Duluth Promise initiative funding provided, and money appropriated.

HF 849 appropriates $250,000 for fiscal year 2026 and $250,000 for fiscal year 2027 from the workforce development fund to Duluth Public Schools for the Duluth Promise initiative. The funding directly supports high school students in Duluth and St. Louis County by creating career pathways in high-demand fields like healthcare, manufacturing, and business finance. Key provisions include establishing early college credit opportunities, employer partnerships, job skills training, and wraparound support services to reduce employment barriers. The money must be used for program expenses such as hiring staff, facility rentals, and student support services, with funds available until June 30, 2027.