Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to improve public safety in Minnesota by establishing the Minnesota Clearance Grant Program. This program is designed to increase the solve rate of crimes involving nonfatal shootings by providing financial and technical assistance to law enforcement agencies.

Main Provisions

• Establishment of the Minnesota Clearance Grant Program: The program will offer grants to law enforcement agencies to support initiatives that increase the clearance rates of nonfatal shootings.
• Grant Application and Prioritization: Law enforcement agencies need to apply for grants, with priority given to those with high rates of unsolved nonfatal shootings, inadequate staffing, and a clear plan for interagency cooperation.
• Use of Funds: Grant money can be used for:
  • Hiring additional staff for investigations
  • Paying overtime for existing investigators
  • Developing evidence-based policies and training
  • Purchasing technical assistance and advanced technology
  • Supporting victim-witness coordinators
  • Partnering with hospital-based intervention programs
• Reporting Requirements: Agencies receiving grants must report twice a year on activities and improvements related to nonfatal shooting clearance rates, personnel changes, technology upgrades, and other related efforts.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• New Law in Chapter 299A: This bill proposes adding a new section to the Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 299A, specifically establishing the Minnesota Clearance Grant Program.
• Enhanced Support for Law Enforcement: This program emphasizes collaboration, resource sharing, and adoption of new technologies and strategies across multiple law enforcement agencies and jurisdictions.

Relevant Terms

Minnesota Clearance Grant Program, nonfatal shootings, law enforcement agencies, crime clearance rates, interagency cooperation, forensic evidence, victim services, public safety.