Local news talent pipeline program grant funding provided, and money appropriated.

A bill for an act

relating to workforce development; appropriating money for a grant for a local

news talent pipeline program.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

Section 1.
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APPROPRIATION; LOCAL NEWS TALENT PIPELINE PROGRAM.
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$500,000 in fiscal year 2027 is appropriated from the workforce development fund to

the commissioner of employment and economic development for a grant to the Minnesota

News Media Institute for a local news talent pipeline program, a statewide initiative to

encourage Minnesotans to seek careers in journalism and local news operations and

strengthen the capacity of Minnesota news outlets. Grant money must be used by the

recipients to provide paid internships with Minnesota newspapers, television and radio

broadcasters, and digital news platforms for individuals to gain experience in reporting,

editing, media design, and other operational functions. To the extent practicable, Minnesota

News Media Institute should seek a balanced geographic distribution of grants and allocation

of grants across different news mediums. Minnesota News Media Institute must consult

with local Minnesota-based news organization associations, including the Minnesota

Broadcasters Association and Minnesota Newspaper Association, on the administration of

the grant program. Minnesota News Media Institute may retain up to five percent of funding

to cover administrative expenses of operating the grant program. This is a onetime

appropriation.

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