This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 197.608, subdivision 6, to modify the veterans service office grant program. It establishes that each county is eligible for an annual grant of $7,500 to support various initiatives aimed at assisting veterans, including outreach, reintegration, collaboration with social service agencies, reducing homelessness, and enhancing county veterans service office operations. Additionally, counties can receive an extra annual grant based on their veteran population, with amounts ranging from $0 to $20,000 depending on the size of the veteran community.

Furthermore, the bill increases the annual grant for the Minnesota Association of County Veterans Service Officers from $100,000 to $160,000, with specific allocations for training and technical assistance coordinators. It also appropriates $60,000 for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 from the general fund to support the Minnesota Association of County Veterans Service Officers, designating funds for coordinators focused on women veterans, veteran suicide prevention, and justice-involved veterans. The bill ensures that any unencumbered balance from fiscal year 2026 will carry over into fiscal year 2027.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 197.608