The bill establishes a biennial budget for jobs, labor, and economic development in Minnesota, appropriating funds to various state agencies, including the Department of Employment and Economic Development and the Department of Labor and Industry. It outlines specific funding allocations for programs focused on business development, child care support, contaminated site cleanup, and job training, with significant provisions for grants to local communities to enhance child care services and support small business development, particularly in rural areas. The appropriations are designated for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, with some funds available until June 30, 2029. Additionally, the bill modifies existing economic development policies, including new legal language that specifies conditions for appropriations, ensuring that if an appropriation is enacted multiple times, it will only be effective once, and repeals certain sections of Minnesota Statutes to reflect a shift in policy direction.

The bill also emphasizes workforce development and support for underrepresented communities, proposing one-time appropriations for various grants aimed at enhancing job training and educational opportunities. Key allocations include funding for organizations that provide support to marginalized groups, such as the Coalition of Asian American Leaders and WomenVenture, as well as initiatives targeting youth and individuals with disabilities. The bill mandates reporting requirements for organizations receiving funding to ensure accountability and transparency. Furthermore, it introduces provisions for the establishment of the Office of Public Service to promote public service opportunities and align them with workforce development strategies, while also amending existing laws to enhance financial support for eligible projects and improve workforce development initiatives. Overall, the legislation aims to foster economic growth and improve job opportunities for marginalized communities through targeted financial support and strategic initiatives.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 116J.431, 116J.659, 116J.8733, 116J.8752, 116L.03, 116L.04, 116L.05, 116L.562, 116L.665, 116L.90, 116L.98, 116M.18, 116U.05, 116U.06, 116U.15, 116U.30, 116U.35, 248.07, 268.184, 268B.14, 469.54, 177.253, 177.254, 177.27, 181.211, 181.725, 181.9447, 181.9448, 326B.0981, 326B.103, 326B.184, 326B.31, 326B.33, 326B.37, 326B.43, 326B.49, 326B.986, 327.31, 327.32, 327.33, 327B.04, 327B.041, 327B.05