Bill > SF1898

This bill requires the commissioner of children, youth, and families to conduct two major evaluations of Minnesota's child welfare system. First, the commissioner must contract with an independent third-party consultant to perform a comprehensive fiscal analysis of the child welfare system, which will examine financial systems, funding sources, federal reimbursement opportunities, and staffing resources. The consultant must evaluate specific areas including federal funding sources like Title IV-E and Title IV-B, the implementation of the Family First Prevention Services Act, and the social service information system. A final report with recommendations is due by June 30, 2027, addressing potential state investments, federal reimbursement strategies, and necessary legislative changes. Simultaneously, another third-party consultant will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of child welfare programs, practices, and services, engaging with local agencies, community advocates, and individuals with lived experience in the system. This consultant must provide an initial status report by July 1, 2027, and a final report with legislative recommendations by July 1, 2028. An advisory task force consisting of representatives from various state agencies, advocacy groups, and ombudspersons will support and advise the consultants throughout this process. Each of Minnesota's 11 federally recognized Tribal Nations may participate in the evaluations and will have sovereignty over their shared data. The bill includes a one-time appropriation to fund these comprehensive reviews of the child welfare system.

Health and Social Services

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF1898&ssn=0&y=2025