MN HF3842

Creates a state Council on East African Minnesotans consisting of 13 members: six appointed by the governor and seven appointed by the legislature, with members broadly representative of the East African community.

Defines "East African" to include the eastern region of Africa comprising Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Somalia.

Council duties include advising the governor and legislature on issues facing East African people, recommending access to benefits and services, reviewing affirmative action programs, serving as a referral agency for state programs, and conducting studies on education, employment, health, housing, and related issues.

Requires state departments and agencies seeking federal funds with primary effect on East African Minnesotans to submit applications to the council for review and recommendation at least 30 days before federal agency submission.

Establishes an ombudsperson for East African Minnesotans operating independently but in collaboration with other community councils, and appropriates funding from a special fund authorized by Minnesota Statutes section 256.01.