This bill establishes the position of Director of Grants Management and Oversight within the Minnesota Department of Administration, aimed at enhancing the governance and oversight of grantmaking practices. The Director will be responsible for ensuring compliance with laws related to grants, overseeing the implementation of grant management policies, and serving as a resource for executive agencies. Key responsibilities include reviewing grants management practices, collecting and disseminating information, and establishing a centralized point of contact for grants management policies. The bill also mandates that the Director must have professional experience in auditing and legal compliance related to grantmaking.

Additionally, the bill amends several sections of Minnesota Statutes to reflect these changes, including the transfer of powers and responsibilities from the commissioner to the newly appointed Director. It requires the Director to create general grants management policies applicable to all executive agencies, oversee the approval of grant agreements, and ensure that agencies maintain compliance with grant management standards. The bill also emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in grant processes, requiring agencies to submit annual reports detailing grant activities and ensuring that grantees meet specific criteria before receiving funds. The Director must be appointed by October 1, 2025, through a competitive process.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 16B.97, 16B.98