SF1732

This bill, S.F. No. 1732, introduced in the Minnesota Senate, seeks to establish a Family Supportive Housing Grant Program under the Commissioner of Human Services. The bill provides funding for supportive housing programs for families experiencing housing instability.

Key Provisions of the Bill:

1. Program Establishment

   • The Commissioner of Human Services will oversee the grant program.
   • Grants will be competitively awarded to eligible applicants who operate family supportive housing.

2. Definitions:

   • Family: A household with at least one child and one parent or legal guardian.
     
   • Family Permanent Supportive Housing:
     
     • Long-term housing (not time-limited).
       
     • Affordable for families earning at or below 30% of the area median income (AMI).
       
     • Provides specialized supportive services for families, including those experiencing homelessness, mental illness, substance abuse, or who have been referred by child protection services.

3. Eligibility:

   • Nonprofit organizations and Tribal governments that operate family supportive housing programs can apply.

4. Grant Application & Administration:

   • Eligible organizations must apply and estimate the number of families they plan to serve.
     
   • Approved organizations receive $15,000 per family served, subject to funding availability.
     
   • The Commissioner aims to distribute funds geographically:
     
     • 60% to the seven-county metropolitan area.
       
     • 40% to areas outside the metro.
       
     • 10% to families from Minnesota’s Tribal Nations.
       
   • Grantees must submit a report to the Commissioner by June 30, 2026, detailing program activities and services provided.

5. Use of Grant Funds:

   • Funds must be used to provide specialized family support services, which include:
     
     • Education and enrichment programs for children.
       
     • Career planning, job training, and employment assistance.
       
     • Budgeting and financial management training.
       
     • Referrals for counseling, mental health, and substance abuse treatment.
       
     • Parenting skills training and tenant education.
       
     • 24/7 onsite staffing, including security services.
       

6. Appropriation & Funding:

   • The bill appropriates funds for fiscal year 2026 from the Minnesota general fund.
     
   • The funding is one-time and will be available until June 30, 2027.

Purpose and Impact:

The goal of this bill is to support families at risk of homelessness by providing stable housing and essential support services that promote long-term stability and self-sufficiency.