This bill, Minnesota Senate File No. 1573, proposes the establishment of an Occupational Medicine Residency Grant Program under Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 144. The key provisions of the bill are:

1. Definitions:

   • The Commissioner of Health will oversee the program.
   • An occupational medicine residency program is defined as a Minnesota-based medical training program either accredited or a candidate for accreditation, focusing on occupational medicine.

2. Program Administration:

   • The Commissioner of Health will award grants to not-for-profit occupational medicine residency programs.
   • Funding will first prioritize new residency positions, with remaining funds distributed based on the number of existing residents.
   • New residency positions can be funded for up to three years.
   • Grant funds can only be used for:
     • Establishing, maintaining, or expanding training for occupational medicine residents.
     • Recruitment, training, and retention of faculty and residents.
     • Travel and lodging for residents.
     • Salaries for faculty, residents, and preceptors.
     • Training site improvements and necessary equipment.
   • Funds cannot be used to replace existing government or private funding for these purposes.

3. Application Process:

   • Eligible programs must apply to the Commissioner of Health, including a work plan, budget, and explanations of how the funds would support new and existing residency positions.
   • The commissioner has the authority to review applications, require revisions, or request additional information before awarding grants.

4. Program Oversight:

   • The Commissioner of Health must collect data and reports from funded residency programs to evaluate:
     • Expansion of new residency positions.
     • Efforts to enhance existing residency training, such as facility improvements.
   • The commissioner must track and report occupational medicine residency shortages.

5. Appropriation:

   • Funding for the program would come from the Minnesota general fund in fiscal year 2026.
   • A portion of the appropriation may be used for program administration.

This bill aims to address shortages in occupational medicine residency programs in Minnesota by providing targeted financial support to training programs.