Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to enhance workforce development in Minnesota by providing financial support for training programs specifically designed for New Americans—individuals who are immigrants or refugees—to gain the skills needed for industries that lack a sufficient workforce.

Main Provisions

• Funding Allocation: The bill proposes allocating $550,000 for the fiscal year 2026 and another $550,000 for the fiscal year 2027 from the workforce development fund.
• Grant Recipient: The funds will be directed to the commissioner of employment and economic development to provide a grant to the International Institute of Minnesota.
• Objective of the Grant: The allocated grant must be used explicitly for workforce training programs that help New Americans acquire necessary skills in sectors with significant employment needs.
• Funding Nature: The appropriations described are specified as one-time financial support for this initiative.

Significant Changes

• The proposed appropriation marks a targeted investment in workforce development for New Americans, representing a commitment to recognizing and addressing the specific challenges faced by immigrant and refugee communities in integrating into the workforce.

Relevant Terms

New Americans, workforce training, immigrant support, refugees, employment development, International Institute of Minnesota, workforce development fund