Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota Senate Bill SF4377

Introduced
2/29/24  

Caption

Mental health services and outdoor activities for law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical services personnel appropriation

Impact

If enacted, SF4377 would enhance existing public safety initiatives by specifically addressing the mental health challenges faced by first responders. This is crucial given the increasing awareness of mental health issues in high-risk professions. The bill illustrates a proactive approach by the state in funding initiatives that can help prevent burnout, PTSD, and other mental health related problems that are prevalent among these groups. The funding is positioned as a crucial step towards improving overall job performance and personal well-being among law enforcement and emergency personnel.

Summary

SF4377 focuses on the mental health support and outdoor activities for law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical service personnel. It proposes the appropriation of $250,000 for fiscal years 2024 and 2025 to provide grants to a nonprofit organization, Hometown Hero Outdoors. This funding aims to facilitate outdoor recreational endeavors and mental health services aimed at promoting positive mental health and enhancing quality of life for individuals in these first responder roles. The bill underscores the significance of mental well-being in high-stress occupations and seeks to establish a healthier work-life balance through community engagement and outdoor activities.

Contention

While the bill is primarily focused on increasing support for mental health services, potential points of contention may arise regarding funding allocation, effectiveness of the proposed programs, and the total amount appropriated. Discussions may include differing opinions on whether this funding is sufficient to address the mental health needs of first responders or whether there should be more comprehensive programs in place. Stakeholders are likely to engage in debates about the effectiveness of nonprofit organizations in managing these grants and the selection process for which programs to support.

Companion Bills

MN HF3569

Similar To Mental health services outdoor activities for law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical services personnel funding provided; and money appropriated.

Previously Filed As

MN SF2421

Mental health services and outdoor activities for law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical services personnel appropriation

MN SF679

Mental health services and outdoor activities for law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency services personnel

MN HF3569

Mental health services outdoor activities for law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical services personnel funding provided; and money appropriated.

MN HF491

Law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical services personnel provided funding for mental health services and outdoor activities, and money appropriated.

MN SF674

Mental health services and outdoor activities for currently serving military personnel and veterans appropriation

MN SF3275

Mental health services and outdoor activities appropriation for currently serving military personnel and veterans

MN HF492

Currently serving military personnel and veterans provided funding for mental health services and outdoor activities, and money appropriated.

MN HF3008

Mental health services and outdoor activities for currently serving military personnel and veterans funding provided, and money appropriated.

MN HB4390

Establishing Medal of Valor for emergency medical service personnel, firefighters, and law-enforcement officers

MN SF4378

Hometown Hero Outdoors commissioner of veterans affairs grant appropriation

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.