Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to enhance public safety in Minnesota by establishing the Minnesota clearance grant program. This program is designed to improve the solve rate of crimes, specifically focusing on nonfatal shootings, by boosting the resources and effectiveness of law enforcement agencies.

Main Provisions

1. Program Establishment: The bill mandates the commissioner of public safety to create the Minnesota clearance grant program. The primary goal is to decrease violent crime by increasing the clearance rate of nonfatal shootings through improved law enforcement strategies and victim support.

2. Grant Eligibility and Prioritization: Law enforcement agencies can apply for grants, with priority given to those with high rates of unsolved nonfatal shootings and inadequate staffing. Agencies must demonstrate plans for interagency cooperation, performance evaluation, and commitment to improving clearance rates.

3. Use of Grant Funds: Funds can be used to hire personnel, pay for overtime, develop policies and training, acquire technical assistance, purchase equipment, enhance information systems, and partner with violence intervention programs.

4. Reporting Requirements: Agencies receiving grants must report twice a year on their activities, including the number of shootings investigated and cleared, personnel changes, training and technology acquisitions, and the program’s impact on clearance rates.

5. Funding: Appropriations for the program are allocated from the general fund for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, with continued funding planned for subsequent years.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

The bill introduces a new program within Minnesota Statutes chapter 299A that is focused specifically on increasing the clearance rates of nonfatal shooting crimes. It emphasizes interagency cooperation and the use of evidence-based practices in law enforcement.

Relevant Terms

• Minnesota clearance grant program
• Nonfatal shootings
• Law enforcement agency
• Investigatory resources
• Forensic evidence
• Interagency cooperation
• Crime clearance rates
• Violence intervention programs