonfederal dollars that would have been expended if the services had been available; and

(4) projected dates when persons will start receiving grants. County allocations shall be adjusted periodically by the commissioner based on the actual transfer of persons or service openings, and the nonfederal dollars associated with those persons or service openings, to the consumer support grant program.

(c) The amount of funds transferred by the commissioner from the alternative care account and the medical assistance account for an individual may be changed if it is determined by the county or its agent that the individual's need for support has changed.

(d) The authority to utilize funds transferred to the consumer support grant account for the purposes of implementing and administering the consumer support grant program will not be limited or constrained by the spending authority provided to the program of origination.

(e) The commissioner shall may use up to five percent of each county's allocation, as adjusted, for payments to that county for administrative expenses, to be paid as a proportionate addition to reported direct service expenditures.

(f) Except as provided in this paragraph, the county allocation for each individual or individual's family cannot exceed 80 percent of the total nonfederal dollars expended on the individual by the program of origination except for the developmental disabilities family support grant program which can be approved up to 100 percent of the nonfederal dollars and in situations as described in paragraph (b), clause (3). In situations where exceptional need exists or the individual's need for support increases, up to 100 percent of the nonfederal dollars expended by the consumer's program of origination may be allocated to the county. Allocations that exceed 80 percent of the nonfederal dollars expended on the individual by the program of origination must be approved by the commissioner. The remainder of the amount expended on the individual by the program of origination will be used in the following proportions: half will be made available to the consumer support grant program and participating counties for consumer training, resource development, and other costs, and half will be returned to the state general fund. 

(g) The commissioner may recover, suspend, or withhold payments if the county board, local agency, or grantee does not comply with the requirements of this section.

(h) Grant funds unexpended by consumers shall return to the state once a year. The annual return of unexpended grant funds shall occur in the quarter following the end of the state fiscal year.

Sec. 14. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256.476, subdivision 8, is amended to read:

Subd. 8. [COMMISSIONER RESPONSIBILITIES.] The commissioner shall:

(1) transfer and allocate funds pursuant to this section;

(2) determine allocations based on projected and actual local agency use;

(3) monitor and oversee overall program spending;

(4) evaluate the effectiveness of the program;

(5) provide training and technical assistance for local agencies and consumers to help identify potential applicants to the program; and

(6) develop guidelines for local agency program administration and consumer information; and.

(7) apply for a federal waiver or take any other action necessary to maximize federal funding for the program by September 1, 1999.

Sec. 15. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7. [PRIVATE DUTY NURSING.] Medical assistance covers private duty nursing services in a recipient's home. Recipients who are authorized to receive private duty nursing services in their home may use approved hours outside of the home during hours when normal life activities take them outside of their home and when, without the provision of private duty nursing, their health and safety would be jeopardized. To use private duty nursing services at school, the recipient or responsible party must provide written authorization in the care plan identifying the chosen provider and the daily amount of services to be used at school. Medical assistance does not cover private duty nursing services for residents of a hospital, nursing facility, intermediate care facility, or a health care facility licensed by the commissioner of health, except as authorized in section 256B.64 for ventilator-dependent recipients in hospitals or unless a resident who is otherwise eligible is on leave from the facility and the facility either pays for the private duty nursing services or forgoes the facility per diem for the leave days that private duty nursing services are used. Total hours of service and payment allowed for services outside the home cannot exceed that which is otherwise allowed in an in-home setting according to section 256B.0627. All private duty nursing services must be provided according to the limits established under section 256B.0627. Private duty nursing services may not be reimbursed if the nurse is the spouse of the recipient or the parent or foster care provider of a recipient who is under age 18, or the recipient's legal guardian.

Sec. 16. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, subdivision 19a, is amended to read:

Subd. 19a. [PERSONAL CARE ASSISTANT SERVICES.] Medical assistance covers personal care assistant services in a recipient's home. To qualify for personal care assistant services, recipients or responsible parties must be able to identify the recipient's needs, direct and evaluate task accomplishment, and provide for health and safety. Approved hours may be used outside the home when normal life activities take them outside the home and when, without the provision of personal care, their health and safety would be jeopardized. To use personal care assistant services at school, the recipient or responsible party must provide written authorization in the care plan identifying the chosen provider and the daily amount of services to be used at school. Total hours for services, whether actually performed inside or outside the recipient's home, cannot exceed that which is otherwise allowed for personal care

assistant services in an in-home setting according to section 256B.0627. Medical assistance does not cover personal care assistant services for residents of a hospital, nursing facility, intermediate care facility, health care facility licensed by the commissioner of health, or unless a resident who is otherwise eligible is on leave from the facility and the facility either pays for the personal care assistant services or forgoes the facility per diem for the leave days that personal care assistant services are used. All personal care services must be provided according to section 256B.0627. Personal care assistant services may not be reimbursed if the personal care assistant is the spouse or legal guardian of the recipient or the parent of a recipient under age 18, or the responsible party or the foster care provider of a recipient who cannot direct the recipient's own care unless, in the case of a foster care provider, a county or state case manager visits the recipient as needed, but not less than every six months, to monitor the health and safety of the recipient and to ensure the goals of the care plan are met. Parents of adult recipients, adult children of the recipient or adult siblings of the recipient may be reimbursed for personal care assistant services if they are not the recipient's legal guardian and, if they are granted a waiver under section 256B.0627. Until July 1, 2001, and Notwithstanding the provisions of section 256B.0627, subdivision 4, paragraph (b), clause (4), the noncorporate legal guardian or conservator of an adult, who is not the responsible party and not the personal care provider organization, may be granted a hardship waiver under section 256B.0627, to be reimbursed to provide personal care assistant services to the recipient, and shall not be considered to have a service provider interest for purposes of participation on the screening team under section 256B.092, subdivision 7.

Sec. 17. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, subdivision 19c, is amended to read:

Subd. 19c. [PERSONAL CARE.] Medical assistance covers personal care assistant services provided by an individual who is qualified to provide the services according to subdivision 19a and section 256B.0627, where the services are prescribed by a physician in accordance with a plan of treatment and are supervised by the recipient under the fiscal agent option according to section 256B.0627, subdivision 10, or a qualified professional. "Qualified professional" means a mental health professional as defined in section 245.462, subdivision 18, or 245.4871, subdivision 27; or a registered nurse as defined in sections 148.171 to 148.285. As part of the assessment, the county public health nurse will consult with assist the recipient or responsible party and to identify the most appropriate person to provide supervision of the personal care assistant. The qualified professional shall perform the duties described in Minnesota Rules, part 9505.0335, subpart 4.

Sec. 18. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, subdivision 20, is amended to read:

Subd. 20. [MENTAL HEALTH CASE MANAGEMENT.] (a) To the extent authorized by rule of the state agency, medical assistance covers case management services to persons with serious and persistent mental illness and children with severe emotional disturbance. Services provided under this section must meet the relevant standards in sections 245.461 to 245.4888, the Comprehensive Adult and Children's Mental Health Acts, Minnesota Rules, parts 9520.0900 to 9520.0926, and 9505.0322, excluding subpart 10.

(b) Entities meeting program standards set out in rules governing family community support services as defined in section 245.4871, subdivision 17, are eligible for medical assistance reimbursement for case management services for children with severe emotional disturbance when these services meet the program standards in Minnesota Rules, parts 9520.0900 to 9520.0926 and 9505.0322, excluding subparts 6 and 10.

(c) Medical assistance and MinnesotaCare payment for mental health case management shall be made on a monthly basis. In order to receive payment for an eligible child, the provider must document at least a face-to-face contact with the child, the child's parents, or the child's legal representative. To receive payment for an eligible adult, the provider must document:

(1) at least a face-to-face contact with the adult or the adult's legal representative; or

(2) at least a telephone contact with the adult or the adult's legal representative and document a face-to-face contact with the adult or the adult's legal representative within the preceding two months. 

(d) Payment for mental health case management provided by county or state staff shall be based on the monthly rate methodology under section 256B.094, subdivision 6, paragraph (b), with separate rates calculated for child welfare and mental health, and within mental health, separate rates for children and adults.

(e) Payment for mental health case management provided by county-contracted vendors shall be based on a monthly rate negotiated by the host county. The negotiated rate must not exceed the rate charged by the vendor for the same service to other payers. If the service is provided by a team of contracted vendors, the county may negotiate a team rate with a vendor who is a member of the team. The team shall determine how to distribute the rate among its members. No reimbursement received by contracted vendors shall be returned to the county, except to reimburse the county for advance funding provided by the county to the vendor.

(f) If the service is provided by a team which includes contracted vendors and county or state staff, the costs for county or state staff participation in the team shall be included in the rate for county-provided services. In this case, the contracted vendor and the county may each receive separate payment for services provided by each entity in the same month. In order to prevent duplication of services, the county must document, in the recipient's file, the need for team case management and a description of the roles of the team members.

(g) The commissioner shall calculate the nonfederal share of actual medical assistance and general assistance medical care payments for each county, based on the higher of calendar year 1995 or 1996, by service date, project that amount forward to 1999, and transfer one-half of the result from medical assistance and general assistance medical care to each county's mental health grants under sections 245.4886 and 256E.12 for calendar year 1999. The annualized minimum amount added to each county's mental health grant shall be $3,000 per year for children and $5,000 per year for adults. The commissioner may reduce the statewide growth factor in order to fund these minimums. The annualized total amount transferred shall become part of the base for future mental health grants for each county.

(h) Any net increase in revenue to the county as a result of the change in this section must be used to provide expanded mental health services as defined in sections 245.461 to 245.4888, the Comprehensive Adult and Children's Mental Health Acts, excluding inpatient and residential treatment. For adults, increased revenue may also be used for services and consumer supports which are part of adult mental health projects approved under Laws 1997, chapter 203, article 7, section 25. For children, increased revenue may also be used for respite care and nonresidential individualized rehabilitation services as defined in section 245.492, subdivisions 17 and 23. "Increased revenue" has the meaning given in Minnesota Rules, part 9520.0903, subpart 3.

(i) Notwithstanding section 256B.19, subdivision 1, the nonfederal share of costs for mental health case management shall be provided by the recipient's county of responsibility, as defined in sections 256G.01 to 256G.12, from sources other than federal funds or funds used to match other federal funds.

(j) The commissioner may suspend, reduce, or terminate the reimbursement to a provider that does not meet the reporting or other requirements of this section. The county of responsibility, as defined in sections 256G.01 to 256G.12, is responsible for any federal disallowances. The county may share this responsibility with its contracted vendors.

(k) The commissioner shall set aside a portion of the federal funds earned under this section to repay the special revenue maximization account under section 256.01, subdivision 2, clause (15). The repayment is limited to:

(1) the costs of developing and implementing this section; and

(2) programming the information systems.

(l) Notwithstanding section 256.025, subdivision 2, payments to counties for case management expenditures under this section shall only be made from federal earnings from services provided under this section. Payments to contracted vendors shall include both the federal earnings and the county share. 

(m) Notwithstanding section 256B.041, county payments for the cost of mental health case management services provided by county or state staff shall not be made to the state treasurer. For the purposes of mental health case management services provided by county or state staff under this section, the centralized disbursement of payments to counties under section 256B.041 consists only of federal earnings from services provided under this section.

(n) Case management services under this subdivision do not include therapy, treatment, legal, or outreach services.

(o) If the recipient is a resident of a nursing facility, intermediate care facility, or hospital, and the recipient's institutional care is paid by medical assistance, payment for case management services under this subdivision is limited to the last 30 180 days of the recipient's residency in that facility and may not exceed more than two six months in a calendar year.

(p) Payment for case management services under this subdivision shall not duplicate payments made under other program authorities for the same purpose.

(q) By July 1, 2000, the commissioner shall evaluate the effectiveness of the changes required by this section, including changes in number of persons receiving mental health case management, changes in hours of service per person, and changes in caseload size.

(r) For each calendar year beginning with the calendar year 2001, the annualized amount of state funds for each county determined under paragraph (g) shall be adjusted by the county's percentage change in the average number of clients per month who received case management under this section during the fiscal year that ended six months prior to the calendar year in question, in comparison to the prior fiscal year.

(s) For counties receiving the minimum allocation of $3,000 or $5,000 described in paragraph (g), the adjustment in paragraph (r) shall be determined so that the county receives the higher of the following amounts:

(1) a continuation of the minimum allocation in paragraph (g); or

(2) an amount based on that county's average number of clients per month who received case management under this section during the fiscal year that ended six months prior to the calendar year in question, in comparison to the prior fiscal year, times the average statewide grant per person per month for counties not receiving the minimum allocation.

(t) The adjustments in paragraphs (r) and (s) shall be calculated separately for children and adults.

Sec. 19. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 43. [TARGETED CASE MANAGEMENT.] For purposes of subdivisions 43a to 43h, the following terms have the meanings given them:

(1) "Home care service recipients" means those individuals receiving the following services under section 256B.0627: skilled nursing visits, home health aide visits, private duty nursing, personal care assistants, or therapies provided through a home health agency.

(2) "Home care targeted case management" means the provision of targeted case management services for the purpose of assisting home care service recipients to gain access to needed services and supports so that they may remain in the community.

(3) "Institutions" means hospitals, consistent with Code of Federal Regulations, title 42, section 440.10; regional treatment center inpatient services, consistent with section 245.474; nursing facilities; and intermediate care facilities for persons with mental retardation. 

(4) "Relocation targeted case management" means the provision of targeted case management services for the purpose of assisting recipients to gain access to needed services and supports if they choose to move from an institution to the community. Relocation targeted case management may be provided during the last 180 consecutive days of an eligible recipient's institutional stay.

(5) "Targeted case management" means case management services provided to help recipients gain access to needed medical, social, educational, and other services and supports.

Sec. 20. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 43a. [ELIGIBILITY.] The following persons are eligible for relocation targeted case management or home care targeted case management:

(1) medical assistance eligible persons residing in institutions who choose to move into the community are eligible for relocation targeted case management services; and

(2) medical assistance eligible persons receiving home care services, who are not eligible for any other medical assistance reimbursable case management service, are eligible for home care targeted case management services beginning January 1, 2003.

Sec. 21. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 43b. [RELOCATION TARGETED CASE MANAGEMENT PROVIDER QUALIFICATIONS.] The following qualifications and certification standards must be met by providers of relocation targeted case management:

(a) The commissioner must certify each provider of relocation targeted case management before enrollment. The certification process shall examine the provider's ability to meet the requirements in this subdivision and other federal and state requirements of this service. A certified relocation targeted case management provider may subcontract with another provider to deliver relocation targeted case management services. Subcontracted providers must demonstrate the ability to provide the services outlined in subdivision 43d.

(b) A relocation targeted case management provider is an enrolled medical assistance provider who is determined by the commissioner to have all of the following characteristics:

(1) the legal authority to provide public welfare under sections 393.01, subdivision 7; and 393.07, or a federally recognized Indian tribe;

(2) the demonstrated capacity and experience to provide the components of case management to coordinate and link community resources needed by the eligible population;

(3) the administrative capacity and experience to serve the target population for whom it will provide services and ensure quality of services under state and federal requirements;

(4) the legal authority to provide complete investigative and protective services under section 626.556, subdivision 10, and child welfare and foster care services under section 393.07, subdivisions 1 and 2, or a federally recognized Indian tribe;

(5) a financial management system that provides accurate documentation of services and costs under state and federal requirements; and

(6) the capacity to document and maintain individual case records under state and federal requirements.

A provider of targeted case management under subdivision 20 may be deemed a certified provider of relocation targeted case management. 

Sec. 22. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 43c. [HOME CARE TARGETED CASE MANAGEMENT PROVIDER QUALIFICATIONS.] The following qualifications and certification standards must be met by providers of home care targeted case management.

(a) The commissioner must certify each provider of home care targeted case management before enrollment. The certification process shall examine the provider's ability to meet the requirements in this subdivision and other state and federal requirements of this service.

(b) A home care targeted case management provider is an enrolled medical assistance provider who has a minimum of a bachelor's degree or a license in a health or human services field, and is determined by the commissioner to have all of the following characteristics:

(1) the demonstrated capacity and experience to provide the components of case management to coordinate and link community resources needed by the eligible population;

(2) the administrative capacity and experience to serve the target population for whom it will provide services and ensure quality of services under state and federal requirements;

(3) a financial management system that provides accurate documentation of services and costs under state and federal requirements;

(4) the capacity to document and maintain individual case records under state and federal requirements; and

(5) the capacity to coordinate with county administrative functions.

Sec. 23. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 43d. [ELIGIBLE SERVICES.] Services eligible for medical assistance reimbursement as targeted case management include:

(1) assessment of the recipient's need for targeted case management services;

(2) development, completion, and regular review of a written individual service plan, which is based upon the assessment of the recipient's needs and choices, and which will ensure access to medical, social, educational, and other related services and supports;

(3) routine contact or communication with the recipient, recipient's family, primary caregiver, legal representative, substitute care provider, service providers, or other relevant persons identified as necessary to the development or implementation of the goals of the individual service plan;

(4) coordinating referrals for, and the provision of, case management services for the recipient with appropriate service providers, consistent with section 1902(a)(23) of the Social Security Act;

(5) coordinating and monitoring the overall service delivery to ensure quality of services, appropriateness, and continued need;

(6) completing and maintaining necessary documentation that supports and verifies the activities in this subdivision;

(7) traveling to conduct a visit with the recipient or other relevant person necessary to develop or implement the goals of the individual service plan; and

(8) coordinating with the institution discharge planner in the 180-day period before the recipient's discharge. 

Sec. 24. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 43e. [TIME LINES.] The following time lines must be met for assigning a case manager:

(1) for relocation targeted case management, an eligible recipient must be assigned a case manager who visits the person within 20 working days of requesting a case manager from their county of financial responsibility as determined under chapter 256G. If a county agency does not provide case management services as required, the recipient may, after written notice to the county agency, obtain targeted relocation case management services from a home care targeted case management provider, as defined in subdivision 43c; and

(2) for home care targeted case management, an eligible recipient must be assigned a case manager within 20 working days of requesting a case manager from a home care targeted case management provider, as defined in subdivision 43c.

Sec. 25. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 43f. [EVALUATION.] The commissioner shall evaluate the delivery of targeted case management, including, but not limited to, access to case management services, consumer satisfaction with case management services, and quality of case management services.

Sec. 26. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 43g. [CONTACT DOCUMENTATION.] The case manager must document each face-to-face and telephone contact with the recipient and others involved in the recipient's individual service plan.

Sec. 27. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0625, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 43h. [PAYMENT RATES.] The commissioner shall set payment rates for targeted case management under this subdivision. Case managers may bill according to the following criteria:

(1) for relocation targeted case management, case managers may bill for direct case management activities, including face-to-face and telephone contacts, in the 180 days preceding an eligible recipient's discharge from an institution;

(2) for home care targeted case management, case managers may bill for direct case management activities, including face-to-face and telephone contacts; and

(3) billings for targeted case management services under this subdivision shall not duplicate payments made under other program authorities for the same purpose.

Sec. 28. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0627, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [DEFINITION.] (a) "Activities of daily living" includes eating, toileting, grooming, dressing, bathing, transferring, mobility, and positioning.

(b) "Assessment" means a review and evaluation of a recipient's need for home care services conducted in person. Assessments for private duty nursing shall be conducted by a registered private duty nurse. Assessments for home health agency services shall be conducted by a home health agency nurse. Assessments for personal care assistant services shall be conducted by the county public health nurse or a certified public health nurse under contract with the county. A face-to-face assessment must include: documentation of health status, determination of need, evaluation of service effectiveness, identification of appropriate services, service plan development or modification, coordination of services, referrals and follow-up to appropriate payers and community resources, completion of required reports, recommendation of service authorization, and consumer education. Once the need for personal care assistant services is determined under this section, the county public health nurse or certified public health nurse

under contract with the county is responsible for communicating this recommendation to the commissioner and the recipient. A face-to-face assessment for personal care assistant services is conducted on those recipients who have never had a county public health nurse assessment. A face-to-face assessment must occur at least annually or when there is a significant change in the recipient's condition or when there is a change in the need for personal care assistant services. A service update may substitute for the annual face-to-face assessment when there is not a significant change in recipient condition or a change in the need for personal care assistant service. A service update or review for temporary increase includes a review of initial baseline data, evaluation of service effectiveness, redetermination of service need, modification of service plan and appropriate referrals, update of initial forms, obtaining service authorization, and on going consumer education. Assessments for medical assistance home care services for mental retardation or related conditions and alternative care services for developmentally disabled home and community-based waivered recipients may be conducted by the county public health nurse to ensure coordination and avoid duplication. Assessments must be completed on forms provided by the commissioner within 30 days of a request for home care services by a recipient or responsible party.

(b) (c) "Care plan" means a written description of personal care assistant services developed by the qualified professional or the recipient's physician with the recipient or responsible party to be used by the personal care assistant with a copy provided to the recipient or responsible party.

(d) "Complex and regular private duty nursing care" means, effective July 1, 2001:

(1) complex care is private duty nursing provided to recipients who are ventilator dependent or for whom a physician has certified that were it not for private duty nursing the recipient would meet the criteria for inpatient hospital intensive care unit (ICU) level of care; and

(2) regular care is private duty nursing provided to all other recipients.

(e) "Health-related functions" means functions that can be delegated or assigned by a licensed health care professional under state law to be performed by a personal care attendant.

(c) (f) "Home care services" means a health service, determined by the commissioner as medically necessary, that is ordered by a physician and documented in a service plan that is reviewed by the physician at least once every 62 60 days for the provision of home health services, or private duty nursing, or at least once every 365 days for personal care. Home care services are provided to the recipient at the recipient's residence that is a place other than a hospital or long-term care facility or as specified in section 256B.0625.

(g) "Instrumental activities of daily living" includes meal planning and preparation, managing finances, shopping for food, clothing, and other essential items, performing essential household chores, communication by telephone and other media, and getting around and participating in the community.

(d) (h) "Medically necessary" has the meaning given in Minnesota Rules, parts 9505.0170 to 9505.0475.

(e) (i) "Personal care assistant" means a person who:

(1) is at least 18 years old, except for persons 16 to 18 years of age who participated in a related school-based job training program or have completed a certified home health aide competency evaluation;

(2) is able to effectively communicate with the recipient and personal care provider organization;

(3) effective July 1, 1996, has completed one of the training requirements as specified in Minnesota Rules, part 9505.0335, subpart 3, items A to D;

(4) has the ability to, and provides covered personal care assistant services according to the recipient's care plan, responds appropriately to recipient needs, and reports changes in the recipient's condition to the supervising qualified professional or physician; 

(5) is not a consumer of personal care assistant services; and

(6) is subject to criminal background checks and procedures specified in section 245A.04.

(f) (j) "Personal care provider organization" means an organization enrolled to provide personal care assistant services under the medical assistance program that complies with the following: (1) owners who have a five percent interest or more, and managerial officials are subject to a background study as provided in section 245A.04. This applies to currently enrolled personal care provider organizations and those agencies seeking enrollment as a personal care provider organization. An organization will be barred from enrollment if an owner or managerial official of the organization has been convicted of a crime specified in section 245A.04, or a comparable crime in another jurisdiction, unless the owner or managerial official meets the reconsideration criteria specified in section 245A.04; (2) the organization must maintain a surety bond and liability insurance throughout the duration of enrollment and provides proof thereof. The insurer must notify the department of human services of the cancellation or lapse of policy; and (3) the organization must maintain documentation of services as specified in Minnesota Rules, part 9505.2175, subpart 7, as well as evidence of compliance with personal care assistant training requirements.

(g) (k) "Responsible party" means an individual residing with a recipient of personal care assistant services who is capable of providing the supportive care necessary to assist the recipient to live in the community, is at least 18 years old, and is not a personal care assistant. Responsible parties who are parents of minors or guardians of minors or incapacitated persons may delegate the responsibility to another adult during a temporary absence of at least 24 hours but not more than six months. The person delegated as a responsible party must be able to meet the definition of responsible party, except that the delegated responsible party is required to reside with the recipient only while serving as the responsible party. Foster care license holders may be designated the responsible party for residents of the foster care home if case management is provided as required in section 256B.0625, subdivision 19a. For persons who, as of April 1, 1992, are sharing personal care assistant services in order to obtain the availability of 24-hour coverage, an employee of the personal care provider organization may be designated as the responsible party if case management is provided as required in section 256B.0625, subdivision 19a.

(h) (l) "Service plan" means a written description of the services needed based on the assessment developed by the nurse who conducts the assessment together with the recipient or responsible party. The service plan shall include a description of the covered home care services, frequency and duration of services, and expected outcomes and goals. The recipient and the provider chosen by the recipient or responsible party must be given a copy of the completed service plan within 30 calendar days of the request for home care services by the recipient or responsible party.

(i) (m) "Skilled nurse visits" are provided in a recipient's residence under a plan of care or service plan that specifies a level of care which the nurse is qualified to provide. These services are:

(1) nursing services according to the written plan of care or service plan and accepted standards of medical and nursing practice in accordance with chapter 148;

(2) services which due to the recipient's medical condition may only be safely and effectively provided by a registered nurse or a licensed practical nurse;

(3) assessments performed only by a registered nurse; and

(4) teaching and training the recipient, the recipient's family, or other caregivers requiring the skills of a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse.

(n) "Telehomecare" means the use of telecommunications technology by a home health care professional to deliver home health care services, within the professional's scope of practice, to a patient located at a site other than the site where the practitioner is located. 

Sec. 29. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0627, subdivision 2, is amended to read:

Subd. 2. [SERVICES COVERED.] Home care services covered under this section include:

(1) nursing services under section 256B.0625, subdivision 6a;

(2) private duty nursing services under section 256B.0625, subdivision 7;

(3) home health aide services under section 256B.0625, subdivision 6a;

(4) personal care assistant services under section 256B.0625, subdivision 19a;

(5) supervision of personal care assistant services provided by a qualified professional under section 256B.0625, subdivision 19a;

(6) consulting qualified professional of personal care assistant services under the fiscal agent intermediary option as specified in subdivision 10;

(7) face-to-face assessments by county public health nurses for services under section 256B.0625, subdivision 19a; and

(8) service updates and review of temporary increases for personal care assistant services by the county public health nurse for services under section 256B.0625, subdivision 19a.

Sec. 30. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0627, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4. [PERSONAL CARE ASSISTANT SERVICES.] (a) The personal care assistant services that are eligible for payment are the following: services and supports furnished to an individual, as needed, to assist in accomplishing activities of daily living; instrumental activities of daily living; health-related functions through hands-on assistance, supervision, and cuing; and redirection and intervention for behavior including observation and monitoring.

(b) Payment for services will be made within the limits approved using the prior authorized process established in subdivision 5.

(c) The amount and type of services authorized shall be based on an assessment of the recipient's needs in these areas:

(1) bowel and bladder care;

(2) skin care to maintain the health of the skin;

(3) repetitive maintenance range of motion, muscle strengthening exercises, and other tasks specific to maintaining a recipient's optimal level of function;

(4) respiratory assistance;

(5) transfers and ambulation;

(6) bathing, grooming, and hairwashing necessary for personal hygiene;

(7) turning and positioning;

(8) assistance with furnishing medication that is self-administered; 

(9) application and maintenance of prosthetics and orthotics;

(10) cleaning medical equipment;

(11) dressing or undressing;

(12) assistance with eating and meal preparation and necessary grocery shopping;

(13) accompanying a recipient to obtain medical diagnosis or treatment;

(14) assisting, monitoring, or prompting the recipient to complete the services in clauses (1) to (13);

(15) redirection, monitoring, and observation that are medically necessary and an integral part of completing the personal care assistant services described in clauses (1) to (14);

(16) redirection and intervention for behavior, including observation and monitoring;

(17) interventions for seizure disorders, including monitoring and observation if the recipient has had a seizure that requires intervention within the past three months;

(18) tracheostomy suctioning using a clean procedure if the procedure is properly delegated by a registered nurse. Before this procedure can be delegated to a personal care assistant, a registered nurse must determine that the tracheostomy suctioning can be accomplished utilizing a clean rather than a sterile procedure and must ensure that the personal care assistant has been taught the proper procedure; and

(19) incidental household services that are an integral part of a personal care service described in clauses (1) to (18).

For purposes of this subdivision, monitoring and observation means watching for outward visible signs that are likely to occur and for which there is a covered personal care service or an appropriate personal care intervention. For purposes of this subdivision, a clean procedure refers to a procedure that reduces the numbers of microorganisms or prevents or reduces the transmission of microorganisms from one person or place to another. A clean procedure may be used beginning 14 days after insertion.

(b) (d) The personal care assistant services that are not eligible for payment are the following:

(1) services not ordered by the physician;

(2) assessments by personal care assistant provider organizations or by independently enrolled registered nurses;

(3) services that are not in the service plan;

(4) services provided by the recipient's spouse, legal guardian for an adult or child recipient, or parent of a recipient under age 18;

(5) services provided by a foster care provider of a recipient who cannot direct the recipient's own care, unless monitored by a county or state case manager under section 256B.0625, subdivision 19a;

(6) services provided by the residential or program license holder in a residence for more than four persons;

(7) services that are the responsibility of a residential or program license holder under the terms of a service agreement and administrative rules;

(8) sterile procedures; 

(9) injections of fluids into veins, muscles, or skin;

(10) services provided by parents of adult recipients, adult children, or siblings of the recipient, unless these relatives meet one of the following hardship criteria and the commissioner waives this requirement:

(i) the relative resigns from a part-time or full-time job to provide personal care for the recipient;

(ii) the relative goes from a full-time to a part-time job with less compensation to provide personal care for the recipient;

(iii) the relative takes a leave of absence without pay to provide personal care for the recipient;

(iv) the relative incurs substantial expenses by providing personal care for the recipient; or

(v) because of labor conditions, special language needs, or intermittent hours of care needed, the relative is needed in order to provide an adequate number of qualified personal care assistants to meet the medical needs of the recipient;

(11) homemaker services that are not an integral part of a personal care assistant services;

(12) home maintenance, or chore services;

(13) services not specified under paragraph (a); and

(14) services not authorized by the commissioner or the commissioner's designee.

(e) The recipient or responsible party may choose to supervise the personal care assistant or to have a qualified professional, as defined in section 256B.0625, subdivision 19c, provide the supervision. As required under section 256B.0625, subdivision 19c, the county public health nurse, as a part of the assessment, will assist the recipient or responsible party to identify the most appropriate person to provide supervision of the personal care assistant. Health-related delegated tasks performed by the personal care assistant will be under the supervision of a qualified professional or the direction of the recipient's physician. If the recipient has a qualified professional, Minnesota Rules, part 9505.0335, subpart 4, applies.

Sec. 31. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0627, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5. [LIMITATION ON PAYMENTS.] Medical assistance payments for home care services shall be limited according to this subdivision.

(a) [LIMITS ON SERVICES WITHOUT PRIOR AUTHORIZATION.] A recipient may receive the following home care services during a calendar year:

(1) up to two face-to-face assessments to determine a recipient's need for personal care assistant services;

(2) one service update done to determine a recipient's need for personal care assistant services; and

(3) up to five nine skilled nurse visits.

(b) [PRIOR AUTHORIZATION; EXCEPTIONS.] All home care services above the limits in paragraph (a) must receive the commissioner's prior authorization, except when:

(1) the home care services were required to treat an emergency medical condition that if not immediately treated could cause a recipient serious physical or mental disability, continuation of severe pain, or death. The provider must request retroactive authorization no later than five working days after giving the initial service. The provider must be able to substantiate the emergency by documentation such as reports, notes, and admission or discharge histories; 

(2) the home care services were provided on or after the date on which the recipient's eligibility began, but before the date on which the recipient was notified that the case was opened. Authorization will be considered if the request is submitted by the provider within 20 working days of the date the recipient was notified that the case was opened;

(3) a third-party payor for home care services has denied or adjusted a payment. Authorization requests must be submitted by the provider within 20 working days of the notice of denial or adjustment. A copy of the notice must be included with the request;

(4) the commissioner has determined that a county or state human services agency has made an error; or

(5) the professional nurse determines an immediate need for up to 40 skilled nursing or home health aide visits per calendar year and submits a request for authorization within 20 working days of the initial service date, and medical assistance is determined to be the appropriate payer.

(c) [RETROACTIVE AUTHORIZATION.] A request for retroactive authorization will be evaluated according to the same criteria applied to prior authorization requests.

(d) [ASSESSMENT AND SERVICE PLAN.] Assessments under section 256B.0627, subdivision 1, paragraph (a), shall be conducted initially, and at least annually thereafter, in person with the recipient and result in a completed service plan using forms specified by the commissioner. Within 30 days of recipient or responsible party request for home care services, the assessment, the service plan, and other information necessary to determine medical necessity such as diagnostic or testing information, social or medical histories, and hospital or facility discharge summaries shall be submitted to the commissioner. For personal care assistant services:

(1) The amount and type of service authorized based upon the assessment and service plan will follow the recipient if the recipient chooses to change providers.

(2) If the recipient's medical need changes, the recipient's provider may assess the need for a change in service authorization and request the change from the county public health nurse. Within 30 days of the request, the public health nurse will determine whether to request the change in services based upon the provider assessment, or conduct a home visit to assess the need and determine whether the change is appropriate.

(3) To continue to receive personal care assistant services after the first year, the recipient or the responsible party, in conjunction with the public health nurse, may complete a service update on forms developed by the commissioner according to criteria and procedures in subdivision 1.

(e) [PRIOR AUTHORIZATION.] The commissioner, or the commissioner's designee, shall review the assessment, service update, request for temporary services, service plan, and any additional information that is submitted. The commissioner shall, within 30 days after receiving a complete request, assessment, and service plan, authorize home care services as follows:

(1) [HOME HEALTH SERVICES.] All home health services provided by a licensed nurse or a home health aide must be prior authorized by the commissioner or the commissioner's designee. Prior authorization must be based on medical necessity and cost-effectiveness when compared with other care options. When home health services are used in combination with personal care and private duty nursing, the cost of all home care services shall be considered for cost-effectiveness. The commissioner shall limit nurse and home health aide visits to no more than one visit each per day. The commissioner, or the commissioner's designee, may authorize up to two skilled nurse visits per day.

(2) [PERSONAL CARE ASSISTANT SERVICES.] (i) All personal care assistant services and supervision by a qualified professional, if requested by the recipient, must be prior authorized by the commissioner or the commissioner's designee except for the assessments established in paragraph (a). The amount of personal care assistant services authorized must be based on the recipient's home care rating. A child may not be found to be

dependent in an activity of daily living if because of the child's age an adult would either perform the activity for the child or assist the child with the activity and the amount of assistance needed is similar to the assistance appropriate for a typical child of the same age. Based on medical necessity, the commissioner may authorize:

(A) up to two times the average number of direct care hours provided in nursing facilities for the recipient's comparable case mix level; or

(B) up to three times the average number of direct care hours provided in nursing facilities for recipients who have complex medical needs or are dependent in at least seven activities of daily living and need physical assistance with eating or have a neurological diagnosis; or

(C) up to 60 percent of the average reimbursement rate, as of July 1, 1991, for care provided in a regional treatment center for recipients who have Level I behavior, plus any inflation adjustment as provided by the legislature for personal care service; or

(D) up to the amount the commissioner would pay, as of July 1, 1991, plus any inflation adjustment provided for home care services, for care provided in a regional treatment center for recipients referred to the commissioner by a regional treatment center preadmission evaluation team. For purposes of this clause, home care services means all services provided in the home or community that would be included in the payment to a regional treatment center; or

(E) up to the amount medical assistance would reimburse for facility care for recipients referred to the commissioner by a preadmission screening team established under section 256B.0911 or 256B.092; and

(F) a reasonable amount of time for the provision of supervision by a qualified professional of personal care assistant services, if a qualified professional is requested by the recipient or responsible party.

(ii) The number of direct care hours shall be determined according to the annual cost report submitted to the department by nursing facilities. The average number of direct care hours, as established by May 1, 1992, shall be calculated and incorporated into the home care limits on July 1, 1992. These limits shall be calculated to the nearest quarter hour.

(iii) The home care rating shall be determined by the commissioner or the commissioner's designee based on information submitted to the commissioner by the county public health nurse on forms specified by the commissioner. The home care rating shall be a combination of current assessment tools developed under sections 256B.0911 and 256B.501 with an addition for seizure activity that will assess the frequency and severity of seizure activity and with adjustments, additions, and clarifications that are necessary to reflect the needs and conditions of recipients who need home care including children and adults under 65 years of age. The commissioner shall establish these forms and protocols under this section and shall use an advisory group, including representatives of recipients, providers, and counties, for consultation in establishing and revising the forms and protocols.

(iv) A recipient shall qualify as having complex medical needs if the care required is difficult to perform and because of recipient's medical condition requires more time than community-based standards allow or requires more skill than would ordinarily be required and the recipient needs or has one or more of the following:

(A) daily tube feedings;

(B) daily parenteral therapy;

(C) wound or decubiti care;

(D) postural drainage, percussion, nebulizer treatments, suctioning, tracheotomy care, oxygen, mechanical ventilation; 

(E) catheterization;

(F) ostomy care;

(G) quadriplegia; or

(H) other comparable medical conditions or treatments the commissioner determines would otherwise require institutional care.

(v) A recipient shall qualify as having Level I behavior if there is reasonable supporting evidence that the recipient exhibits, or that without supervision, observation, or redirection would exhibit, one or more of the following behaviors that cause, or have the potential to cause:

(A) injury to the recipient's own body;

(B) physical injury to other people; or

(C) destruction of property.

(vi) Time authorized for personal care relating to Level I behavior in subclause (v), items (A) to (C), shall be based on the predictability, frequency, and amount of intervention required.

(vii) A recipient shall qualify as having Level II behavior if the recipient exhibits on a daily basis one or more of the following behaviors that interfere with the completion of personal care assistant services under subdivision 4, paragraph (a):

(A) unusual or repetitive habits;

(B) withdrawn behavior; or

(C) offensive behavior.

(viii) A recipient with a home care rating of Level II behavior in subclause (vii), items (A) to (C), shall be rated as comparable to a recipient with complex medical needs under subclause (iv). If a recipient has both complex medical needs and Level II behavior, the home care rating shall be the next complex category up to the maximum rating under subclause (i), item (B).

(3) [PRIVATE DUTY NURSING SERVICES.] All private duty nursing services shall be prior authorized by the commissioner or the commissioner's designee. Prior authorization for private duty nursing services shall be based on medical necessity and cost-effectiveness when compared with alternative care options. The commissioner may authorize medically necessary private duty nursing services in quarter-hour units when:

(i) the recipient requires more individual and continuous care than can be provided during a nurse visit; or

(ii) the cares are outside of the scope of services that can be provided by a home health aide or personal care assistant.

The commissioner may authorize:

(A) up to two times the average amount of direct care hours provided in nursing facilities statewide for case mix classification "K" as established by the annual cost report submitted to the department by nursing facilities in May 1992; 

(B) private duty nursing in combination with other home care services up to the total cost allowed under clause (2);

(C) up to 16 hours per day if the recipient requires more nursing than the maximum number of direct care hours as established in item (A) and the recipient meets the hospital admission criteria established under Minnesota Rules, parts 9505.0500 9505.0501 to 9505.0540.

The commissioner may authorize up to 16 hours per day of medically necessary private duty nursing services or up to 24 hours per day of medically necessary private duty nursing services until such time as the commissioner is able to make a determination of eligibility for recipients who are cooperatively applying for home care services under the community alternative care program developed under section 256B.49, or until it is determined by the appropriate regulatory agency that a health benefit plan is or is not required to pay for appropriate medically necessary health care services. Recipients or their representatives must cooperatively assist the commissioner in obtaining this determination. Recipients who are eligible for the community alternative care program may not receive more hours of nursing under this section than would otherwise be authorized under section 256B.49.

Beginning July 1, 2001, private duty nursing services shall be authorized for complex and regular care according to subdivision 1.

