The bill proposes an appropriation of $250,000 for each of the fiscal years 2026 and 2027 from the general fund to the commissioner of children, youth, and families. This funding is designated for grants to nationally recognized forensic interview protocol organizations, which will be used to provide scholarships for various levels of forensic interview training, including basic and advanced training, as well as specialized topics.
Eligible recipients of these scholarships include individuals working in law enforcement, child protection, prosecution, health professionals involved in child maltreatment cases, and forensic interviewers at children's advocacy centers. The aim of the bill is to enhance the skills and training of professionals who play a critical role in the investigation and management of child maltreatment cases in Minnesota.