Critical access nursing facilities increased funding appropriation

This bill appropriates $1 million for fiscal year 2026 and $1 million for fiscal year 2027 from the general fund to increase payments to critical access nursing facilities. The funds are specifically designated for rate adjustments under Minnesota Statutes section 256R.47, directly affecting nursing facilities that serve rural communities and provide essential long-term care. The key mechanism is a fixed annual funding increase to support facility operations without requiring new legislative action for each adjustment. This is a straightforward budget allocation with no additional requirements or changes to facility eligibility.