Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to support economic development by providing financial assistance to Comunidades Latinas Unidas En Servicio (CLUES). The funding is focused on addressing disparities in employment, economic opportunities, and technology access for low-income, unemployed, or underemployed individuals in Minnesota, particularly targeting greater Minnesota.

Main Provisions

• The bill appropriates $2,000,000 for fiscal year 2026 and another $2,000,000 for fiscal year 2027.
• These funds are sourced from the state's general fund.
• The grant to CLUES is intended to develop programs for:
  • Short-term certifications and developing transferable skills in high-demand career fields.
  • Workforce readiness initiatives.
  • Customized financial capability training.
  • Employment support services.
• At least 50% of the appropriated funds must be allocated to programs serving communities in greater Minnesota.

Significant Changes

• This bill introduces a new financial commitment from the state to specifically target employment and economic disparities affecting Latino communities and other marginalized groups in Minnesota.
• It emphasizes the development of skills and readiness for high-demand jobs, seeking to bridge the employment gap for low-income populations.

Relevant Terms

economic development, CLUES, employment disparities, technology access, low-income, underemployed, high-demand fields, workforce readiness, financial capability, greater Minnesota, general fund, short-term certifications.