Purpose of the Bill

The bill aims to establish the Sankofa Empowerment Center, focusing on providing support to Black youth who have been involved in the juvenile justice system or child welfare services.

Main Provisions

• The bill allocates $2,000,000 from Minnesota’s general fund to Rebound Inc., a nonprofit that serves young people with a history of justice involvement.
• The funds will be used for various needs, including acquiring property, constructing facilities, hiring staff, developing programs, and covering operational costs.
• The Empowerment Center will offer culturally responsive services tailored specifically to the Black youth demographic.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• This bill provides a one-time appropriation specifically intended to help justice-involved Black youth, a demographic not explicitly highlighted in previous allocations.
• It overrides Minnesota’s standard administrative cost regulations, allowing the entire grant sum to be directed toward the center without deductions for administrative expenses.

Reporting Requirements

• Rebound Inc. is required to submit a comprehensive report by January 15, 2027. This report must outline how the funds were used, quantify the number of participants served, assess program outcomes, highlight partnerships, and make recommendations for future funding or expansion.

Relevant Terms

Sankofa Empowerment Center, Rebound Inc., justice-involved youth, culturally responsive services, Black youth, juvenile justice system, child welfare, appropriation, general fund, Minnesota Legislature.