Purpose of the Bill

The bill seeks to create a pilot program focused on reducing trauma caused by gun violence in Minnesota. It aims to address the root causes of gun violence and provide support to communities affected by it.

Main Provisions

1. Community Investment: The pilot program will invest in community-based organizations to work with individuals at high risk of experiencing gun violence. These organizations will receive training on healing practices and evidence-based approaches to address trauma from gun violence.

2. Family Support Services: The program introduces trauma navigators to help families affected by gun violence. These navigators will be trained in trauma-informed care and will assist families in accessing necessary resources like childcare, housing, mental health, economic support, and education.

3. Reintegration Services: Families will be educated about alternative responses to gun violence, including self-advocacy and maintaining healthy community relationships.

4. Educational Campaigns: The program will develop educational outreach that uses nonviolent language to illustrate the relationship between gun violence and trauma. These campaigns will be culturally appropriate and available in multiple languages.

5. Collaborations and Contracts: The commissioner can partner with or provide grants to community organizations or individuals with a background in community healing to carry out these initiatives.

6. Advisory Panel: An advisory panel will be established to guide the development of program guidelines and protocols. The panel will consist of individuals experienced in trauma, care, and community resources, and they will meet monthly to review activities and provide input.

7. Reporting: By February 1, 2027, a report evaluating the pilot program’s progress in reducing trauma from gun violence is to be submitted to the legislative committees on health and public safety.

Significant Changes

The bill appropriates $5,000,000 from the general fund for fiscal year 2026 to the Minnesota Department of Health to support this pilot program. The funds will be available until June 30, 2028.

Relevant Terms

• Gun Violence
• Trauma-Informed Care
• Community-Based Organizations
• Healing Services
• Trauma Navigators
• Educational Campaigns
• Advisory Panel