Bill > HF4364

This bill establishes the Council on Central and Eastern European Affairs to represent Minnesotans from Central and Eastern Europe, many of whom may have arrived as refugees or humanitarian parolees due to conflict or political instability and face challenges accessing government services. The council will consist of 15 voting members: 11 public members appointed by the governor, representing diverse ethnic backgrounds from countries like Croatia, Poland, and Ukraine, with a focus on demographic representation and including at least five women, and four legislative members appointed by House and Senate leadership. Members will serve terms, with specific rules for removal and limitations on service length, and must complete orientation training. The council will elect officers, form an executive committee, and receive administrative and legal support from the state. An executive director, appointed by the Legislative Coordinating Commission (LCC) in consultation with the council, will oversee staff and manage the council's operations and budget. The council's duties include advising the governor and legislature on issues affecting these communities, recommending policy changes, acting as a liaison, conducting studies, and collaborating with other ethnic councils. The council is required to submit annual reports on its achievements and objectives, and a biennial budget request to the LCC. Additionally, the bill appropriates $700,000 from the general fund for fiscal year 2027 to the council for its operations, staffing, and outreach, with a base appropriation of the same amount for fiscal year 2028.

Government Affairs

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2026/0/HF/4364/