Purpose of the Bill

The bill is designed to allocate funds to support mental health services provided by the African American Child Wellness Institute. This institution is a community mental health center that focuses on serving African American children and families.

Main Provisions

• Funding: The bill appropriates $5,250,000 for the fiscal year 2026 and $5,512,500 for the fiscal year 2027 from Minnesota's general fund. These amounts are directed to the commissioner of human services to be granted to the African American Child Wellness Institute.

• Use of Funds: The funds are intended to enhance the Institute’s capability to deliver culturally specific, trauma-informed mental health services, as well as substance use disorder services. This includes supervision, training, and care coordination for African American individuals and families, without consideration of their financial situation or residency.

• Long-Term Support: The appropriations will continue into fiscal years 2028 and 2029, with the same amounts added to the budget base each year.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

The bill itself does not alter existing laws; instead, it provides new funding aimed at improving access to culturally relevant mental health services for African American children and families in Minnesota.

Relevant Terms

African American, mental health services, substance use disorder, trauma-informed, culturally specific, community mental health center, fiscal appropriations.