(4) [VENTILATOR-DEPENDENT RECIPIENTS.] If the recipient is ventilator-dependent, the monthly medical assistance authorization for home care services shall not exceed what the commissioner would pay for care at the highest cost hospital designated as a long-term hospital under the Medicare program. For purposes of this clause, home care services means all services provided in the home that would be included in the payment for care at the long-term hospital. "Ventilator-dependent" means an individual who receives mechanical ventilation for life support at least six hours per day and is expected to be or has been dependent for at least 30 consecutive days.

(f) [PRIOR AUTHORIZATION; TIME LIMITS.] The commissioner or the commissioner's designee shall determine the time period for which a prior authorization shall be effective. If the recipient continues to require home care services beyond the duration of the prior authorization, the home care provider must request a new prior authorization. Under no circumstances, other than the exceptions in paragraph (b), shall a prior authorization be valid prior to the date the commissioner receives the request or for more than 12 months. A recipient who appeals a reduction in previously authorized home care services may continue previously authorized services, other than temporary services under paragraph (h), pending an appeal under section 256.045. The commissioner must provide a detailed explanation of why the authorized services are reduced in amount from those requested by the home care provider.

(g) [APPROVAL OF HOME CARE SERVICES.] The commissioner or the commissioner's designee shall determine the medical necessity of home care services, the level of caregiver according to subdivision 2, and the institutional comparison according to this subdivision, the cost-effectiveness of services, and the amount, scope, and duration of home care services reimbursable by medical assistance, based on the assessment, primary payer coverage determination information as required, the service plan, the recipient's age, the cost of services, the recipient's medical condition, and diagnosis or disability. The commissioner may publish additional criteria for determining medical necessity according to section 256B.04.

(h) [PRIOR AUTHORIZATION REQUESTS; TEMPORARY SERVICES.] The agency nurse, the independently enrolled private duty nurse, or county public health nurse may request a temporary authorization for home care services by telephone. The commissioner may approve a temporary level of home care services based on the assessment, and service or care plan information, and primary payer coverage determination information as required. Authorization for a temporary level of home care services including nurse supervision is limited to the time specified by the commissioner, but shall not exceed 45 days, unless extended because the county public health nurse has not completed the required assessment and service plan, or the commissioner's determination has not been made. The level of services authorized under this provision shall have no bearing on a future prior authorization. 

(i) [PRIOR AUTHORIZATION REQUIRED IN FOSTER CARE SETTING.] Home care services provided in an adult or child foster care setting must receive prior authorization by the department according to the limits established in paragraph (a).

The commissioner may not authorize:

(1) home care services that are the responsibility of the foster care provider under the terms of the foster care placement agreement and administrative rules;

(2) personal care assistant services when the foster care license holder is also the personal care provider or personal care assistant unless the recipient can direct the recipient's own care, or case management is provided as required in section 256B.0625, subdivision 19a;

(3) personal care assistant services when the responsible party is an employee of, or under contract with, or has any direct or indirect financial relationship with the personal care provider or personal care assistant, unless case management is provided as required in section 256B.0625, subdivision 19a; or

(4) personal care assistant and private duty nursing services when the number of foster care residents is greater than four unless the county responsible for the recipient's foster placement made the placement prior to April 1, 1992, requests that personal care assistant and private duty nursing services be provided, and case management is provided as required in section 256B.0625, subdivision 19a.

Sec. 32. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0627, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7. [NONCOVERED HOME CARE SERVICES.] The following home care services are not eligible for payment under medical assistance:

(1) skilled nurse visits for the sole purpose of supervision of the home health aide;

(2) a skilled nursing visit:

(i) only for the purpose of monitoring medication compliance with an established medication program for a recipient; or

(ii) to administer or assist with medication administration, including injections, prefilling syringes for injections, or oral medication set-up of an adult recipient, when as determined and documented by the registered nurse, the need can be met by an available pharmacy or the recipient is physically and mentally able to self-administer or prefill a medication;

(3) home care services to a recipient who is eligible for covered services including hospice, if elected by the recipient, under the Medicare program or any other insurance held by the recipient;

(4) services to other members of the recipient's household;

(5) a visit made by a skilled nurse solely to train other home health agency workers;

(6) any home care service included in the daily rate of the community-based residential facility where the recipient is residing;

(7) nursing and rehabilitation therapy services that are reasonably accessible to a recipient outside the recipient's place of residence, excluding the assessment, counseling and education, and personal assistant care;

(8) any home health agency service, excluding personal care assistant services and private duty nursing services, which are performed in a place other than the recipient's residence; and 

(9) Medicare evaluation or administrative nursing visits on dual-eligible recipients that do not qualify for Medicare visit billing.

Sec. 33. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0627, subdivision 8, is amended to read:

Subd. 8. [SHARED PERSONAL CARE ASSISTANT SERVICES.] (a) Medical assistance payments for shared personal care assistance services shall be limited according to this subdivision.

(b) Recipients of personal care assistant services may share staff and the commissioner shall provide a rate system for shared personal care assistant services. For two persons sharing services, the rate paid to a provider shall not exceed 1-1/2 times the rate paid for serving a single individual, and for three persons sharing services, the rate paid to a provider shall not exceed twice the rate paid for serving a single individual. These rates apply only to situations in which all recipients were present and received shared services on the date for which the service is billed. No more than three persons may receive shared services from a personal care assistant in a single setting.

(c) Shared service is the provision of personal care assistant services by a personal care assistant to two or three recipients at the same time and in the same setting. For the purposes of this subdivision, "setting" means:

(1) the home or foster care home of one of the individual recipients; or

(2) a child care program in which all recipients served by one personal care assistant are participating, which is licensed under chapter 245A or operated by a local school district or private school; or

(3) outside the home or foster care home of one of the recipients when normal life activities take the recipients outside the home.

The provisions of this subdivision do not apply when a personal care assistant is caring for multiple recipients in more than one setting.

(d) The recipient or the recipient's responsible party, in conjunction with the county public health nurse, shall determine:

(1) whether shared personal care assistant services is an appropriate option based on the individual needs and preferences of the recipient; and

(2) the amount of shared services allocated as part of the overall authorization of personal care assistant services.

The recipient or the responsible party, in conjunction with the supervising qualified professional, if a qualified professional is requested by any one of the recipients or responsible parties, shall arrange the setting and grouping of shared services based on the individual needs and preferences of the recipients. Decisions on the selection of recipients to share services must be based on the ages of the recipients, compatibility, and coordination of their care needs.

(e) The following items must be considered by the recipient or the responsible party and the supervising qualified professional, if a qualified professional has been requested by any one of the recipients or responsible parties, and documented in the recipient's health service record:

(1) the additional qualifications needed by the personal care assistant to provide care to several recipients in the same setting;

(2) the additional training and supervision needed by the personal care assistant to ensure that the needs of the recipient are met appropriately and safely. The provider must provide on-site supervision by a qualified professional within the first 14 days of shared services, and monthly thereafter, if supervision by a qualified provider has been requested by any one of the recipients or responsible parties; 

(3) the setting in which the shared services will be provided;

(4) the ongoing monitoring and evaluation of the effectiveness and appropriateness of the service and process used to make changes in service or setting; and

(5) a contingency plan which accounts for absence of the recipient in a shared services setting due to illness or other circumstances and staffing contingencies.

(f) The provider must offer the recipient or the responsible party the option of shared or one-on-one personal care assistant services. The recipient or the responsible party can withdraw from participating in a shared services arrangement at any time.

(g) In addition to documentation requirements under Minnesota Rules, part 9505.2175, a personal care provider must meet documentation requirements for shared personal care assistant services and must document the following in the health service record for each individual recipient sharing services:

(1) permission by the recipient or the recipient's responsible party, if any, for the maximum number of shared services hours per week chosen by the recipient;

(2) permission by the recipient or the recipient's responsible party, if any, for personal care assistant services provided outside the recipient's residence;

(3) permission by the recipient or the recipient's responsible party, if any, for others to receive shared services in the recipient's residence;

(4) revocation by the recipient or the recipient's responsible party, if any, of the shared service authorization, or the shared service to be provided to others in the recipient's residence, or the shared service to be provided outside the recipient's residence;

(5) supervision of the shared personal care assistant services by the qualified professional, if a qualified professional is requested by one of the recipients or responsible parties, including the date, time of day, number of hours spent supervising the provision of shared services, whether the supervision was face-to-face or another method of supervision, changes in the recipient's condition, shared services scheduling issues and recommendations;

(6) documentation by the qualified professional, if a qualified professional is requested by one of the recipients or responsible parties, of telephone calls or other discussions with the personal care assistant regarding services being provided to the recipient who has requested the supervision; and

(7) daily documentation of the shared services provided by each identified personal care assistant including:

(i) the names of each recipient receiving shared services together;

(ii) the setting for the shared services, including the starting and ending times that the recipient received shared services; and

(iii) notes by the personal care assistant regarding changes in the recipient's condition, problems that may arise from the sharing of services, scheduling issues, care issues, and other notes as required by the qualified professional, if a qualified professional is requested by one of the recipients or responsible parties.

(h) Unless otherwise provided in this subdivision, all other statutory and regulatory provisions relating to personal care assistant services apply to shared services. 

(i) In the event that supervision by a qualified professional has been requested by one or more recipients, but not by all of the recipients, the supervision duties of the qualified professional shall be limited to only those recipients who have requested the supervision.

Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to reduce the total number of hours authorized for an individual recipient.

Sec. 34. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0627, subdivision 10, is amended to read:

Subd. 10. [FISCAL AGENT INTERMEDIARY OPTION AVAILABLE FOR PERSONAL CARE ASSISTANT SERVICES.] (a) "Fiscal agent option" is an option that allows the recipient to:

(1) use a fiscal agent instead of a personal care provider organization;

(2) supervise the personal care assistant; and

(3) use a consulting professional.

The commissioner may allow a recipient of personal care assistant services to use a fiscal agent intermediary to assist the recipient in paying and accounting for medically necessary covered personal care assistant services authorized in subdivision 4 and within the payment parameters of subdivision 5. Unless otherwise provided in this subdivision, all other statutory and regulatory provisions relating to personal care assistant services apply to a recipient using the fiscal agent intermediary option.

(b) The recipient or responsible party shall:

(1) hire, and terminate the personal care assistant and consulting professional, with the fiscal agent recruit, hire, and terminate a qualified professional, if a qualified professional is requested by the recipient or responsible party;

(2) recruit the personal care assistant and consulting professional and orient and train the personal care assistant in areas that do not require professional delegation as determined by the county public health nurse verify and document the credentials of the qualified professional, if a qualified professional is requested by the recipient or responsible party;

(3) supervise and evaluate the personal care assistant in areas that do not require professional delegation as determined in the assessment;

(4) cooperate with a consulting develop a service plan based on physician orders and public health nurse assessment with the assistance of a qualified professional and implement recommendations pertaining to the health and safety of the recipient, if a qualified professional is requested by the recipient or responsible party, that addresses the health and safety of the recipient;

(5) hire a qualified professional to train and supervise the performance of delegated tasks done by (4) recruit, hire, and terminate the personal care assistant;

(6) monitor services and verify in writing the hours worked by the personal care assistant and the consulting (5) orient and train the personal care assistant with assistance as needed from the qualified professional;

(7) develop and revise a care plan with assistance from a consulting (6) supervise and evaluate the personal care assistant with assistance as needed from the recipient's physician or the qualified professional;

(8) verify and document the credentials of the consulting (7) monitor and verify in writing and report to the fiscal intermediary the number of hours worked by the personal care assistant and the qualified professional; and 

(9) (8) enter into a written agreement, as specified in paragraph (f).

(c) The duties of the fiscal agent intermediary shall be to:

(1) bill the medical assistance program for personal care assistant and consulting qualified professional services;

(2) request and secure background checks on personal care assistants and consulting qualified professionals according to section 245A.04;

(3) pay the personal care assistant and consulting qualified professional based on actual hours of services provided;

(4) withhold and pay all applicable federal and state taxes;

(5) verify and document keep records of hours worked by the personal care assistant and consulting qualified professional;

(6) make the arrangements and pay unemployment insurance, taxes, workers' compensation, liability insurance, and other benefits, if any;

(7) enroll in the medical assistance program as a fiscal agent intermediary; and

(8) enter into a written agreement as specified in paragraph (f) before services are provided.

(d) The fiscal agent intermediary:

(1) may not be related to the recipient, consulting qualified professional, or the personal care assistant;

(2) must ensure arm's length transactions with the recipient and personal care assistant; and

(3) shall be considered a joint employer of the personal care assistant and consulting qualified professional to the extent specified in this section.

The fiscal agent intermediary or owners of the entity that provides fiscal agent intermediary services under this subdivision must pass a criminal background check as required in section 256B.0627, subdivision 1, paragraph (e).

(e) If the recipient or responsible party requests a qualified professional, the consulting qualified professional providing assistance to the recipient shall meet the qualifications specified in section 256B.0625, subdivision 19c. The consulting qualified professional shall assist the recipient in developing and revising a plan to meet the recipient's assessed needs, and supervise the performance of delegated tasks, as determined by the public health nurse as assessed by the public health nurse. In performing this function, the consulting qualified professional must visit the recipient in the recipient's home at least once annually. The consulting qualified professional must report to the local county public health nurse concerns relating to the health and safety of the recipient, and any suspected abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation of the recipient to the appropriate authorities.

(f) The fiscal agent intermediary, recipient or responsible party, personal care assistant, and consulting qualified professional shall enter into a written agreement before services are started. The agreement shall include:

(1) the duties of the recipient, qualified professional, personal care assistant, and fiscal agent based on paragraphs (a) to (e);

(2) the salary and benefits for the personal care assistant and those providing professional consultation the qualified professional; 

(3) the administrative fee of the fiscal agent intermediary and services paid for with that fee, including background check fees;

(4) procedures to respond to billing or payment complaints; and

(5) procedures for hiring and terminating the personal care assistant and those providing professional consultation the qualified professional.

