Purpose of the Bill

This bill aims to provide support services to inmates and individuals impacted by the justice system in Minnesota. The goal is to assist these individuals with their reentry into society by enhancing their education, offering mentoring, and providing employment services.

Main Provisions

• Grant Allocation: The Minnesota Commissioner of Corrections is tasked with issuing a request for proposals to identify a suitable nongovernmental organization. This organization will be responsible for delivering virtue-based education, grounded in core correctional practices, as well as mentoring and employment services.
• Application Process: Interested organizations must apply for the grant using a form prescribed by the commissioner.
• Grant Awards: A grant of $500,000 will be awarded by December 1, 2025, to the most qualified applicant to implement the described programs.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Funding Allocation: The bill appropriates $500,000 from the general fund for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to fund this initiative. This funding is expected to be an addition to the current base funding for correctional services.

Relevant Terms

• Corrections
• Virtue-based education
• Mentoring support services
• Employment services
• Justice-impacted individuals
• Grant funding
• Nongovernmental organization