Policy Updates

Program Policy & Procedure Updates: September 2026

Merrick has updated several program policies and procedures that impact service delivery due to changes in Minnesota state law passed during the 2026 legislative session.

While Minnesota Statutes, chapter 245D.10, subdivision 4, generally requires providers to give 30 days’ written notice before making revisions to policies affecting individuals’ rights and maltreatment procedures, the varying effective dates of the new laws made this timeline impossible to meet. The updated policies and procedures took effect on September 1, 2026.

Below is a summary of the policy and procedure changes and their impact on service delivery.

Service Suspension and Service Termination

One reason for service suspension or termination was previously nonpayment for services. That provision has been revised to clarify that services will not be suspended or terminated solely due to an interruption in a person’s public benefits that has lasted less than 60 days.

Reporting and Review of Maltreatment of Vulnerable Adults

Definitions of abuse, financial exploitation, and neglect were updated in 2026 legislation. The definitions have been updated at the end of the policy and procedure to reflect those changes.

Reporting and Review of Maltreatment of Minors

Suspected maltreatment in federally certified psychiatric residential treatment facilities should be reported to the Minnesota Department of Health.

Anti-Fraud

New legislative language around the requirements of medical assistance enrolled providers needing a compliance program and the responsibilities of the Public Funds Compliance Officer. Policy and procedure updated to reflect that new language.

Service Recipient Rights

New rights were added for minor children.

Full Policy & Procedure Manual

The complete Merrick policy and procedure manual, including all updates related to the 2026 legislative changes, is available for download below. We will mail a hard copy to you with a written request.

Questions

Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.