MN SF52

Commissioner of public safety shall award grants to cities and counties to establish alternative public safety emergency response programs that dispatch trained professionals instead of peace officers for 911 calls and other situations.

Eligible alternative responders include mental health professionals for mental health crises and chemical dependency, health care professionals for overdoses and substance abuse, and social workers for homelessness situations; peace officers may still be called if necessary for safety.

Funds transferred by cities or counties from law enforcement services to qualified alternative public safety emergency responder programs qualify for matching grant funds.

Commissioner must submit biennial reports by January 15 of odd-numbered years detailing number and amount of grants, recipients, services funded, and assessment of results to criminal justice committees.

Appropriation from general fund for fiscal year ending June 30, 2021, with up to two percent of biennial appropriation available for department administrative costs.