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Minnesota State Legislative Elder Justice Policy: Recap from 2026 and What’s Next

With the 2026 Minnesota legislative session over and the 2027 session set to begin in a few months, MEJC’s policy work has continued in the off-season.  Last session, MEJC was engaged across multiple priorities affecting older and vulnerable adults, working in coalition with our long-standing partners on resident protections in long term care; seeking funding for supported decision-making grants; and pushing for consumer safeguards against private equity ownership in long term care.

Key Legislation That Passed Last Session

MEJC’s policy advocacy work to advance the rights of those living in long term care settings is done in coalition with our partners, including AARP Minnesota, Mid-MN Legal Aid, Office of Ombudsman for Long-Term Care, and Office of Ombudsman for Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities. Two key wins this session:

  • Guardianship as a prerequisite to admission, prohibited (SF 3844). Long-term care facilities, including 245D-licensed settings, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes, can no longer require guardianship or conservatorship as a condition of admission. This protects the autonomy of vulnerable adults and prevents unnecessary guardianships.
  • Restraints guidance in 144G assisted living facilities (SF 4418). For the first time since Minnesota’s Assisted Living licensure law took effect in 2021, providers and residents have clear guidelines on the use of restraints. This closes a gap that has left both groups without guidance.

What Didn’t Pass

Two priorities did not pass this session:

  • Private equity protections in long term care (SF 2972). The bill advanced further than in any previous session, and came close to final passage, but was removed behind closed doors in conference committee. As for-profit companies, including private equity firms, continue to acquire long-term care facilities, this remains a top priority.
  • Supported decision-making grant funding. A $2 million one-time appropriation to continue Minnesota’s network of supported decision-making grant program started in 2023 was not included in the final bill this legislative session. Existing grant funding expired June 30, 2026, putting at risk programs that prevent unnecessary guardianship, restore decision-making rights, and operate the statewide guardianship consultation line. Studies show every $1 invested in supported decision-making returns $2.75 in savings.

What’s Next in 2027 for MEJC’s Policy Efforts

The 2027 legislative session begins on January 12, 2027. Look for a December 17 pre-session state policy webinar from Sean Burke, MEJC’s policy consultant. Sean will provide an overview of the session, and highlight MEJC’s priorities, including resident protections in long term care; consumer safeguards against private equity ownership in long term care; and advancing supported decision-making services and supports to avoid unnecessary guardianships and conservatorships.

You can find an expanded recap of the 2026 session here, or view our June 2026 State Policy recap webinar.