(g) The rates paid for personal care assistant services, qualified professional assistance services, and fiscal agency intermediary services under this subdivision shall be the same rates paid for personal care assistant services and qualified professional services under subdivision 2 respectively. Except for the administrative fee of the fiscal agent intermediary specified in paragraph (f), the remainder of the rates paid to the fiscal agent intermediary must be used to pay for the salary and benefits for the personal care assistant or those providing professional consultation the qualified professional.

(h) As part of the assessment defined in subdivision 1, the following conditions must be met to use or continue use of a fiscal agent intermediary:

(1) the recipient must be able to direct the recipient's own care, or the responsible party for the recipient must be readily available to direct the care of the personal care assistant;

(2) the recipient or responsible party must be knowledgeable of the health care needs of the recipient and be able to effectively communicate those needs;

(3) a face-to-face assessment must be conducted by the local county public health nurse at least annually, or when there is a significant change in the recipient's condition or change in the need for personal care assistant services. The county public health nurse shall determine the services that require professional delegation, if any, and the amount and frequency of related supervision;

(4) the recipient cannot select the shared services option as specified in subdivision 8; and

(5) parties must be in compliance with the written agreement specified in paragraph (f).

(i) The commissioner shall deny, revoke, or suspend the authorization to use the fiscal agent intermediary option if:

(1) it has been determined by the consulting qualified professional or local county public health nurse that the use of this option jeopardizes the recipient's health and safety;

(2) the parties have failed to comply with the written agreement specified in paragraph (f); or

(3) the use of the option has led to abusive or fraudulent billing for personal care assistant services.

The recipient or responsible party may appeal the commissioner's action according to section 256.045. The denial, revocation, or suspension to use the fiscal agent intermediary option shall not affect the recipient's authorized level of personal care assistant services as determined in subdivision 5.

Sec. 35. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0627, subdivision 11, is amended to read:

Subd. 11. [SHARED PRIVATE DUTY NURSING CARE OPTION.] (a) Medical assistance payments for shared private duty nursing services by a private duty nurse shall be limited according to this subdivision. For the purposes of this section, "private duty nursing agency" means an agency licensed under chapter 144A to provide private duty nursing services. 

(b) Recipients of private duty nursing services may share nursing staff and the commissioner shall provide a rate methodology for shared private duty nursing. For two persons sharing nursing care, the rate paid to a provider shall not exceed 1.5 times the nonwaivered regular private duty nursing rates paid for serving a single individual who is not ventilator dependent, by a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse. These rates apply only to situations in which both recipients are present and receive shared private duty nursing care on the date for which the service is billed. No more than two persons may receive shared private duty nursing services from a private duty nurse in a single setting.

(c) Shared private duty nursing care is the provision of nursing services by a private duty nurse to two recipients at the same time and in the same setting. For the purposes of this subdivision, "setting" means:

(1) the home or foster care home of one of the individual recipients; or

(2) a child care program licensed under chapter 245A or operated by a local school district or private school; or

(3) an adult day care service licensed under chapter 245A; or

(4) outside the home or foster care home of one of the recipients when normal life activities take the recipients outside the home.

This subdivision does not apply when a private duty nurse is caring for multiple recipients in more than one setting.

(d) The recipient or the recipient's legal representative, and the recipient's physician, in conjunction with the home health care agency, shall determine:

(1) whether shared private duty nursing care is an appropriate option based on the individual needs and preferences of the recipient; and

(2) the amount of shared private duty nursing services authorized as part of the overall authorization of nursing services.

(e) The recipient or the recipient's legal representative, in conjunction with the private duty nursing agency, shall approve the setting, grouping, and arrangement of shared private duty nursing care based on the individual needs and preferences of the recipients. Decisions on the selection of recipients to share services must be based on the ages of the recipients, compatibility, and coordination of their care needs.

(f) The following items must be considered by the recipient or the recipient's legal representative and the private duty nursing agency, and documented in the recipient's health service record:

(1) the additional training needed by the private duty nurse to provide care to two recipients in the same setting and to ensure that the needs of the recipients are met appropriately and safely;

(2) the setting in which the shared private duty nursing care will be provided;

(3) the ongoing monitoring and evaluation of the effectiveness and appropriateness of the service and process used to make changes in service or setting;

(4) a contingency plan which accounts for absence of the recipient in a shared private duty nursing setting due to illness or other circumstances;

(5) staffing backup contingencies in the event of employee illness or absence; and

(6) arrangements for additional assistance to respond to urgent or emergency care needs of the recipients. 

(g) The provider must offer the recipient or responsible party the option of shared or one-on-one private duty nursing services. The recipient or responsible party can withdraw from participating in a shared service arrangement at any time.

(h) The private duty nursing agency must document the following in the health service record for each individual recipient sharing private duty nursing care:

(1) permission by the recipient or the recipient's legal representative for the maximum number of shared nursing care hours per week chosen by the recipient;

(2) permission by the recipient or the recipient's legal representative for shared private duty nursing services provided outside the recipient's residence;

(3) permission by the recipient or the recipient's legal representative for others to receive shared private duty nursing services in the recipient's residence;

(4) revocation by the recipient or the recipient's legal representative of the shared private duty nursing care authorization, or the shared care to be provided to others in the recipient's residence, or the shared private duty nursing services to be provided outside the recipient's residence; and

(5) daily documentation of the shared private duty nursing services provided by each identified private duty nurse, including:

(i) the names of each recipient receiving shared private duty nursing services together;

(ii) the setting for the shared services, including the starting and ending times that the recipient received shared private duty nursing care; and

(iii) notes by the private duty nurse regarding changes in the recipient's condition, problems that may arise from the sharing of private duty nursing services, and scheduling and care issues.

(i) Unless otherwise provided in this subdivision, all other statutory and regulatory provisions relating to private duty nursing services apply to shared private duty nursing services.

Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to reduce the total number of private duty nursing hours authorized for an individual recipient under subdivision 5.

Sec. 36. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0627, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 13. [CONSUMER-DIRECTED HOME CARE DEMONSTRATION PROJECT.] (a) Upon the receipt of federal waiver authority, the commissioner shall implement a consumer-directed home care demonstration project. The consumer-directed home care demonstration project must demonstrate and evaluate the outcomes of a consumer-directed service delivery alternative to improve access, increase consumer control and accountability over available resources, and enable the use of supports that are more individualized and cost-effective for eligible medical assistance recipients receiving certain medical assistance home care services. The consumer-directed home care demonstration project will be administered locally by county agencies, tribal governments, or administrative entities under contract with the state in regions where counties choose not to provide this service.

(b) Grant awards for persons who have been receiving medical assistance covered personal care, home health aide, or private duty nursing services for a period of 12 consecutive months or more prior to enrollment in the consumer-directed home care demonstration project will be established on a case-by-case basis using historical service expenditure data. An average monthly expenditure for each continuing enrollee will be calculated based on

historical expenditures made on behalf of the enrollee for personal care, home health aide, or private duty nursing services during the 12 month period directly prior to enrollment in the project. The grant award will equal 90 percent of the average monthly expenditure.

(c) Grant awards for project enrollees who have been receiving medical assistance covered personal care, home health aide, or private duty nursing services for a period of less than 12 consecutive months prior to project enrollment will be calculated on a case-by-case basis using the service authorization in place at the time of enrollment. The total number of units of personal care, home health aide, or private duty nursing services the enrollee has been authorized to receive will be converted to the total cost of the authorized services in a given month using the statewide average service payment rates. To determine an estimated monthly expenditure, the total authorized monthly personal care, home health aide or private duty nursing service costs will be reduced by a percentage rate equivalent to the difference between the statewide average service authorization and the statewide average utilization rate for each of the services by medical assistance eligibles during the most recent fiscal year for which 12 months of data is available. The grant award will equal 90 percent of the estimated monthly expenditure.

(d) The state of Minnesota, county agencies, tribal governments, or administrative entities under contract with the state that participate in the implementation and administration of the consumer-directed home care demonstration project, shall not be liable for damages, injuries, or liabilities sustained through the purchase of support by the individual, the individual's family, or the authorized representative under this section with funds received through the consumer-directed home care demonstration project. Liabilities include but are not limited to: workers' compensation liability, the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA), or the Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA).

Sec. 37. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0627, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 14. [TELEHOMECARE; SKILLED NURSE VISITS.] Medical assistance covers skilled nurse visits according to section 256B.0625, subdivision 6a, provided via telehomecare, for services which do not require hands-on care between the home care nurse and recipient. The provision of telehomecare must be made via live, two-way interactive audiovisual technology and may be augmented by utilizing store-and-forward technologies. Store-and-forward technology includes telehomecare services that do not occur in real time via synchronous transmissions, and that do not require a face-to-face encounter with the recipient for all or any part of any such telehomecare visit. A communication between the home care nurse and recipient that consists solely of a telephone conversation, facsimile, electronic mail, or a consultation between two health care practitioners, is not to be considered a telehomecare visit. Multiple daily skilled nurse visits provided via telehomecare are allowed. Coverage of telehomecare is limited to two visits per day. All skilled nurse visits provided via telehomecare must be prior authorized by the commissioner or the commissioner's designee and will be covered at the same allowable rate as skilled nurse visits provided in-person.

Sec. 38. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0627, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 15. [THERAPIES THROUGH HOME HEALTH AGENCIES.] (a) [PHYSICAL THERAPY.] Medical assistance covers physical therapy and related services, including specialized maintenance therapy. Services provided by a physical therapy assistant shall be reimbursed at the same rate as services performed by a physical therapist when the services of the physical therapy assistant are provided under the direction of a physical therapist who is on the premises. Services provided by a physical therapy assistant that are provided under the direction of a physical therapist who is not on the premises shall be reimbursed at 65 percent of the physical therapist rate. Direction of the physical therapy assistant must be provided by the physical therapist as described in Minnesota Rules, part 9505.0390, subpart 1, item B. The physical therapist and physical therapist assistant may not both bill for services provided to a recipient on the same day.

(b) [OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY.] Medical assistance covers occupational therapy and related services, including specialized maintenance therapy. Services provided by an occupational therapy assistant shall be reimbursed at the same rate as services performed by an occupational therapist when the services of the occupational therapy assistant are provided under the direction of the occupational therapist who is on the premises. Services

provided by an occupational therapy assistant under the direction of an occupational therapist who is not on the premises shall be reimbursed at 65 percent of the occupational therapist rate. Direction of the occupational therapy assistant must be provided by the occupational therapist as described in Minnesota Rules, part 9505.0390, subpart 1, item B. The occupational therapist and occupational therapist assistant may not both bill for services provided to a recipient on the same day.

Sec. 39. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0627, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 16. [HARDSHIP CRITERIA; PRIVATE DUTY NURSING.] (a) Payment is allowed for extraordinary services that require specialized nursing skills and are provided by parents of minor children, spouses, and legal guardians who are providing private duty nursing care under the following conditions:

(1) the provision of these services is not legally required of the parents, spouses, or legal guardians;

(2) the services are necessary to prevent hospitalization of the recipient; and

(3) the recipient is eligible for state plan home care or a home and community-based waiver and one of the following hardship criteria are met:

(i) the parent, spouse, or legal guardian resigns from a part-time or full-time job to provide nursing care for the recipient; or

(ii) the parent, spouse, or legal guardian goes from a full-time to a part-time job with less compensation to provide nursing care for the recipient; or

(iii) the parent, spouse, or legal guardian takes a leave of absence without pay to provide nursing care for the recipient; or

(iv) because of labor conditions, special language needs, or intermittent hours of care needed, the parent, spouse, or legal guardian is needed in order to provide adequate private duty nursing services to meet the medical needs of the recipient.

(b) Private duty nursing may be provided by a parent, spouse, or legal guardian who is a nurse licensed in Minnesota. Private duty nursing services provided by a parent, spouse, or legal guardian cannot be used in lieu of nursing services covered and available under liable third-party payers, including Medicare. The private duty nursing provided by a parent, spouse, or legal guardian must be included in the service plan. Authorized skilled nursing services provided by the parent, spouse, or legal guardian may not exceed 50 percent of the total approved nursing hours, or eight hours per day, whichever is less, up to a maximum of 40 hours per week. Nothing in this subdivision precludes the parent's, spouse's, or legal guardian's obligation of assuming the nonreimbursed family responsibilities of emergency backup caregiver and primary caregiver.

(c) A parent or a spouse may not be paid to provide private duty nursing care if the parent or spouse fails to pass a criminal background check according to section 245A.04, or if it has been determined by the home health agency, the case manager, or the physician that the private duty nursing care provided by the parent, spouse, or legal guardian is unsafe.

Sec. 40. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0627, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 17. [QUALITY ASSURANCE PLAN FOR PERSONAL CARE ASSISTANT SERVICES.] The commissioner shall establish a quality assurance plan for personal care assistant services that includes:

(1) performance-based provider agreements; 

(2) meaningful consumer input, which may include consumer surveys, that measure the extent to which participants receive the services and supports described in the individual plan and participant satisfaction with such services and supports;

(3) ongoing monitoring of the health and well-being of consumers; and

(4) an ongoing public process for development, implementation, and review of the quality assurance plan.

