Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to support workforce development by promoting diversity in the legal profession. It seeks to provide financial and educational assistance to Black undergraduate students in Minnesota who are interested in attending law school and pursuing careers in the legal field.

Main Provisions

• Funding Appropriation: The bill allocates $350,000 for fiscal year 2026 and another $350,000 for fiscal year 2027 from the workforce development fund. This money is designated for a grant to the Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers.
• Student Enrollment: The program will enroll Black Minnesota residents who are full-time students at four-year postsecondary institutions in Minnesota.
• Scholarships and Support: Each participating student will receive an academic scholarship of $4,000 per academic year. The program will provide LSAT preparation materials and test registration, as well as academic support.
• Events and Mentoring: The program will organize events, offering one-on-one mentoring to help familiarize students with law school and legal careers. Events will cover related costs like food and transportation.
• Staff Hiring: Funds can be used to hire staff necessary to administer the program.

Reporting Requirements

• The Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers must submit detailed reports by January 30, 2026, and January 30, 2027. These reports should account for program outcomes, revenues, expenses, and the usage of state funds.

Significant Changes

• This bill represents a new investment aimed at increasing diversity within the legal profession by directly supporting Black undergraduate students financially and academically as they prepare for law school.

Relevant Terms: workforce development, Black undergraduate students, law school, scholarships, LSAT preparation, legal careers, Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers.