SF3438 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))

Targeted grant program establishment to address outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases

Related bill: HF3240

AI Generated Summary

Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to establish a grant program aimed at reducing outbreaks of diseases that can be prevented by vaccination. The bill focuses on providing support to areas with low vaccination rates to help prevent diseases such as measles.

Main Provisions

  • Establishment of Grant Program: The bill mandates the creation of a two-year targeted grant program by the commissioner of health. This program is designed to fund initiatives that reduce the risk of outbreaks in communities with low vaccination uptake.

  • Eligible Recipients: Grants can be awarded to community health boards and community-based nonprofit organizations that are experienced in working with low-vaccination areas or populations.

  • Application Process: Entities wishing to apply for these grants must submit an application detailing their proposed activities, target geographic area or population, requested funding amount, and a budget plan.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

  • This bill introduces a new targeted grant program which did not previously exist. It is intended to specifically address vaccine-preventable disease outbreaks in areas with historically low vaccination rates.

Allowable Uses of Grant Funds

  • Funds are to be used for educational activities to raise vaccine awareness and combat misinformation.
  • Activities must be culturally appropriate for the communities being served.
  • Efforts should assist individuals in accessing vaccines.

Development of Educational Materials

  • The commissioner of health is responsible for creating culturally and linguistically appropriate educational materials on vaccines. These materials should highlight the benefits and safety of vaccines, detail recommended vaccination schedules, and provide information on where to obtain vaccines, including programs offering free or reduced-cost vaccinations.

Appropriations

  • The bill provides a one-time appropriation from the general fund for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to support this grant program.

Relevant Terms

  • Vaccine-preventable diseases
  • Vaccination rates
  • Measles
  • Grant program
  • Community health boards
  • Nonprofit organizations
  • Vaccine misinformation
  • Cultural appropriateness
  • Educational materials
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Bill text versions

Actions

DateChamberWhereTypeNameCommittee Name
April 24, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
April 24, 2025SenateFloorActionIntroduction and first reading
April 24, 2025SenateFloorActionReferred toHealth and Human Services

Citations

 
[
  {
    "analysis": {
      "added": [
        "A new grant program for vaccination-related activities."
      ],
      "removed": [],
      "summary": "Defines community health boards as an eligible entity for the grant program to prevent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases.",
      "modified": []
    },
    "citation": "145A.02",
    "subdivision": "subdivision 5"
  }
]