Sen. Paul Utke

Maddy summaryThis bill modifies coverage for chiropractic services under MinnesotaCare and medical assistance programs. It limits non-x-ray chiropractic services to one annual evaluation and 24 visits per year (unless prior authorization is obtained), and restricts x-ray coverage to specific spinal areas (full spine, pelvis, or sacroiliac joints) only when needed for diagnosing subluxation. The bill repeals an older provision that previously stated MinnesotaCare covered "medically necessary exams, manual manipulation, and x-rays" without these specific limits. It directly affects MinnesotaCare and medical assistance program beneficiaries seeking chiropractic care.

Maddy summaryThis bill appropriates $1.5 million for fiscal year 2026 and $1.5 million for fiscal year 2027 from the state general fund to support the Minnesota Family Assets for Independence initiative. The funds will be administered by the commissioner of children, youth, and families for the program's ongoing operations. The appropriation is specifically designated for the initiative as outlined in state law (section 142F.20). This bill provides dedicated funding without altering the program's existing structure or requirements.

Maddy summaryMinnesota Senate File 464 prohibits public schools in Minnesota from using American Indian mascots, nicknames, or symbols as school identifiers starting September 1, 2026, unless an exemption applies. It exempts schools on federally recognized tribal reservations where at least 95% of students are American Indian. Schools must report compliance progress to legislators by February 2025 and 2026, and the state will provide up to $2 million in 2026 to help schools replace prohibited mascots through a new funding program administered by the Department of Education. The bill directly affects all public school districts using such mascots, with specific reporting and funding mechanisms to support transition.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows small farms with fewer than 12 animal units (e.g., one cow, five goats, or five sheep) to sell raw milk and raw milk products directly to consumers under specific conditions. To qualify, farms must register annually ($0 fee for sales under $5,000/year; $50 fee for up to $78,000/year), complete food safety training, provide disease test results for animals, and label products with farm details and a disclaimer that they are not state-inspected. Sales can occur from the farm home (per local rules) or at farmers' markets, exempting these producers from Minnesota's standard pasteurization requirements for milk. The bill amends state law to create this registration system while maintaining safety disclosures for consumers.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends Minnesota law to explicitly state that undocumented noncitizens (those living in the U.S. without U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services approval) are ineligible for MinnesotaCare, the state's health care program. It directly affects undocumented immigrants seeking health coverage through MinnesotaCare, removing their eligibility. The key provision adds a clear citizenship requirement to the statute, defining undocumented noncitizens and stating they cannot qualify for the program. This change does not impact lawfully present noncitizens or individuals with incomes under 200% of the federal poverty level who qualify for other health assistance.

Maddy summarySF 401 increases room and board rates for individuals receiving home and community-based services in Minnesota. The bill requires service providers to submit detailed data on staffing, transportation, and service hours to a rates management system, which lead agencies must use to calculate individual rates. Lead agencies must approve these rates within 30 days or pay a 10% late penalty. It also creates an exception process for individuals with unique needs not covered by standard rates, such as when low rates have caused providers to issue discharge notices.

Maddy summarySF 440, the "Unilateral Emergency Powers Repeal Act," removes the Minnesota governor's authority to unilaterally declare emergencies or issue emergency orders with the force of law. Instead, it requires the legislature to formally declare and extend emergencies, shifting emergency decision-making power from the executive branch to lawmakers. The bill also explicitly protects citizens' rights during emergencies, prohibiting the governor from infringing on free speech, assembly, religious freedom, business operations, or travel. Key provisions repeal specific statutes (like 4.035 and 12.31) that previously granted the governor broad emergency powers under Minnesota law.

Maddy summaryThis bill (SF 462) would amend Minnesota law to allow retired law enforcement officers who are authorized to carry firearms (e.g., those with concealed carry permits) to carry firearms on school property without facing criminal penalties. Currently, possessing firearms on school grounds is typically a felony or misdemeanor, but this bill would make such possession a misdemeanor *only* for these retired officers. It specifically excludes active officers, military personnel, and other existing exceptions listed in the law. The change would take effect August 1, 2025, and clarifies that firearms carried in compliance with this provision would not be subject to forfeiture.

Maddy summarySF 457 would allow Minnesota parents to opt their children out of school face covering requirements without needing to provide a reason or medical evidence. School districts and charter schools must accept such opt-outs from parents and cannot discipline students or treat them differently for this choice. The bill prohibits schools from requiring parents to justify their decision or submit documentation related to a child's health or education. This policy change directly affects parents, students, and school staff in Minnesota public and charter schools.

Maddy summaryThis bill clarifies Minnesota's self-defense laws by eliminating the requirement to retreat before using force outside one's home, expanding the definition of "dwelling" to include occupied vehicles, and creating a legal presumption that a person defending their home or vehicle has a reasonable fear of harm if entry was forced. It directly affects residents and individuals using defensive force in their homes or vehicles. Key provisions remove the duty to retreat outside the home, broaden protected spaces to cover vehicles and temporary structures, and establish a presumption favoring defenders in cases of forced entry. The bill updates Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 609.065, to align with current self-defense standards.