This bill appropriates a total of $500,000 from the general fund for the fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to support mental health services and outdoor activities for law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical services personnel. The funds are designated for a grant to Hometown Hero Outdoors, a nonprofit organization based in Stillwater, Minnesota. The aim is to promote positive mental health, enhance quality of life, and facilitate interactions with mental health professionals through outdoor recreational activities and public education.
The bill emphasizes the importance of mental health support for individuals currently serving or who have served in these critical professions. By providing these resources, the legislation seeks to ensure that these first responders have access to necessary mental health services and opportunities for outdoor engagement, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being and longevity in their careers.