This Minnesota House bill (H.F. No. 1341) focuses on public safety and support for law enforcement. Key provisions of the bill include:

1. Law Enforcement Appreciation Day – Establishes January 9 as Law Enforcement Appreciation Day in Minnesota, recognizing the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers. The governor is required to issue an annual proclamation for this observance.

2. Law Enforcement Explorer Programs in Schools – Encourages school boards to partner with law enforcement agencies to offer law enforcement explorer programs in middle and high schools. These programs aim to educate students about law enforcement careers and the criminal justice system. The programs can be integrated into the curriculum, offered as electives, or as after-school activities. Students completing elective courses would receive school credit.

3. Peace Officer Training Assistance Appropriation – Allocates $6 million in fiscal years 2026 and 2027 from the general fund to the Peace Officer Standards and Training Board. These funds support law enforcement training and best practices, reimbursing agencies for board-approved training courses that meet statutory training requirements for peace officers.

4. Pathway to Policing Appropriation – Allocates $1 million in fiscal year 2026 to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety for reimbursement grants to local governments that operate "Pathway to Policing" programs. These programs aim to recruit individuals from nontraditional backgrounds into law enforcement careers. Grants cover up to 50% of the compensation and training costs for participants, with funds distributed proportionally based on approved applications.

The bill is intended to support law enforcement through training, recruitment initiatives, and public recognition while encouraging career exploration in schools.