The Minnesota Senate Floor Session on May 18, 2025, focused on a comprehensive public safety bill aimed at reducing recidivism and enhancing rehabilitation efforts. The legislation seeks to address public safety through various funding allocations and policy changes.

Key highlights of the bill include a total of $14 million designated for crime victim services and the Philando Castile training fund. Specifically, the Philando Castile training fund will receive nearly $9.9 million, while crime victim services will be allocated approximately $7.2 million from the general fund, with additional funding expected through fines and fees.

The bill also includes provisions for training grants for prosecutors and law enforcement, with $200,000 and $250,000 allocated respectively. Furthermore, $14 million from the E911 special revenue fund is earmarked for critical emergency radio system infrastructure.

Despite these allocations, the budget for the courts remains tight, with only a 0.9% increase for judicial staff compensation and no increase for judges in the first two years of the biennium. However, a rate increase for forensic examiners was approved, raising their hourly rate from $136 to $165.

Policy changes within the bill include an expansion of peace officer death benefits and the establishment of a task force to review mandatory minimum sentences. Additionally, law enforcement agencies will be mandated to report and trace confiscated firearms using the eTrace system, with new regulations on the use of mobile tracking devices.

Overall, the bill reflects a bipartisan effort to enhance public safety while addressing the needs of crime victims and law enforcement. The Senate encourages support for this targeted approach to public safety and justice reform.