SF1832

This bill proposes a biennial budget for the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) and Explore Minnesota for fiscal years 2026 and 2027. It includes various policy changes, appropriations, and funding allocations for economic development, workforce services, business assistance programs, and infrastructure investments.

Key Provisions:

1. Budget Allocations:

   • Total appropriations for DEED:
     
     • $181.87 million in FY 2026
       
     • $147.09 million in FY 2027
       
   • Funds will be distributed across business development, workforce training, and economic assistance programs.

2. Business and Community Development:

   • $46.07 million each year for business and community development initiatives.
     
   • $8 million annually for the Minnesota Job Creation Fund.
     
   • $12.37 million annually for the Minnesota Investment Fund to support business growth.
     
   • Funding for childcare expansion, rural business grants, small business technical assistance, and redevelopment programs.

3. Workforce Development:

   • $35.75 million per year for workforce development programs.
     
   • Funding directed for youth workforce programs, job training, career counseling, and employment assistance programs.
     
   • Includes $8 million annually for the "Drive for Five" initiative to promote careers in high-demand industries.
     

4. Paid Family and Medical Leave:

   • $40.54 million in FY 2026 and $5 million in FY 2027 from the family and medical benefit insurance account.
     

5. Vocational Rehabilitation and Services for the Blind:

   • Over $39 million per year for state vocational rehabilitation programs.
     
   • $8.4 million annually for services assisting blind Minnesotans.

6. Minnesota Forward Fund:

   • Funds designated to match state investments with federal economic development opportunities.
     
   • $50 million allocated for business incentives under federal programs.
     

7. Policy Changes and Amendments:

   • Increases the grant cap for workforce training programs from $400,000 to $500,000.
     
   • Expands the Minnesota Forward Fund to support high-tech and manufacturing projects.
     
   • Modifies rules for workforce programs and economic support initiatives.
     

8. Explore Minnesota:

   • Tourism promotion funding with a 6:1 private-sector match requirement.
     

Overall, the bill seeks to enhance Minnesota’s business environment, workforce readiness, and economic competitiveness by funding various programs and initiatives supporting businesses, workers, and communities across the state.