Bill > HF3201

This bill establishes a comprehensive jail diversion and reentry support program for individuals with mental illnesses and substance use disorders in Minnesota counties. The legislation expands existing requirements for discharge planning for prisoners with serious and persistent mental illnesses, mandating that counties complete a discharge plan at least 14 days before release that includes assistance with medical applications, case management referrals, identification, medical appointments, and medication prescriptions. The bill creates a new grant program administered by the Commissioner of Corrections to help counties develop jail diversion initiatives, which can include services like meeting basic needs after release, coordinating social services, and connecting individuals with community mental health providers. Counties can use grant funds to hire staff, provide services, and develop partnerships with mobile crisis teams and local mental health providers. Importantly, grantees will be required to provide data to help evaluate the program's effectiveness, and the commissioner must develop and publicly share outcome measures annually. The bill also includes an appropriation to fund these jail diversion grants in fiscal years 2026 and 2027, with a continuing base appropriation in subsequent years. The overall goal is to reduce incarceration and improve support for individuals with mental health and substance use challenges by providing more comprehensive, community-based interventions.

Justice

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF3201&ssn=0&y=2025