This bill establishes a new grant program titled the "Disability Services Technology and Advocacy Expansion Grant" under Minnesota Statutes, section 256.4768. The purpose of the grant is to support the expansion of assistive technology and remote support services for individuals with disabilities, as well as to strengthen advocacy efforts for these individuals and their service providers. The commissioner of human services is tasked with awarding the grant to eligible nonprofit organizations that demonstrate expertise in assistive technology and the capacity to provide education and training. The bill outlines specific allowable uses for the grant funds, including developing training programs, providing resources to advocacy organizations, conducting research, and engaging in outreach initiatives to promote awareness of assistive technology.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for evaluation and reporting requirements, mandating that grant recipients submit annual reports detailing the number of individuals trained, the impact of the technology on quality of life, and recommendations for future advocacy efforts. A final evaluation is also required at the end of the grant period to assess the overall impact on access to assistive technology. The bill appropriates $500,000 from the general fund for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 for this grant program, with a base appropriation set for subsequent years.