MN HF2854

Establishes a new jobs training program administered by the Department of Employment and Economic Development to provide workforce education and training for employers in primary sector businesses locating to or expanding in Minnesota outside the metropolitan area.

Creates a "new jobs credit from withholding" that allows employers to receive credits against income tax withholding payments, with credits based on wages paid to new employees and used to repay grants for program costs.

Requires participating employers to meet eligibility criteria including increasing base employment by 10 percent or 2 employees (whichever is greater), or hiring a minimum of 5 new employees, and ensures all employees earn at least $10 per hour plus benefits.

Appropriates $10,000,000 annually from the general fund beginning after June 30, 2012, with an annual credit limit of $10,000,000; allows communities to also fund programs from their own available funds.

Program expires June 30, 2017, with a requirement that the commissioner report to the governor and legislature by February 1, 2015, on program effectiveness including loans issued, individuals trained, and employment outcomes.