HF541

This legislative bill proposes the establishment of a reimbursement program for postsecondary schools in Minnesota that provide use of force training to peace officers. A total of $2,500,000 is allocated for the fiscal year 2025 from the general fund to support this initiative.

Key points of the bill include:

1. Funding Allocation: The Office of Higher Education will distribute this fund as reimbursement grants to eligible postsecondary schools that offer approved use of force training programs.

2. Training Requirements: Eligible training programs must meet specific standards, including scenario-based training that uses non-lethal ammunition, instruction on the physical and psychological effects of stress, and blocks of instruction on de-escalation methods, bias motivation, unknown risk training, defensive tactics, and force-on-force training.

3. Reimbursement Rate: Schools will receive $450 for each officer who completes the training. Schools need to apply for reimbursement and submit the necessary details of the officers who received the training.

4. Access to Training: Training must be provided at no charge to the participating peace officers or their associated law enforcement agency.

This bill aims to enhance the quality and accessibility of use of force training for peace officers, improving both the safety and effectiveness of law enforcement in Minnesota.