Committee preserves remote-supports option after debate

Senators on the joint Human Services and Health and Human Services committees voted informally to carry forward amendment A12, which would preserve remote supports and monitoring technology as an option for people receiving services in community residential settings.

Senator Fata, sponsor of A12, said the amendment removes statutory language that would have repealed remote supports and instead inserts oversight language requiring providers and third-party monitoring entities to meet emergency-response-time ratios. "Remote supports and monitoring technology is safe, is cost effective, and it is person centered," Fata said, adding that the change would protect people who rely on services that allow them to remain at home without 24-hour staff.

Christy Grama of DHS said the agency had program-integrity concerns and would need to review how to document appropriateness for remote services; Grama warned the amendment could "undermine the governor's position" and asked for technical work with providers to avoid unintended consequences.

Supporters emphasized access across Minnesota and the workforce shortage in direct care: "Remote services is the future...We are running out of human beings," Senator Abler said during debate.

Committee members reported strong informal support during the roll call and said the A12 language will be incorporated into the consolidated draft for further work with DHS and stakeholders.