Sec. 41. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0911, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 4a. [PREADMISSION SCREENING OF INDIVIDUALS UNDER 65 YEARS OF AGE.] (a) It is the policy of the state of Minnesota to ensure that individuals with disabilities or chronic illness are served in the most integrated setting appropriate to their needs and have the necessary information to make informed choices about home and community-based service options.

(b) Individuals under 65 years of age who are admitted to a nursing facility from a hospital must be screened prior to admission as outlined in subdivision 4.

(c) Individuals under 65 years of age who are admitted to nursing facilities with only a telephone screening must receive a face-to-face assessment from the long-term care consultation team member of the county in which the facility is located or from the recipient's county case manager within 20 working days of admission.

(d) At the face-to-face assessment, the long-term care consultation team member or county case manager must perform the activities required under subdivision 3.

(e) For individuals under 21 years of age, the screening or assessment which recommends nursing facility admission must be approved by the commissioner before the individual is admitted to the nursing facility.

(f) In the event that an individual under 65 years of age is admitted to a nursing facility on an emergency basis, the county must be notified of the admission on the next working day, and a face-to-face assessment as described in paragraph (c) must be conducted within 20 working days of admission.

(g) At the face-to-face assessment, the long-term care consultation team member or the case manager must present information about home and community-based options so the individual can make informed choices. If the individual chooses home and community-based services, the long-term care consultation team member or case manager must complete a written relocation plan within 20 working days of the visit. The plan shall describe the services needed to move out of the facility and a time line for the move which is designed to ensure a smooth transition to the individual's home and community.

(h) An individual under 65 years of age residing in a nursing facility shall receive a face-to-face assessment at least every 12 months to review the person's service choices and available alternatives unless the individual indicates, in writing, that annual visits are not desired. In this case, the individual must receive a face-to-face assessment at least once every 36 months for the same purposes.

(i) Notwithstanding the provisions of subdivision 6, the commissioner may pay county agencies directly for face-to-face assessments for individuals who are eligible for medical assistance, under 65 years of age, and being considered for placement or residing in a nursing facility.

Sec. 42. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0916, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [REDUCTION OF WAITING LIST.] (a) The legislature recognizes that as of January 1, 1999, 3,300 persons with mental retardation or related conditions have been screened and determined eligible for the home and community-based waiver services program for persons with mental retardation or related conditions. Many wait for several years before receiving service. 

(b) The waiting list for this program shall be reduced or eliminated by June 30, 2003. In order to reduce the number of eligible persons waiting for identified services provided through the home and community-based waiver for persons with mental retardation or related conditions, during the period from July 1, 1999, to June 30, 2003, funding shall be increased to add 100 additional eligible persons each year beyond the February 1999 medical assistance forecast.

(c) The commissioner shall allocate resources in such a manner as to use all resources budgeted during a biennium for the home and community-based waiver for persons with mental retardation or related conditions according to the priorities listed in subdivision 2, paragraph (b), and then to serve other persons on the waiting list. Resources allocated for a fiscal year to serve persons affected by public and private sector ICF/MR closures, but not expected to be expended for that purpose, must be reallocated within that fiscal year to serve other persons on the waiting list, and the number of waiver diversion slots shall be adjusted accordingly.

(d) For fiscal year 2001, at least one-half of the increase in funding over the previous year provided in the February 1999 medical assistance forecast for the home and community-based waiver for persons with mental retardation and related conditions, including changes made by the 1999 legislature, must be used to serve persons who are not affected by public and private sector ICF/MR closures.

(e) The commissioner of finance shall not reduce the expenditure forecast for a biennium for which appropriations have been made, if at the time of the forecast there is a waiting list for waiver services for persons with mental retardation or related conditions who need services within the next 30 months. Funds that would have resulted from a projected reduction in expenditures must be used by the commissioner of human services to serve persons with developmental disabilities through the home and community-based waiver for persons with mental retardation or related conditions.

Sec. 43. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0916, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 6a. [STATEWIDE AVAILABILITY OF CONSUMER-DIRECTED COMMUNITY SUPPORT SERVICES.] (a) The commissioner shall submit to the federal Health Care Financing Administration by August 1, 2001, an amendment to the home and community-based waiver for persons with mental retardation or related conditions to make consumer-directed community support services available in every county of the state by January 1, 2002.

(b) If a county declines to meet the requirements for provision of consumer-directed community supports, the commissioner shall contract with another county, a group of counties, or a private agency to plan for and administer consumer-directed community supports in that county.

(c) The state of Minnesota, county agencies, tribal governments, or administrative entities under contract to participate in the implementation and administration of the home and community-based waiver for persons with mental retardation or a related condition, shall not be liable for damages, injuries, or liabilities sustained through the purchase of support by the individual, the individual's family, or the authorized representative with funds received through the consumer-directed community support service under this section. Liabilities include but are not limited to: workers' compensation liability, the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA), or the Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA).

Sec. 44. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0916, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7. [ANNUAL REPORT BY COMMISSIONER.] Beginning October 1, 1999, and each October 1 November 1, 2001, and each November 1 thereafter, the commissioner shall issue an annual report on county and state use of available resources for the home and community-based waiver for persons with mental retardation or related conditions. For each county or county partnership, the report shall include:

(1) the amount of funds allocated but not used; 

(2) the county specific allowed reserve amount approved and used;

(3) the number, ages, and living situations of individuals screened and waiting for services;

(4) the urgency of need for services to begin within one, two, or more than two years for each individual;

(5) the services needed;

(6) the number of additional persons served by approval of increased capacity within existing allocations;

(7) results of action by the commissioner to streamline administrative requirements and improve county resource management; and

(8) additional action that would decrease the number of those eligible and waiting for waivered services.

The commissioner shall specify intended outcomes for the program and the degree to which these specified outcomes are attained.

Sec. 45. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0916, subdivision 9, is amended to read:

Subd. 9. [LEGAL REPRESENTATIVE PARTICIPATION EXCEPTION.] The commissioner, in cooperation with representatives of counties, service providers, service recipients, family members, legal representatives and advocates, shall develop criteria to allow legal representatives to be reimbursed for providing specific support services to meet the person's needs when a plan which assures health and safety has been agreed upon and carried out by the legal representative, the person, and the county. Legal representatives providing support under consumer-directed community support services pursuant to section 256B.092, subdivision 4, the home and community-based waiver for persons with mental retardation or related conditions or the consumer support grant program pursuant to section 256B.092, subdivision 7 256.476, shall not be considered to have a direct or indirect service provider interest under section 256B.092, subdivision 7, if a health and safety plan which meets the criteria established has been agreed upon and implemented. By October 1, 1999 August 1, 2001, the commissioner shall submit, for federal approval, amendments to allow legal representatives to provide support and receive reimbursement under the consumer-directed community support services section of the home and community-based waiver plan.

Sec. 46. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.092, subdivision 2a, is amended to read:

Subd. 2a. [MEDICAL ASSISTANCE FOR CASE MANAGEMENT ACTIVITIES UNDER THE STATE PLAN MEDICAID OPTION.] (a) Upon receipt of federal approval, the commissioner shall make payments to approved vendors counties, private individuals, and agencies enrolled as providers of case management services participating in the medical assistance program to reimburse costs for providing case management service activities to medical assistance eligible persons with mental retardation or a related condition, in accordance with the state Medicaid plan, the home and community-based waiver for persons with mental retardation and related conditions plan, and federal requirements and limitations.

(b) The commissioner shall ensure that each eligible person is given a choice of county and private agency case management service providers. Case management service providers are prohibited from providing any other service to the person receiving case management services.

Sec. 47. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.092, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5. [FEDERAL WAIVERS.] (a) The commissioner shall apply for any federal waivers necessary to secure, to the extent allowed by law, federal financial participation under United States Code, title 42, sections 1396 et seq., as amended, for the provision of services to persons who, in the absence of the services, would need the level of care provided in a regional treatment center or a community intermediate care facility for persons with mental retardation or related conditions. The commissioner may seek amendments to the waivers or apply for additional waivers under

United States Code, title 42, sections 1396 et seq., as amended, to contain costs. The commissioner shall ensure that payment for the cost of providing home and community-based alternative services under the federal waiver plan shall not exceed the cost of intermediate care services including day training and habilitation services that would have been provided without the waivered services.

(b) The commissioner, in administering home and community-based waivers for persons with mental retardation and related conditions, shall ensure that day services for eligible persons are not provided by the person's residential service provider, unless the person or the person's legal representative is offered a choice of providers and agrees in writing to provision of day services by the residential service provider. The individual service plan for individuals who choose to have their residential service provider provide their day services must describe how health, safety, and protection needs will be met by frequent and regular contact with persons other than the residential service provider.

Sec. 48. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.093, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3. [TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY PROGRAM DUTIES.] The department shall fund administrative case management under this subdivision using medical assistance administrative funds. The traumatic brain injury program duties include:

(1) recommending to the commissioner in consultation with the medical review agent according to Minnesota Rules, parts 9505.0500 to 9505.0540, the approval or denial of medical assistance funds to pay for out-of-state placements for traumatic brain injury services and in-state traumatic brain injury services provided by designated Medicare long-term care hospitals;

(2) coordinating the traumatic brain injury home and community-based waiver;

(3) approving traumatic brain injury waiver eligibility or care plans or both;

(4) providing ongoing technical assistance and consultation to county and facility case managers to facilitate care plan development for appropriate, accessible, and cost-effective medical assistance services;

(5) (4) providing technical assistance to promote statewide development of appropriate, accessible, and cost-effective medical assistance services and related policy;

(6) (5) providing training and outreach to facilitate access to appropriate home and community-based services to prevent institutionalization;

(7) (6) facilitating appropriate admissions, continued stay review, discharges, and utilization review for neurobehavioral hospitals and other specialized institutions;

(8) (7) providing technical assistance on the use of prior authorization of home care services and coordination of these services with other medical assistance services;

(9) (8) developing a system for identification of nursing facility and hospital residents with traumatic brain injury to assist in long-term planning for medical assistance services. Factors will include, but are not limited to, number of individuals served, length of stay, services received, and barriers to community placement; and

(10) (9) providing information, referral, and case consultation to access medical assistance services for recipients without a county or facility case manager. Direct access to this assistance may be limited due to the structure of the program. 

Sec. 49. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.095, is amended to read:

256B.095 [THREE-YEAR QUALITY ASSURANCE PILOT PROJECT ESTABLISHED.]

Effective July 1, 1998, an alternative quality assurance licensing system pilot project for programs for persons with developmental disabilities is established in Dodge, Fillmore, Freeborn, Goodhue, Houston, Mower, Olmsted, Rice, Steele, Wabasha, and Winona counties for the purpose of improving the quality of services provided to persons with developmental disabilities. A county, at its option, may choose to have all programs for persons with developmental disabilities located within the county licensed under chapter 245A using standards determined under the alternative quality assurance licensing system pilot project or may continue regulation of these programs under the licensing system operated by the commissioner. The pilot project expires on June 30, 2001 2005.

Sec. 50. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0951, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [MEMBERSHIP.] The region 10 quality assurance commission is established. The commission consists of at least 14 but not more than 21 members as follows: at least three but not more than five members representing advocacy organizations; at least three but not more than five members representing consumers, families, and their legal representatives; at least three but not more than five members representing service providers; at least three but not more than five members representing counties; and the commissioner of human services or the commissioner's designee. Initial membership of the commission shall be recruited and approved by the region 10 stakeholders group. Prior to approving the commission's membership, the stakeholders group shall provide to the commissioner a list of the membership in the stakeholders group, as of February 1, 1997, a brief summary of meetings held by the group since July 1, 1996, and copies of any materials prepared by the group for public distribution. The first commission shall establish membership guidelines for the transition and recruitment of membership for the commission's ongoing existence. Members of the commission who do not receive a salary or wages from an employer for time spent on commission duties may receive a per diem payment when performing commission duties and functions. All members may be reimbursed for expenses related to commission activities. Notwithstanding the provisions of section 15.059, subdivision 5, the commission expires on June 30, 2001 2005.

Sec. 51. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0951, subdivision 3, is amended to read:

Subd. 3. [COMMISSION DUTIES.] (a) By October 1, 1997, the commission, in cooperation with the commissioners of human services and health, shall do the following: (1) approve an alternative quality assurance licensing system based on the evaluation of outcomes; (2) approve measurable outcomes in the areas of health and safety, consumer evaluation, education and training, providers, and systems that shall be evaluated during the alternative licensing process; and (3) establish variable licensure periods not to exceed three years based on outcomes achieved. For purposes of this subdivision, "outcome" means the behavior, action, or status of a person that can be observed or measured and can be reliably and validly determined.

(b) By January 15, 1998, the commission shall approve, in cooperation with the commissioner of human services, a training program for members of the quality assurance teams established under section 256B.0952, subdivision 4.

(c) The commission and the commissioner shall establish an ongoing review process for the alternative quality assurance licensing system. The review shall take into account the comprehensive nature of the alternative system, which is designed to evaluate the broad spectrum of licensed and unlicensed entities that provide services to clients, as compared to the current licensing system.

(d) The commission shall contract with an independent entity to conduct a financial review of the alternative quality assurance pilot project. The review shall take into account the comprehensive nature of the alternative system, which is designed to evaluate the broad spectrum of licensed and unlicensed entities that provide services to clients, as compared to the current licensing system. The review shall include an evaluation of possible budgetary savings within the department of human services as a result of implementation of the alternative quality assurance pilot project. If a federal waiver is approved under subdivision 7, the financial review shall also evaluate possible savings within the department of health. This review must be completed by December 15, 2000. 

