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HF 2247

Comunidades Organizando el Poder y la Acción Latina (COPAL) grant funding provided to equip a new center for community engagement, and money appropriated.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Samantha Sencer-Mura

The bill provides a state grant to COPAL to establish and operate a community engagement center, including funding for equipment and resources to boost Latino/a/x civic participati

Introduction and first reading, referred to Workforce, Labor, and Economic Development Finance and Policy
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Bill Summary · HF 2247

Summary of HF 2247 (2025-2026) – Minnesota

Overview

HF 2247, introduced in the 2025-2026 Minnesota legislative session, concerns the funding and provision of a grant to support the Comunidades Organizando el Poder y la Acción Latina (COPAL). The bill aims to equip a new center for community engagement and outlines appropriation provisions to support these efforts. The sponsor listed is Samantha Sencer-Mura (co-sponsor).

  • Jurisdiction: Minnesota
  • Title/Subject: COPAL grant funding provided to equip a new center for community engagement, and money appropriated
  • Action History: Introduced and referred on 2025-03-12 to the committees on Workforce, Labor, and Economic Development Finance and Policy
  • Primary Focus: Establishing or supporting a COPAL community engagement center through state funding

Primary Purpose and Intent

  • To provide state funding (a grant) to COPAL for the creation or operation of a new community engagement center.
  • To support activities that facilitate community organizing, empowerment, and Latino/a/x civic engagement through a dedicated center.

Key Provisions and Changes (as indicated by title and description)

Note: The available information emphasizes the grant funding and center equipment, with limited detail on full program design. The following provisions can be inferred or anticipated, pending bill text:

  • Grant Authority: Authorization of a state grant to COPAL to support the establishment and/or operation of a new community engagement center.
  • Equipment Funding: Funding designated for acquiring equipment and infrastructure necessary for the center’s operation (e.g., office space, technology, outreach materials).
  • Program Purpose: Support for activities that advance Latino/a/x community organizing, leadership development, civic participation, outreach, and service coordination.
  • Budget and Appropriation: Specific dollar amounts appropriated from state funds to COPAL for the center, including any earmarks or restricted-use provisions (if provided in full text).
  • Reporting and Accountability: Potential requirements for progress reporting, use of funds, and measurable outcomes (typical in grant programs).

Who or What Would Be Affected

  • COPAL (Community Organization): Receives a state grant and funding to establish and operate the community engagement center.
  • Latino/a/x Communities: Beneficiaries through enhanced access to organizing resources, civic engagement opportunities, and information services.
  • State Agencies/Departments: Likely involved in administering the grant, monitoring compliance, and reporting to the legislature (as standard for allocations of this type).
  • Local Partners: Potential collaboration with community organizations, schools, and local governments to maximize center impact.

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

  • Introduction and Referral: The bill was introduced and referred on March 12, 2025, to the Joint or relevant committees: Workforce, Labor, and Economic Development Finance and Policy (as per action history).
  • Next Steps: If advanced, the bill would move through committee hearings, potential amendments, and full chamber votes. Fiscal notes and impact statements may accompany subsequent actions.
  • Effective Date: Not specified in the provided information; standard practice would determine an effective date upon enactment or a specific date stated in the bill.

Potential Impact

  • Community Empowerment: By funding a COPAL center, the bill could enhance community organizing capacity, leadership development, and civic participation among Latino/a/x populations.
  • Economic and Workforce Linkages: If the center integrates workforce development services, it could support job seekers, employers, and local economic development efforts.
  • Visibility and Accessibility: A local center could improve access to resources, legal rights information, language-accessible services, and culturally responsive outreach.

If you can provide the full text or fiscal notes for HF 2247, I can refine this summary with specific dollar amounts, dates, reporting requirements, and milestone timelines.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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