The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 299A.477, subdivision 2, to clarify the scope of the Hometown Heroes Assistance Program for firefighters. It establishes that the commissioner of public safety will award a grant to the Minnesota Firefighter Initiative to administer the program, which includes providing monetary support for firefighters diagnosed with critical illnesses, developing a psychotherapy program to address emotional trauma, and coordinating additional psychotherapy sessions as needed.

Key changes include the insertion of provisions for peer-to-peer support within the psychotherapy program and the requirement for at least two hours of training on critical illnesses and emotional trauma, which will now be made available rather than provided annually. The bill also specifies that the training will be conducted by firefighters who have completed a preparatory course. Additionally, it includes an effective date stating that the changes will take effect the day following final enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 299A.477