(e) The commission shall submit a report to the legislature by January 15, 2001, on the results of the review process for the alternative quality assurance pilot project, a summary of the results of the independent financial review, and a recommendation on whether the pilot project should be extended beyond June 30, 2001.

(f) The commissioner, in consultation with the commission, shall examine the feasibility of expanding the project to other populations or geographic areas and identify barriers to expansion. The commissioner shall report findings and recommendations to the legislature by December 15, 2004.

Sec. 52. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0951, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4. [COMMISSION'S AUTHORITY TO RECOMMEND VARIANCES OF LICENSING STANDARDS.] The commission may recommend to the commissioners of human services and health variances from the standards governing licensure of programs for persons with developmental disabilities in order to improve the quality of services by implementing an alternative developmental disabilities licensing system if the commission determines that the alternative licensing system does not adversely affect the health or safety of persons being served by the licensed program nor compromise the qualifications of staff to provide services.

Sec. 53. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0951, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5. [VARIANCE OF CERTAIN STANDARDS PROHIBITED.] The safety standards, rights, or procedural protections under sections 245.825; 245.91 to 245.97; 245A.04, subdivisions 3, 3a, 3b, and 3c; 245A.09, subdivision 2, paragraph (c), clauses (2) and (5); 245A.12; 245A.13; 252.41, subdivision 9; 256B.092, subdivisions 1b, clause (7), and 10; 626.556; 626.557, and procedures for the monitoring of psychotropic medications shall not be varied under the alternative licensing system pilot project. The commission may make recommendations to the commissioners of human services and health or to the legislature regarding alternatives to or modifications of the rules and procedures referenced in this subdivision.

Sec. 54. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0951, subdivision 7, is amended to read:

Subd. 7. [WAIVER OF RULES.] The commissioner of health may exempt residents of intermediate care facilities for persons with mental retardation (ICFs/MR) who participate in the three-year quality assurance pilot project established in section 256B.095 from the requirements of Minnesota Rules, chapter 4665, upon approval by the federal government of a waiver of federal certification requirements for ICFs/MR. The commissioners of health and human services shall apply for any necessary waivers as soon as practicable and shall submit the concept paper to the federal government by June 1, 1998.

Sec. 55. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0951, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 8. [FEDERAL WAIVER.] The commissioner of human services shall seek federal authority to waive provisions of intermediate care facilities for persons with mental retardation (ICFs/MR) regulations to enable the demonstration and evaluation of the alternative quality assurance system for ICFs/MR under the project. The commissioner of human services shall apply for any necessary waivers as soon as practicable.

Sec. 56. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0951, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 9. [EVALUATION.] The commission, in consultation with the commissioner of human services, shall conduct an evaluation of the alternative quality assurance system, and present a report to the commissioner by June 30, 2004.

Sec. 57. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0952, subdivision 1, is amended to read:

Subdivision 1. [NOTIFICATION.] By January 15, 1998, each affected county shall notify the commission and the commissioners of human services and health as to whether it chooses to implement on July 1, 1998, the alternative licensing system for the pilot project. A county that does not implement the alternative licensing system

on July 1, 1998, may give notice to the commission and the commissioners by January 15, 1999, or January 15, 2000, that it will implement the alternative licensing system on the following July 1. A county that implements the alternative licensing system commits to participate until June 30, 2001. For each year of the project, region 10 counties shall give notice to the commission and commissioners of human services and health by March 15 of intent to join the quality assurance alternative licensing system, effective July 1 of that year. A county choosing to participate in the alternative licensing system commits to participate until June 30, 2005. Counties participating in the quality assurance alternative licensing system as of January 1, 2001, shall notify the commission and the commissioners of human services and health by March 15, 2001, of intent to continue participation. Counties that elect to continue participation must participate in the alternative licensing system until June 30, 2005.

Sec. 58. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.0952, subdivision 4, is amended to read:

Subd. 4. [APPOINTMENT OF QUALITY ASSURANCE MANAGER.] (a) A county or group of counties that chooses to participate in the alternative licensing system shall designate a quality assurance manager and shall establish quality assurance teams in accordance with subdivision 5. The manager shall recruit, train, and assign duties to the quality assurance team members. In assigning team members to conduct the quality assurance process at a facility, program, or service, the manager shall take into account the size of the service provider, the number of services to be reviewed, the skills necessary for team members to complete the process, and other relevant factors. The manager shall ensure that no team member has a financial, personal, or family relationship with the facility, program, or service being reviewed or with any clients of the facility, program, or service.

(b) Quality assurance teams shall report the findings of their quality assurance reviews to the quality assurance manager. The quality assurance manager shall provide the report from the quality assurance team to the county and, upon request, to the commissioners of human services and health, and shall provide a summary of the report to the quality assurance review council.

Sec. 59. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.49, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 11. [AUTHORITY.] (a) The commissioner is authorized to apply for home and community-based service waivers, as authorized under section 1915(c) of the Social Security Act to serve persons under the age of 65 who are determined to require the level of care provided in a nursing home and persons who require the level of care provided in a hospital. The commissioner shall apply for the home and community-based waivers in order to: (i) promote the support of persons with disabilities in the most integrated settings; (ii) expand the availability of services for persons who are eligible for medical assistance; (iii) promote cost-effective options to institutional care; and (iv) obtain federal financial participation.

(b) The provision of waivered services to medical assistance recipients with disabilities shall comply with the requirements outlined in the federally approved applications for home and community-based services and subsequent amendments, including provision of services according to a service plan designed to meet the needs of the individual. For purposes of this section, the approved home and community-based application is considered the necessary federal requirement.

(c) The commissioner shall provide interested persons serving on agency advisory committees and task forces, and others upon request, with notice of, and an opportunity to comment on, any changes or amendments to the federally approved applications for home and community-based waivers, prior to their submission to the federal health care financing administration.

(d) The commissioner shall seek approval, as authorized under section 1915(c) of the Social Security Act, to allow medical assistance eligibility under this section for children under age 21 without deeming of parental income or assets.

(e) The commissioner shall seek approval, as authorized under section 1915(c) of the Social Act, to allow medical assistance eligibility under this section for individuals under age 65 without deeming the spouse's income or assets. 

Sec. 60. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.49, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 12. [INFORMED CHOICE.] Persons who are determined likely to require the level of care provided in a nursing facility or hospital shall be informed of the home and community-based support alternatives to the provision of inpatient hospital services or nursing facility services. Each person must be given the choice of either institutional or home and community-based services, using the provisions described in section 256B.77, subdivision 2, paragraph (p).

Sec. 61. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.49, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 13. [CASE MANAGEMENT.] (a) Each recipient of a home and community-based waiver shall be provided case management services by qualified vendors as described in the federally approved waiver application. The case management service activities provided will include:

(1) assessing the needs of the individual within 20 working days of a recipient's request;

(2) developing the written individual service plan within ten working days after the assessment is completed;

(3) informing the recipient or the recipient's legal guardian or conservator of service options;

(4) assisting the recipient in the identification of potential service providers;

(5) assisting the recipient to access services;

(6) coordinating, evaluating, and monitoring of the services identified in the service plan;

(7) completing the annual reviews of the service plan; and

(8) informing the recipient or legal representative of the right to have assessments completed and service plans developed within specified time periods, and to appeal county action or inaction under section 256.045, subdivision 3.

(b) The case manager may delegate certain aspects of the case management service activities to another individual provided there is oversight by the case manager. The case manager may not delegate those aspects which require professional judgment including assessments, reassessments, and care plan development.

Sec. 62. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.49, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 14. [ASSESSMENT AND REASSESSMENT.] (a) Assessments of each recipient's strengths, informal support systems, and need for services shall be completed within 20 working days of the recipient's request. Reassessment of each recipient's strengths, support systems, and need for services shall be conducted at least every 12 months and at other times when there has been a significant change in the recipient's functioning.

(b) Persons with mental retardation or a related condition who apply for services under the nursing facility level waiver programs shall be screened for the appropriate level of care according to section 256B.092.

(c) Recipients who are found eligible for home and community-based services under this section before their 65th birthday may remain eligible for these services after their 65th birthday if they continue to meet all other eligibility factors.

Sec. 63. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.49, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 15. [INDIVIDUALIZED SERVICE PLAN.] Each recipient of home and community-based waivered services shall be provided a copy of the written service plan which:

(1) is developed and signed by the recipient within ten working days of the completion of the assessment; 

(2) meets the assessed needs of the recipient;

(3) reasonably ensures the health and safety of the recipient;

(4) promotes independence;

(5) allows for services to be provided in the most integrated settings; and

(6) provides for an informed choice, as defined in section 256B.77, subdivision 2, paragraph (p), of service and support providers.

Sec. 64. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.49, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 16. [SERVICES AND SUPPORTS.] (a) Services and supports included in the home and community-based waivers for persons with disabilities shall meet the requirements set out in United States Code, title 42, section 1396n. The services and supports, which are offered as alternatives to institutional care, shall promote consumer choice, community inclusion, self-sufficiency, and self-determination.

(b) Beginning January 1, 2003, the commissioner shall simplify and improve access to home and community-based waivered services, to the extent possible, through the establishment of a common service menu that is available to eligible recipients regardless of age, disability type, or waiver program.

(c) Consumer directed community support services shall be offered as an option to all persons eligible for services under section 256B.49, subdivision 11, by January 1, 2002.

(d) Services and supports shall be arranged and provided consistent with individualized written plans of care for eligible waiver recipients.

(e) The state of Minnesota and county agencies that administer home and community-based waivered services for persons with disabilities, shall not be liable for damages, injuries, or liabilities sustained through the purchase of supports by the individual, the individual's family, or the authorized representative with funds received through the consumer-directed community support service under this section. Liabilities include but are not limited to: workers' compensation liability, the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA), or the Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA).

Sec. 65. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.49, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 17. [COST OF SERVICES AND SUPPORTS.] (a) The commissioner shall ensure that the average per capita expenditures estimated in any fiscal year for home and community-based waiver recipients does not exceed the average per capita expenditures that would have been made to provide institutional services for recipients in the absence of the waiver.

(b) The commissioner shall implement on January 1, 2002, one or more aggregate, need-based methods for allocating to local agencies the home and community-based waivered service resources available to support recipients with disabilities in need of the level of care provided in a nursing facility or a hospital. The commissioner shall allocate resources to single counties and county partnerships in a manner that reflects consideration of:

(1) an incentive-based payment process for achieving outcomes;

(2) the need for a state-level risk pool;

(3) the need for retention of management responsibility at the state agency level; and

(4) a phase-in strategy as appropriate. 

(c) Until the allocation methods described in paragraph (b) are implemented, the annual allowable reimbursement level of home and community-based waiver services shall be the greater of:

(1) the statewide average payment amount which the recipient is assigned under the waiver reimbursement system in place on June 30, 2001, modified by the percentage of any provider rate increase appropriated for home and community-based services; or

(2) an amount approved by the commissioner based on the recipient's extraordinary needs that cannot be met within the current allowable reimbursement level. The increased reimbursement level must be necessary to allow the recipient to be discharged from an institution or to prevent imminent placement in an institution. The additional reimbursement may be used to secure environmental modifications; assistive technology and equipment; and increased costs for supervision, training, and support services necessary to address the recipient's extraordinary needs. The commissioner may approve an increased reimbursement level for up to one year of the recipient's relocation from an institution or up to six months of a determination that a current waiver recipient is at imminent risk of being placed in an institution.

(d) Beginning July 1, 2001, medically necessary private duty nursing services will be authorized under this section as complex and regular care according to section 256B.0627.

Sec. 66. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.49, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 18. [PAYMENTS.] The commissioner shall reimburse approved vendors from the medical assistance account for the costs of providing home and community-based services to eligible recipients using the invoice processing procedures of the Medicaid management information system (MMIS). Recipients will be screened and authorized for services according to the federally approved waiver application and its subsequent amendments.

Sec. 67. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.49, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 19. [HEALTH AND WELFARE.] The commissioner of human services shall take the necessary safeguards to protect the health and welfare of individuals provided services under the waiver.

Sec. 68. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.49, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 20. [TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY AND RELATED CONDITIONS.] The commissioner shall seek to amend the traumatic brain injury waiver to include, as eligible persons, individuals with an acquired or degenerative disease diagnosis where cognitive impairment is present, such as multiple sclerosis.

Sec. 69. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256B.69, subdivision 23, is amended to read:

Subd. 23. [ALTERNATIVE INTEGRATED LONG-TERM CARE SERVICES; ELDERLY AND DISABLED PERSONS.] (a) The commissioner may implement demonstration projects to create alternative integrated delivery systems for acute and long-term care services to elderly persons and persons with disabilities as defined in section 256B.77, subdivision 7a, that provide increased coordination, improve access to quality services, and mitigate future cost increases. The commissioner may seek federal authority to combine Medicare and Medicaid capitation payments for the purpose of such demonstrations. Medicare funds and services shall be administered according to the terms and conditions of the federal waiver and demonstration provisions. For the purpose of administering medical assistance funds, demonstrations under this subdivision are subject to subdivisions 1 to 22. The provisions of Minnesota Rules, parts 9500.1450 to 9500.1464, apply to these demonstrations, with the exceptions of parts 9500.1452, subpart 2, item B; and 9500.1457, subpart 1, items B and C, which do not apply to persons enrolling in demonstrations under this section. An initial open enrollment period may be provided. Persons who disenroll from demonstrations under this subdivision remain subject to Minnesota Rules, parts 9500.1450 to 9500.1464. When a person is enrolled in a health plan under these demonstrations and the health plan's participation is subsequently terminated for any reason, the person shall be provided an opportunity to select a new health plan and shall have the right to change health plans within the first 60 days of enrollment in the second health

plan. Persons required to participate in health plans under this section who fail to make a choice of health plan shall not be randomly assigned to health plans under these demonstrations. Notwithstanding section 256L.12, subdivision 5, and Minnesota Rules, part 9505.5220, subpart 1, item A, if adopted, for the purpose of demonstrations under this subdivision, the commissioner may contract with managed care organizations, including counties, to serve only elderly persons eligible for medical assistance, elderly and disabled persons, or disabled persons only. For persons with primary diagnoses of mental retardation or a related condition, serious and persistent mental illness, or serious emotional disturbance, the commissioner must ensure that the county authority has approved the demonstration and contracting design. Enrollment in these projects for persons with disabilities shall be voluntary until July 1, 2001. The commissioner shall not implement any demonstration project under this subdivision for persons with primary diagnoses of mental retardation or a related condition, serious and persistent mental illness, or serious emotional disturbance, without approval of the county board of the county in which the demonstration is being implemented.

