MN HF3066

Establishes an adaptive swimming lessons and water safety education program administered by the Commissioner of Health in collaboration with the city of St. Paul and autism advocacy organizations

Eligible children must be ages 3-20, diagnosed with a developmental delay, and meet income requirements through enrollment in programs such as Medical Assistance, MinnesotaCare, free/reduced lunch, SNAP, or energy assistance

Program must serve at least 100 children per year, offering 12 weeks of swimming instruction per child along with swim kits and culturally appropriate water safety education for parents

Instructors must hold level 1 or higher swim certification, American Red Cross water safety instructor certification, and certification in teaching neurodivergent children

Appropriates $500,000 in fiscal year 2026 and $500,000 in fiscal year 2027 from the general fund for lessons, instructor stipends, facility rental, parent education, and a grant to Maangaar Voices for community outreach