Bill > SF513

This bill establishes an Office of Gun Violence Prevention within the Minnesota Department of Health, led by a director appointed by the health commissioner who will have expertise in gun violence issues. The office will have broad responsibilities including coordinating efforts to reduce gun violence, conducting research on causes and evidence-based responses, collecting data on gun-related incidents and deaths, creating public health campaigns, supporting victims, building partnerships with experts and stakeholders, and serving as a legislative resource on gun violence prevention. The office is required to collaborate with the Department of Public Safety, can apply for public and private grants, and must submit an annual report to legislative committees detailing its activities. The bill also includes an appropriation of unspecified amounts from the general fund in fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to support the office's implementation. The director will be able to hire staff as needed, and these employees will be members of the Minnesota State Retirement System. The ultimate goal is to take a public health approach to understanding and reducing gun violence in Minnesota.

Health and Social Services

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF0513&ssn=0&y=2025