Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to enhance workforce development by supporting Black undergraduate students in Minnesota who are interested in pursuing law school and legal careers. It seeks to provide resources and opportunities to facilitate these students' entrance into the legal profession.

Main Provisions

• Grant Allocation: The bill proposes the appropriation of $350,000 per fiscal year (2026 and 2027) from the workforce development fund to the Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers.
• Program Structure: The funding will support a program targeting full-time Black students at Minnesota’s baccalaureate degree-granting institutions who are preparing for law school.
  • Each selected student will receive an academic scholarship of $4,000 annually.
  • The program will include mentoring, events, and other activities to introduce students to law school and legal careers.
  • Students will receive free test preparation materials and registration for the LSAT (Law School Admission Test).

Significant Changes

• Use of Funds: Grant money can cover scholarships, LSAT preparation, program-related events, transportation, and staffing.
• Reporting: The Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers is required to submit annual reports by January 30, 2026, and January 30, 2027. These reports should detail the program's outcomes, revenues, expenses, and how state funding is used.

Relevant Terms

workforce development, Black Minnesota undergraduates, law school, legal careers, scholarships, mentoring, LSAT preparation, Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers.