This bill establishes the Cultural and Ethnic Communities Leadership Council.
Section 1 (256.999, subdivision 1) establishes the council for the Department of Human Services. The purpose of the council is to advise the commissioner on reducing disparities that affect racial and ethnic groups.
Subdivision 2 provides the membership of the council, which consists of no fewer than 15 and no more than 25 members, appointed by the commissioner in consultation with county, tribal, cultural, and ethnic communities; diverse program participants; and parent representatives. The membership term is either a one- or two-year term.
Subdivision 3 provides the duties of the commissioner, which include, but are not limited to, identifying human services rules and statutes affecting persons from racial, ethnic, cultural, linguistic, and tribal communities that may need to be revised based on recommendations of the council, submitting legislation to reduce disparities, increase access to programs, and promote better outcomes.
Subdivision 4 provides the duties of the council, which include, but are not limited to, identifying issues regarding disparities by engaging diverse populations, raising awareness about human services disparities to the legislature and the media, and providing training and outreach to facilitate access to culturally and linguistically appropriate, accessible, and cost-effective human services to prevent disparities.
Subdivision 5 provides the duties of the council members, which include, but are not limited to, attending and participating in meetings and collaborating on disparity reduction efforts.
Subdivision 6 provides that the council does not expire unless directed by the commissioner.
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