Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to establish the Age-Friendly Minnesota Council to support making Minnesota a more age-friendly state. This involves coordinating efforts across various sectors, including government, businesses, communities, and nonprofits, to support the needs of older adults.

Main Provisions

• Council Establishment: The bill creates the Age-Friendly Minnesota Council consisting of 15 voting members, including representatives from various state agencies and six public members appointed by the governor.
• Council's Duties: The council's responsibilities include promoting the voice of older adults in developing state policies, engaging with the community, identifying collaboration opportunities, and making budget and policy recommendations to further age-friendly initiatives.
• Meeting Protocols: The council must meet at least quarterly, with provisions for meetings to be held electronically and remotely accessible.
• Grant Programs: Establishment of two grant programs:
  • Age-Friendly Community Grants: Aimed at supporting communities in becoming more age-friendly by addressing health services, transportation, affordable housing, and reducing social isolation.
  • Age-Friendly Technical Assistance Grants: Designed to aid communities in applying for and implementing projects related to age-friendly initiatives.

Significant Changes

• Conversion & Codification: The bill converts the existing Governor’s Council on an Age-Friendly Minnesota into a permanent statutory council and transfers its responsibilities to the newly formed Age-Friendly Minnesota Council.
• Grant Funding: Appropriations are included, allocating $1.5 million annually for age-friendly community grants, and $863,000 annually for technical assistance grants in fiscal years 2026 and 2027.

Relevant Terms

Age-Friendly, Older Adults, Minnesota Board on Aging, Public Members, Community Engagement, Grant Programs, State Initiatives, Equity, Older Adults Disparities, Human Services.