Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to improve out-of-school and youth programming in Minnesota by evaluating current offerings and identifying areas for enhancement. The state seeks to ensure that programs effectively meet the needs of youth up to 21 years old.

Main Provisions

• Statewide Needs Assessment: The commissioner of children, youth, and families is tasked with evaluating the availability of out-of-school and youth programs across the state. This includes gathering data on existing state, county, and city programs, their funding, and the demographics they serve.

• Community Engagement: The evaluation will incorporate a community engagement process. This involves engaging with youth, families, program providers, community organizations, and experts to identify common barriers and gaps in accessing these programs.

• Recommendations for Improvements: Insights from the community engagement process will be used to recommend ways to improve access to and quality of youth programs.

Significant Changes

• Report Requirement: By February 15, 2026, the commissioner must submit a report to legislative committees. This report will include findings from the assessment and engagement activities, along with finance and policy recommendations aimed at expanding access to quality youth programming.

• Appropriation: The state will allocate funds from the general fund in fiscal year 2026 to support the evaluation and the report's production. This appropriation is for a one-time use.

Relevant Terms

out-of-school programming, youth programming, community engagement, needs assessment, enrichment activities, barriers to access, youth up to 21 years, legislative report, funding mechanisms, public programs