Commissioner of veterans affairs funding provided for a veteran mentorship program for Black youth, and money appropriated.

HF 1511 appropriates $5 million from the state general fund for a veteran mentorship program targeting Black youth in Minnesota. The bill directs the Commissioner of Veterans Affairs to fund an organization that will develop and run the program, where veterans mentor Black youth to prevent violence and explore military careers. The funds are allocated specifically: $1.5 million for veteran mentor salaries, $2 million for community outreach, $1 million for youth engagement, and $500,000 for program administration. This is a one-time appropriation for fiscal year 2026, directly affecting Black youth in Minnesota through mentorship and career exploration opportunities.