The bill proposes the establishment of the Sankofa Empowerment Center, aimed at providing culturally responsive services to Black youth with a history of involvement in the juvenile justice or child welfare systems. It appropriates $2,000,000 from the general fund for fiscal year 2026 to Rebound, Inc., a nonprofit organization focused on serving justice-involved youth. The funds will be allocated for property acquisition, facility construction, staffing, program development, and operational costs necessary for the center's establishment and operation. This appropriation is designated as a one-time funding initiative.
Additionally, the bill stipulates that the commissioner of human services will not retain any funds for administrative costs, ensuring that the entire appropriation is directed towards the center's establishment. Rebound, Inc. is also required to submit a report by January 15, 2027, to the commissioner and relevant legislative committees, detailing the use of the funds, the number of youth served, program outcomes, partnerships developed, and recommendations for future funding and expansion.