My BmI is 29 - I want the surgery to reverse my type II diabetes - and of course losing weight will be great, too. I am wondering if I need to up my BMI, or if they will accept a pt with a BMI of 29.

Dont know about what lowest bmi is, but just call them and fill out health questionare. I think they take more into account than just bmi. I was 183 but had type 2 and high bloodpressure. Today i am 132 and take no meds for either condition.
My advice is just call worst they say is no your not a candidate, on the other hand you might be.