Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to allocate funding to support arts and cultural heritage initiatives specifically for Somali-based programs in Minnesota.

Main Provisions

• The bill provides a total of $1.4 million over two years to the nonprofit organization People in Action. This means $700,000 will be distributed each fiscal year, 2026 and 2027.
• These funds are intended for statewide programs that focus on arts education, mentorship, and community engagement related to Somali culture.
• The Minnesota Humanities Center Board of Directors will manage the appropriations and grant them to People in Action.

Significant Changes

• The bill establishes a dedicated funding stream from the arts and cultural heritage fund specifically for Somali-centered cultural programs, which may not have been previously stipulated or adequately funded in existing laws.

Relevant Terms

arts and cultural heritage, Somali-based programs, People in Action, arts education, community engagement, mentor programs, Minnesota Humanities Center.