Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to provide financial support for workforce development programs specifically designed for individuals who are in recovery from substance abuse. This initiative is intended to help these individuals reintegrate into the workforce by funding innovative job placement and training programs.

Main Provisions

• Funding Allocation: An appropriation of $1,000,000 is designated from Minnesota’s general fund for the fiscal year 2026. This funding is allocated to the commissioner of employment and economic development.
• Grant Recipient: The funds will be granted to an organization called Generation Hope, which is responsible for implementing the program.
• Program Components:
  1. Workforce Training: The grant will support training programs tailored to high-demand industries and emerging sectors, targeting skills that are currently required in the job market.
  2. Record Expungement Assistance: Assistance will be provided to help remove legal barriers to employment, such as criminal records, for program participants.
  3. Workforce Coaching: Participants will receive personalized career guidance, mentorship, and job placement services to help them secure employment.
  4. Employment Strategies: The program will utilize innovative strategies to connect participants with sustainable, long-term job opportunities, working in partnership with local employers and community organizations.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

This bill introduces a new one-time appropriation specifically focused on job placement and workforce innovation for individuals in recovery, reflecting a targeted investment in supporting recovery and reintegration.

Relevant Terms

recovery, workforce development, job placement, substance abuse, workforce training, record expungement, mentorship, employment opportunities, high-demand industries, sustainable employment, economic development