This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 15.0145, by adding a new subdivision that establishes a pool of alternate members for the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs, the Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage, and the Council on Asian-Pacific Minnesotans. Each council will appoint two alternate members for every regular member, creating a two-to-one ratio to ensure full participation and quorum during meetings. The governor will appoint these alternates, who must meet the same eligibility and diversity criteria as regular members, and will prioritize individuals with relevant expertise. The bill outlines the terms of service for alternate members, including their rotation into active service when regular members are absent and their full voting rights during such times.

Additionally, the bill mandates that councils track attendance and participation of both regular and alternate members, with provisions for removal of alternates who do not fulfill their duties. Regular members who miss more than half of scheduled meetings within a year may be replaced by an alternate, pending the governor's approval. Each council is also required to submit an annual report to the governor and relevant legislative committees detailing the use and impact of alternate members on council operations. The provisions of this bill will take effect the day following its final enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 15.0145