Bill > HF2114

This bill establishes a state grant program to support the training and job placement of real-time stenographic writers, such as court reporters and closed captioners, in Minnesota. Under the program, the commissioner of the Office of Higher Education will award two $300,000 grants annually, starting in the 2025-2026 academic year, with one grant designated for an institution in the seven-county metropolitan area and the other for an institution outside this region. Priority will be given to institutions that can most effectively increase training capacity, demonstrate strong collaborative partnerships, or propose innovative training approaches. Grant recipients can use funds for individual student grants or scholarships, but recipients must commit to working as a real-time stenographic writer for six months for each semester of support. The bill requires institutions to submit annual reports detailing the effectiveness of their training efforts and identifying best practices for recruiting and retaining stenographic writers. A total of $3,150,000 is appropriated for the program from the general fund, with funds available through June 30, 2029, specifically earmarked for educational training and not for digital recording or AI transcription. The commissioner may use up to 5% of the appropriation for administrative costs.

Education

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF2114&ssn=0&y=2025