This bill (S.F. No. 2197) proposes the establishment of a Driver's Education Financial Assistance Pilot Program in Minnesota. The program, overseen by the Department of Public Safety, aims to provide grants to eligible entities (such as schools, local governments, tribal organizations, and nonprofits) to help low-income or disadvantaged youth (ages 15-24) gain access to driver’s education courses and driver’s licenses.

Key Provisions:

1. Eligibility Criteria:

   • Youth must be aged 15-24 and meet at least one condition, such as:
     • Homelessness or receiving housing support
     • Placement in foster care
     • Receiving financial assistance via programs like the Minnesota Family Investment Program
     • Participation in juvenile diversion/restorative justice programs
     • Facing financial hardship preventing access to driver's education

2. Funding & Administration:

   • A special revenue account will be created.
   • Grants will cover the costs of:
     • Driver's education tuition
     • Permit and license fees
     • Vehicle rental for road tests
     • Other preparatory materials
   • Financial aid up to $2,000 per eligible youth.
   • Up to $700 can be used to pay off fines or fees obstructing license acquisition.

3. Pilot Expansion & Community Involvement:

   • At least one urban, rural, suburban, and tribal community will host the program.
   • Eligible entities must collaborate with schools and community-based organizations.
   • Up to 200 youth per location can participate.

4. Data Collection & Reporting:

   • Participating entities will report yearly on expenditures and outcomes (such as the number of people receiving licenses).
   • The Commissioner of Public Safety will submit a report to the Minnesota Legislature by January 15, 2027.

5. Driver’s Education Work Group:

   • A work group, including the Commissioners of Education, Public Safety, and Employment and Economic Development, will analyze driver education availability in Minnesota.
   • The group's recommendations (due by February 1, 2026) will focus on improving access for low-income students and identifying permanent funding sources.

6. Expiration & Funding:

   • The pilot program expires on June 30, 2028.
   • A one-time appropriation of $3,850,000 from the General Fund is allocated for fiscal year 2026.

Purpose:

The bill aims to expand drivers' education access, particularly for disadvantaged youth, improve employment opportunities, and remove financial barriers to obtaining a driver’s license.