H.F. No. 51 Summary

• Commissioner of health shall establish the Emmett Louis Till Victims Recovery Program to address health and wellness needs of victims who experienced trauma from government-sponsored activities and their families and heirs.

• Program shall award competitive grants to community-based organizations for services including health and wellness services, remembrance and legacy preservation activities, cultural awareness services, spiritual and faith-based support, and community healing resources.

• Commissioner must prioritize grant awards to community-based organizations experienced in providing support to victims and families who experienced trauma from government-sponsored activities.

• Commissioner must submit status reports by January 15, 2023, and January 15, 2024, to legislative health care committees detailing grant program activities, outcomes, and assessment of continued service needs.

• $500,000 is appropriated from the general fund in fiscal year 2024 to the commissioner of health for the program as a one-time appropriation available until June 30, 2025.