Before implementation of a demonstration project for disabled persons, the commissioner must provide information to appropriate committees of the house of representatives and senate and must involve representatives of affected disability groups in the design of the demonstration projects.

(b) A nursing facility reimbursed under the alternative reimbursement methodology in section 256B.434 may, in collaboration with a hospital, clinic, or other health care entity provide services under paragraph (a). The commissioner shall amend the state plan and seek any federal waivers necessary to implement this paragraph.

Sec. 70. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256D.35, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 11a. [INSTITUTION.] "Institution" means: a hospital, consistent with Code of Federal Regulations, title 42, section 440.10; regional treatment center inpatient services; a nursing facility; and an intermediate care facility for persons with mental retardation.

Sec. 71. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256D.35, is amended by adding a subdivision to read:

Subd. 18a. [SHELTER COSTS.] "Shelter costs" means: rent, manufactured home lot rentals; monthly principal, interest, insurance premiums, and property taxes due for mortgages or contract for deed costs; costs for utilities, including heating, cooling, electricity, water, and sewerage; garbage collection fees; and the basic service fee for one telephone.

Sec. 72. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256D.44, subdivision 5, is amended to read:

Subd. 5. [SPECIAL NEEDS.] In addition to the state standards of assistance established in subdivisions 1 to 4, payments are allowed for the following special needs of recipients of Minnesota supplemental aid who are not residents of a nursing home, a regional treatment center, or a group residential housing facility.

(a) The county agency shall pay a monthly allowance for medically prescribed diets payable under the Minnesota family investment program if the cost of those additional dietary needs cannot be met through some other maintenance benefit.

(b) Payment for nonrecurring special needs must be allowed for necessary home repairs or necessary repairs or replacement of household furniture and appliances using the payment standard of the AFDC program in effect on July 16, 1996, for these expenses, as long as other funding sources are not available.

(c) A fee for guardian or conservator service is allowed at a reasonable rate negotiated by the county or approved by the court. This rate shall not exceed five percent of the assistance unit's gross monthly income up to a maximum of $100 per month. If the guardian or conservator is a member of the county agency staff, no fee is allowed. 

(d) The county agency shall continue to pay a monthly allowance of $68 for restaurant meals for a person who was receiving a restaurant meal allowance on June 1, 1990, and who eats two or more meals in a restaurant daily. The allowance must continue until the person has not received Minnesota supplemental aid for one full calendar month or until the person's living arrangement changes and the person no longer meets the criteria for the restaurant meal allowance, whichever occurs first.

(e) A fee of ten percent of the recipient's gross income or $25, whichever is less, is allowed for representative payee services provided by an agency that meets the requirements under SSI regulations to charge a fee for representative payee services. This special need is available to all recipients of Minnesota supplemental aid regardless of their living arrangement.

(f) Notwithstanding the language in this subdivision, an amount equal to the maximum allotment authorized by the federal Food Stamp Program for a single individual which is in effect on the first day of January of the previous year will be added to the standards of assistance established in subdivisions 1 to 4 for individuals under the age of 65 who are relocating from an institution and who are shelter needy. An eligible individual who receives this benefit prior to age 65 may continue to receive the benefit after the age of 65.

"Shelter needy" means that the assistance unit incurs monthly shelter costs that exceed 40 percent of the assistance unit's gross income before the application of this special needs standard. "Gross income" for the purposes of this section is the applicant's or recipient's income as defined in section 256D.35, subdivision 10, or the standard specified in subdivision 3, whichever is greater. A recipient of a federal or state housing subsidy, that limits shelter costs to a percentage of gross income, shall not be considered shelter needy for purposes of this paragraph.

Sec. 73. Minnesota Statutes 2000, section 256I.05, subdivision 1e, is amended to read:

Subd. 1e. [SUPPLEMENTARY RATE FOR CERTAIN FACILITIES.] Notwithstanding the provisions of subdivisions 1a and 1c, beginning July 1, 1999 2001, a county agency shall negotiate a supplementary rate in addition to the rate specified in subdivision 1, equal to 25 125 percent of the amount specified in subdivision 1a, including any legislatively authorized inflationary adjustments, for a group residential housing provider that:

(1) is located in Hennepin county and has had a group residential housing contract with the county since June 1996;

(2) operates in three separate locations a 56-bed 71-bed facility, a and two 40-bed facility, and a 30-bed facility facilities; and

(3) serves a chemically dependent clientele, providing 24 hours per day supervision and limiting a resident's maximum length of stay to 13 months out of a consecutive 24-month period.

Sec. 74. [256I.07] [RESPITE CARE PILOT PROJECT FOR FAMILY ADULT FOSTER CARE PROVIDERS.]

Subdivision 1. [PROGRAM ESTABLISHED.] The state recognizes the importance of developing and maintaining quality family foster care resources. In order to accomplish that goal, the commissioner shall establish a two-year respite care pilot project for family adult foster care providers in three counties. This pilot project is intended to provide support to caregivers of adult foster care residents. The commissioner shall establish a pilot project to accomplish the provisions in subdivisions 2 to 4.

Subd. 2. [ELIGIBILITY.] A family adult foster care home provider as defined under section 144D.01, subdivision 7, who has been licensed for six months is eligible for 30 days of respite care per calendar year. In cases of emergency, a county social services agency may waive the six-month licensing requirement. In order to be eligible to receive respite payment from group residential housing and alternative care, a provider must take time off away from their foster care residents. 

Subd. 3. [PAYMENT STRUCTURE.] (a) The payment for respite care for an adult foster care resident eligible for only group residential housing shall be based on the current monthly group residential housing base room and board rate and the current maximum monthly group residential housing difficulty of care rate.

(b) The payment for respite care for an adult foster care resident eligible for alternative care funds shall be based on the resident's alternative care foster care rate.

(c) The payment for respite care for an adult foster care resident eligible for Medicaid home and community-based services waiver funds shall be based on the group residential housing base room and board rate.

(d) The total amount available to pay for respite care for a family adult foster care provider shall be based on the number of residents currently served in the foster care home and the source of funding used to pay for each resident's foster care. Respite care must be paid for on a per diem basis and for a full day.

Subd. 4. [PRIVATE PAY RESIDENTS.] Payment for respite care for private pay foster care residents must be arranged between the provider and the resident or the resident's family.

Sec. 75. Laws 1999, chapter 152, section 1, is amended to read:

Section 1. [TASK FORCE.]

A day training and habilitation task force is established. Task force membership shall consist of representatives of the commissioner of human services, counties, service consumers, and vendors of day training and habilitation as defined in Minnesota Statutes, section 252.41, subdivision 9, including at least one representative from each association representing day training and habilitation vendors. Appointments to the task force shall be made by the commissioner of human services and technical assistance shall be provided by the department of human services.

Sec. 76. Laws 1999, chapter 152, section 4, is amended to read:

Sec. 4. [REPORT.]

The task force shall present a report recommending a new payment rate structure to the legislature by January 15, 2000, and shall make recommendations to the commissioner of human services regarding the implementation of the pilot project for the individualized payment rate structure, so the pilot project can be implemented by July 1, 2002, as required in section 3. The task force expires on March 15, 2000 December 30, 2003.

Sec. 77. [DAY TRAINING AND HABILITATION PAYMENT STRUCTURE PILOT PROJECT.]

Subdivision 1. [INDIVIDUALIZED PAYMENT RATE STRUCTURE.] Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, sections 252.451, subdivision 5; and 252.46; and Minnesota Rules, part 9525.1290, subpart 1, items A and B, the commissioner of human services shall initiate a pilot project and phase-in for the individualized payment rate structure described in this section and section 74. The pilot project shall include actual transfers of funds, not simulated transfers. The pilot project may include all or some of the vendors in up to eight counties, with no more than two counties from the seven-county Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area. Following initiation of the pilot project, the commissioner shall phase in implementation of the individualized payment rate structure to the remaining counties and vendors according to the implementation plan developed by the task force. The pilot and phase-in shall not extend over more than 18 months and shall be completed by December 31, 2003.

Subd. 2. [SUNSET.] The pilot project shall sunset upon implementation of a new statewide rate structure according to the implementation plan developed by the task force described in subdivision 3, in its report to the legislature on December 1, 2001. The rates of vendors participating in the pilot project must be modified to be consistent with the new statewide rate structure, as implemented. 

Subd. 3. [TASK FORCE RESPONSIBILITIES.] The day training and habilitation task force established under Laws 1999, chapter 152, section 4, shall evaluate the pilot project authorized under subdivision 1, and by December 1, 2001, shall report to the legislature with an implementation plan, which shall address how and when the pilot project individualized payment rate structure will be implemented statewide, shall ensure that vendors that wish to maintain their current per diem rate may do so within the new payment system, and shall identify criteria that would halt statewide implementation if vendors or clients were adversely affected by the new payment rate structure, and with recommendations for any amendments that should be made before statewide implementation. These recommendations shall be made in a report to the chairs of the house health and human services policy and finance committees and the senate health and family security committee and finance division.

Subd. 4. [RATE SETTING.] (a) The rate structure under this section is intended to allow a county to authorize an individual rate for each client in the vendor's program based on the needs and expected outcomes of the individual client. Rates shall be based on an authorized package of services for each individual over a typical time frame. Rates may be established across multiple sites run by a single vendor.

(b) With county concurrence, a vendor shall establish up to four levels of service, A through D, based on the intensity of services provided to an individual client of day training and habilitation services. Service level A shall be the highest intensity of services, marked primarily, but not exclusively, by a one-to-one client-to-staff ratio. Service level D shall be the lowest intensity of services. The county shall document the vendor's description of the type and amount of services associated with each service level.

(c) For each vendor, a county board shall establish a dollar value for one hour of service at each of the service levels defined in paragraph (b). In establishing these values for existing vendors transitioning from the payment rate structure under Minnesota Statutes, section 252.46, subdivision 1, the county board shall follow the formula and guidelines developed by the day training and habilitation task force under paragraph (e).

(d) A vendor may elect to maintain a single transportation rate or may elect to establish up to five types of transportation services: public transportation, public special transportation, nonambulatory transportation, out-of-service area transportation, and ambulatory transportation. For vendors that elect to establish multiple transportation services, the county board shall establish a dollar value for a round trip on each type of transportation service offered through the vendor. With vendor concurrence, the county may also establish a uniform one-way trip value for some or all of the transportation service types.

(e) The county board shall ensure that the vendor translates the vendor's existing program and transportation rates to the rates and values in the pilot project by using the conversion calculations for services and transportation approved by the day training and habilitation task force established under Laws 1999, chapter 152, and included in the task force's recommendations to the legislature. The conversion calculation may be amended by the task force with the approval of the commissioner and any amendments shall become effective upon notification to the pilot project counties from the commissioner. The calculation shall take the total reimbursement dollars available to the vendor and divide by the units of service expected at each service level and of each transportation type. In determining the total reimbursement dollars available to a vendor, the vendor shall multiply the vendor's current per diem rate for both services and transportation, including any new rate increases, by the vendor's actual utilization for the year prior to implementation of the pilot project. Vendors shall be allowed to allocate available reimbursement dollars between service and transportation before the vendor's service level and transportation values are calculated. After translating its existing service and transportation rates to the service level and transportation values under the pilot, the vendor shall project its expected reimbursement income using the expected service and transportation packages for its existing clients, based on current service authorizations. If the projected reimbursement income is less than the vendor would have received under the payment structure of Minnesota Statutes, section 252.46, the vendor and the county, with the approval of the commissioner, shall adjust the vendor's service level and transportation values to eliminate the shortfall. The commissioner shall report all adjustments to the day training and habilitation task force for consideration of possible modifications to the pilot project individualized payment rate structure. 

Subd. 5. [INDIVIDUAL RATE AUTHORIZATION.] (a) As part of its annual authorization of services for each client under Minnesota Statutes, section 252.44, paragraph (a), clause (1), and Minnesota Rules, part 9525.0016, subpart 12, the county shall authorize and document a service package and a transportation package as follows:

(1) the service package shall include the amount and type of services at each applicable service level to be provided to the client over a package period. An individual client may receive services at multiple service levels over the course of the package period. The service package rate shall be the sum of the amount of services at each level over the package period, multiplied by the dollar value for each service level;

(2) the transportation package shall include the amount and type of transportation services to be provided to the client over the package period. The transportation package rate shall be the sum of the amount of transportation services, multiplied by the dollar value associated with the type of transportation service authorized for the client;

(3) the package period shall be established by the county, and may be one week, two weeks, or one month; and