ST. PAUL, MN – Yesterday, Governor Walz held a ceremonial bill signing and celebration for the mental health package lawmakers passed late last month. This package invests in the state’s mental health system which will increase hospital bed capacity, attract new mental health care professionals, and expand the use of mobile crisis services. The new law also includes $30 million to create an improved system to better serve those involved in the criminal justice system who are found not competent to stand trial.
Representative Kelly Morrison (DFL-Deephaven), a practicing physician, authored two key provisions that were included in the final legislation. The first extends temporary licenses for doctors, physician assistants, and respiratory therapists practicing from out of state to ease workforce shortages. Another provision authored by Rep. Morrison expands intensive in-home mental health treatment in foster care services to be available for children who reside with guardians or family members.
“Mental health crises are on the rise, and now more than ever, it’s critical to invest in the care Minnesotans need access to,” said Rep. Morrison. “We have more to do in this area of health care, but this new law will help expand access for our children and most vulnerable neighbors, and that’s a good start.”
The governor signed the bill into law on June 2. Photos from the event are attached and courtesy of Senate Media Services.
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