Families across Minnesota caring for children with disabilities will soon have access to expanded support services. During the 2025 legislative session, Sen. Jordan Rasmusson (R-Fergus Falls) authored bipartisan legislation to restore vital out-of-home respite services. Senate File 446 gives families the opportunity to take a temporary step back while ensuring their child continues to receive quality care.

Rasmusson emphasized the importance of practical, family-centered solutions. 

“Senate File 446 is a win for families across Minnesota,” said Rasmusson. “It brings back vital respite services, helping children with complex needs remain at home while giving parents the time and support they need.”

The bill addresses a regulatory change from 2021 that unintentionally restricted respite options. Under that law, not only did caregivers need to be licensed, but the homes or settings where care occurred also had to undergo a separate licensing process. This duplicative requirement left many families without access to critical respite. SF 446 restores flexibility by removing the additional setting license, while maintaining strong licensing and oversight requirements for all providers.

The legislation has drawn strong support from disability service providers, advocacy groups, and families who have been advocating for more options. 

“Senator Rasmusson’s Out-of-Home Respite bill (SF 446) restores a service that provides families the support needed to keep their child with a disability in the family home,” said Jon Nelson, Executive Director of Residential Services, Inc. (RSI). “Removing the unnecessary setting licensing requirement means there will again be people who will open their homes and provide out-of-home respite to give families the important break they need.”

To balance flexibility with safety, the legislation includes important safeguards. Providers must hold a current Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) license, remain in good standing, and meet all background study requirements. Respite is capped at a maximum of four children at a time, with each child having their own bedroom. Additionally, families may use respite for no more than 46 total days per year. Annual reviews by case managers and legal representatives ensure each setting is safe and appropriate for the child.

Additionally, Tyler Lagenfeld, Vice President of 245D, Accra, praised the bill’s impact on flexibility and safety. 

“This legislation expands respite options for families with minor children, giving them greater flexibility while ensuring care remains safe and high-quality. Accra was proud to support Senator Rasmusson’s Out-of-Home Respite bill,” he said.

SF 446 will take effect on Jan. 1, 2026.