Purpose

This bill provides funding support specifically for the Somali Museum of Minnesota. It aims to enhance the museum’s outreach, education, and community engagement related to Somali heritage and culture in Minnesota, by increasing access and programming.

Main Provisions

• Appropriates $1,000,000 in fiscal year 2026 and $1,000,000 in fiscal year 2027 from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.
• Allocation process: funds are to be distributed as a grant to the Somali Museum of Minnesota through the commissioner of administration.
• Use of funds: to support heritage arts and cultural vitality programs, including classes, exhibits, and presentations.
• Outreach focus: activities designed to provide outreach about the Somali community and Somali heritage in Minnesota.
• Operational impact: intended to increase the museum’s hours of operation.
• Access and affordability: funds to support free and reduced-fee programming for schools and community events.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

• Establishes a new, multi-year appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund specifically designated for the Somali Museum of Minnesota.
• Creates state support for expanded programming and accessibility (increased hours, free/reduced-fee options) to promote Somali heritage in Minnesota.
• No changes described to other existing programs or statutes beyond authorizing this grant and funding.

Relevant Terms - Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund - Commissioner of Administration - Somali Museum of Minnesota - grant - heritage arts and cultural vitality programs - classes - exhibits - presentations - outreach - Somali community - Minnesota - hours of operation - free programming - reduced-fee programming - schools - community events - fiscal year 2026 - fiscal year 2027 - appropriation