Commissioner of veterans affairs appropriation for a veteran mentorship program for Black youth

SF 1616 allocates $5 million from the general fund for a veteran mentorship program targeting Black youth in Minnesota. The bill requires the Commissioner of Veterans Affairs to fund an organization that will employ veterans to mentor Black youth, aiming to prevent youth violence and help participants explore military careers. The funding is specifically broken down: $1.5 million for veteran mentor salaries, $2 million for community outreach and education, $1 million for youth engagement activities, and $500,000 for program administration. This is a one-time appropriation for fiscal year 2026, directly affecting Black youth through structured mentorship and career exploration opportunities.