A new Minnesota law will give counties some reprieve in light of state budget cuts.

The Legislature voted in May to reduce the number of state mandates, relieving counties from a variety of health and human services funding obligations. Most of the changes went into effect Aug. 1.

For example, the law allows children to be placed in treatment centers across state lines if they are closer than an in-state institution. A county board can determine the appropriate level of care when county funds are used to pay for services.

Another change has already been part of much discussion and budget planning in Mower County.

The law now permits counties to cremate the remains of anyone receiving public assistance through the Minnesota Family Investment Program. The county, however, must attempt to contact the next of kin to determine the wishes of the decedent, if known, or the wishes of the family.

The Mower County board on Tuesday voted to make the switch to cremation only, which is projected to save $32,500. However, if a family utilizing the public service wishes to have a more traditional burial, they will be able to do so, provided they cover the difference in cost.

County coordinator Craig Oscarson has acknowledged dealing with mandates as one of the most difficult part of county budgeting.

It can be particularly challenging when state funds are cut but the mandate remains on the book — meaning the county has to find a way to pay.

“You can’t reduce unfunded mandates,” Oscarson said at a July 22 public budget meeting. “You can lobby.”

Currently, Mower County is dealing with $536,118 in cuts in 2009 and another $750,000 to $800,000 in 2010 because of Gov. Tim Pawlenty’s June unallotment — an action he took after the legislative session ended without a balanced budget.

And the money might not come back by 2011 or beyond.

“We’ve been told this is a permanent cut,” Oscarson said. “Don’t expect this money back.”