Legislative Session Updates (5/22)
When it comes to our work at the legislature, we have learned it’s not done until it is done! Advancing a bill at the Capitol can be an adventure, and this one is no different.
Our lead bill this legislative session was SF2597, a bill that would establish a special revenue fund for the Fostering Independence Grants (FIG). This program has already changed the lives of nearly 700 young people in Minnesota. FIG has provided Fosters an opportunity for an education, and an opportunity to create real stability in their lives. FIG is a true investment. It’s the biggest investment that we as a state have made in Fosters and their futures.
Because we were unable to bring our powerful testifiers this session, we instead lifted up stories from Fosters and Minnesotans to show why FIG is so special, and why it is needed in our state. Thank you to all of those who took the time to share your stories, and reach out to your legislators - it made all the difference!
Where Things Stand for FIG
We are happy to see how legislators have leaned in. They see how special FIG truly is. And although they will not be creating a special revenue fund, they instead are seeking to fully fund FIG at $8 million per year, which will meet the need in our state!
The good news is as it currently stands, FIG is fully funded in the Higher Education Policy & Finance Omnibus Bill (HF2431/SF2483) for future years. However, the Higher Education Policy & Finance Omnibus Bill did not get across the finish line before the session deadline. And so we wait for the Governor to call a special session.
The Impact
As we await next steps, it is important for folks to understand the impact if FIG is not fully funded. If not increased to $8 million per year, we anticipate 45% of current students will be waitlisted this upcoming school year. That is nearly 300 students who the state promised a better future, and 300 students who will lose everything they have worked so hard to overcome.
Of all the promises we have broken for Fosters as a state, this is one we can find a way to keep.
Because the nature of a special session and ongoing budget conversations are fluid right now, please check our socials for action alerts and future updates. We will share final results from this legislative session over our newsletter once we are able. If you have any questions, or would like to chat more, please contact Ariana Chamoun at ariana@fosteradvocates.org.
Thank you to all those who have already invested in Foster Advocates this year to make our work at the Capitol possible. Foster Advocates doesn't just advocate—we train Fosters to lead. It costs us $200,000 a year to support our policy team and equip young people with the tools to tell their stories and shape legislation. Their courage and leadership are moving hearts and changing laws—but they can’t do it alone. Make a gift today to support our advocacy work so we can ensure Minnesota meets its promise to FIG, and gets to work on the other bold ideas from the MN Promise report.
