Court ordered payment for comprehensive assessments covered by medical assistance or the behavioral health fund prohibition provision

SF 1827 prohibits courts from requiring individuals convicted of certain offenses to pay for substance use disorder assessments if those assessments are eligible for reimbursement through Minnesota’s medical assistance (Chapter 254B) or behavioral health fund (Chapter 256B). This applies to court-ordered comprehensive assessments under Minnesota Statutes §169A.284, preventing duplicate payments when government programs already cover the cost. The bill also directs the Human Services Commissioner to develop recommendations for transition support services (like housing, food, and childcare) for people receiving medical assistance or behavioral health fund services after substance use treatment. It amends two statutes (§169A.284 and §245G.031) to clarify these payment rules and accreditation standards. The bill directly affects individuals in the justice system who need substance use assessments and are covered by public health programs.