This bill aims to enhance grants management in Minnesota by establishing training and certification requirements for state employees involved in grants management. It amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, specifically sections 16B.97 and 16B.98, to include new definitions and responsibilities related to grants management. Notably, it introduces a new subdivision that defines "grants management responsibilities" and outlines specific duties that employees must perform, such as developing requests for proposals, monitoring compliance, and processing grant closeouts. Additionally, the bill mandates that granting agencies can only assign grants management responsibilities to certified employees, with provisions for temporary exceptions.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the actions that granting agencies must take following failures by grantees, including documentation of non-compliance and the requirement for unannounced monitoring visits based on the grant amount. It also establishes protocols for reporting fraud or unlawful use of public funds, including cooperation with law enforcement and potential suspension or debarment of grantees. The commissioner is tasked with creating a training curriculum that includes an exam component and continuing education requirements for certification renewal every three years. Overall, the bill seeks to improve accountability and oversight in the management of state grants.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 16B.97, 16B.98