MN SF2730

Establishes a new office within the Department of Human Rights to prioritize enforcement and oversight functions under the Human Rights Act.

Requires the new office to implement audit procedures for state agencies, local governments, school districts, corporations, and institutions for compliance with human rights, equal opportunity, fair housing, voting rights, and affirmative action laws.

Mandates affirmative action and human rights impact analysis on all executive orders and proposed legislation, and review of state contract procurement services for compliance with federal and state equal access laws.

Requires the commissioner to report annually to legislative committees, the governor, and the public on implementation efforts, beginning January 1, 2015.

Directs the commissioner to establish a study committee to examine implementation of the United Nations International Covenant to End All Forms of Racial Discrimination (CERD) and address women's rights and housing discrimination issues, with a report due to the legislature by January 1, 2014.

Appropriates unspecified amounts from the general fund for fiscal years 2015 and 2016 to support the new office and duties.