Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to establish a Veteran Relocation Bonus Program to encourage recently terminated federal employees who are veterans to move to Minnesota and join the state's workforce.

Main Provisions

• Eligibility: The program targets veterans whose federal employment was involuntarily terminated on or after January 20, 2025. These veterans must not have been Minnesota residents on January 20, 2025, but must become residents by January 1, 2027. Additionally, they need to secure employment in Minnesota, working at least 20 hours per week by the same date.
• Bonus Amount: Eligible veterans can apply for a relocation bonus of $10,000, which the Commissioner of Employment and Economic Development will award on a rolling basis.
• Reporting Requirement: By March 1, 2027, a report on the program's outcomes must be submitted to relevant legislative committees.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

This bill introduces a new program that does not amend existing laws but supplements them with a targeted initiative to bring veterans into Minnesota’s workforce.

Financial Appropriation

• An appropriation of $6,000,000 is made for fiscal year 2026 from the workforce development fund to support the program. Of this, $50,000 is allocated for outreach and promotion to ensure eligible veterans are informed about the program. The funds are available until June 30, 2027.

Relevant Terms

veteran relocation, bonus program, workforce development, federal employment termination, commissioner of employment and economic development, residency, relocation bonus, workforce development fund.