Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to support individuals with disabilities in Minnesota by providing funding for employment opportunities and career skills programming. This includes appropriations specifically designated for inclusive employment services and career skills training.

Main Provisions

• Funding for Employment Opportunities: The bill allocates $450,000 for each fiscal year 2026 and 2027 from the workforce development fund. These funds will be given as grants to Minnesota Diversified Industries (MDI) to enhance inclusive employment services for people with disabilities. This portion of the funding is intended to be a one-time appropriation.

• Career Skills Programming: An additional $250,000 is appropriated from the general fund in fiscal year 2026 to support a grant to MDI. This grant will assist individuals with disabilities through the unified work model. The initiative includes both virtual and in-person career skills classes, supported with virtual reality tools.

• Reporting Requirement: MDI is required to submit a report by January 15, 2028. This report should provide details on the number and demographics of individuals served, the hours of career skills programming provided, outreach efforts to employers, and recommendations for future career skills delivery methods.

Significant Changes

• The bill creates new funding opportunities for employment and career development for individuals with disabilities, using state appropriations specifically intended to enhance these services.
• It introduces augmented career skills training using virtual reality, emphasizing modern instructional methods.

Relevant Terms

• Disability employment
• Inclusive employment
• Career skills training
• Virtual reality tools
• Workforce development
• Unified work model