SF1397

This bill proposes the creation of a pilot program to introduce a new training system for managers in some state departments in Minnesota. The main idea is to have these managers gain hands-on experience by periodically working the same jobs as the people they supervise. This approach aims to give managers a better understanding of the day-to-day challenges their teams face.

The bill specifies that the program will be run in three departments: 1. Department of Corrections (for managers overseeing guards), 2. Department of Human Services (for managers overseeing group home employees), 3. Department of Transportation (for managers overseeing road and bridge construction workers).

A private business consulting service with experience in enhancing customer service through such training will be hired to help design and implement the program. This service will also assist in developing training materials and identifying other managerial positions that could benefit from similar training.

The bill authorizes necessary funding from the state's general fund and sets a timeline, requiring pilot projects to be completed by July 2026, and for final reports and plans for broader training to be submitted by August 2026. The ultimate goal is for these departments to begin using these new training methods by the start of 2027.