MN SF2197

Establishes a driver's education financial assistance pilot program in the Department of Public Safety providing grants to school districts, local governments, tribes, and nonprofits to help youth ages 15-24 access driver's education courses and obtain driver's licenses

Eligible youth include those experiencing homelessness, foster care youth, recipients of MFIP assistance, juvenile diversion participants, out-of-school/out-of-work youth in workforce programs, and those demonstrating financial hardship

Individual awards capped at $2,000 per eligible youth, with up to $700 usable for paying previous fines or fees that prevent obtaining a license; funds cover driver's education courses, permit/license fees, road test vehicle use, and related materials

Creates a work group led by the commissioners of education, public safety, and employment and economic development to study driver education availability, geographic access barriers, and recommend permanent funding mechanisms, with a report due February 1, 2026

Appropriates $3,850,000 in fiscal year 2026 as a one-time general fund appropriation; pilot program expires June 30, 2028