This bill proposes significant amendments to Minnesota's judiciary laws, including the creation of a Statewide Office of Appellate Counsel and Training, which will provide appellate representation to parents involved in juvenile protection cases and offer training for parent attorneys. The governance of this office will be managed by a seven-member board comprising public and judicial appointees, tasked with ensuring high-quality representation and collaboration with the Department of Human Services for federal funding. Additionally, the bill includes appropriations for various judicial entities, increases compensation for justices and judges by four percent annually, allocates funds for law clerks, enhances juror reimbursement rates, and provides a grant for the First Witness Child Advocacy Center in Duluth.

Moreover, the bill amends several sections of Minnesota Statutes to update court filing fees and enhance the responsibilities of the Department of Human Rights. It introduces a provision that prohibits fees for uncertified copies of civil or criminal proceedings and modifies the distribution of fines collected in Ramsey County District Court to ensure proper allocation to state and municipal funds. The bill also expands the duties of the commissioner of human rights to include gathering information on discrimination incidents, thereby strengthening the department's capacity to address discriminatory practices in the state.

Statutes affected:
1st Engrossment: 357.021, 363A.06, 484.85
1st Engrossment: 357.021, 363A.06, 484.85