This bill, H.F. No. 1637, introduced in the Minnesota House of Representatives, establishes a pilot program under the Minnesota Department of Health aimed at reducing trauma from gun violence and addressing its root causes. The program includes the following components:

1. Investing in Community-Based Organizations – Providing funding for organizations that assist individuals at high risk of gun violence or those affected by trauma related to gun violence.
2. Stabilization Services for Affected Families – Training trauma navigators in trauma-informed care to support families impacted by gun violence by helping them access essential services such as child care, housing, mental and physical health services, economic support, and education.
3. Reintegration Services – Educating families on alternative responses to gun violence, including strategies for self-advocacy, community reintegration, and mental health healing.
4. Educational Campaigns – Developing and distributing nonviolent, culturally relevant educational materials in multiple languages to raise awareness about the link between gun violence and trauma.

The commissioner of health may enter into contracts or provide grants to community-based organizations or community members experienced in gun violence intervention to carry out program activities.

Additionally, the bill establishes an advisory panel of ten members with expertise in trauma-informed care, healing practices, financial skills, and community resources. This panel will advise the commissioner on program guidelines, review pilot program activities, and communicate with affected communities.

The commissioner must submit a progress report by February 1, 2027, to legislative committees overseeing health and public safety.

The bill appropriates $5 million in fiscal year 2026 from the general fund to support the pilot program, with funding available until June 30, 2028.