Senate file 2658 seeks $500K for Saint Paul's RightTrack Youth Internship Program

The Minnesota Senate Committee on Jobs and Economic Development convened on March 26, 2025, to discuss key legislative proposals aimed at enhancing youth employment opportunities in the state. A significant focus of the meeting was Senate File 2658, which seeks to allocate $250,000 in fiscal years 2026 and 2027 from the Workforce Settlement Fund to support the RightTrack Youth Internship Program in Saint Paul.

Senator Hur introduced the bill, emphasizing its role in addressing labor force demographics and educational disparities by connecting young people aged 14 to 21 with internship opportunities. The RightTrack program, which has been operational for over 20 years, aims to provide high-quality internship experiences that prepare youth for personal and professional success while also supporting local employers in developing a diverse talent pool.

During the meeting, two testifiers presented their support for the bill. Nardos Tysfaladet, program supervisor for RightTrack, highlighted the program's success in generating over 2,300 applications for internships in February 2025 alone, a significant increase from the previous year. Tysfaladet noted that the funding would allow for an additional 100 summer internship experiences and job coaching support, directly benefiting the local community and economy.

Upshur Ali, a former participant in the RightTrack program, shared his personal journey, illustrating the transformative impact of the program on his life. Ali described how his internships provided him with valuable skills and a network of mentors, ultimately leading him to pursue a degree in political science and take on leadership roles in his community. He urged the committee to support the bill to expand access to similar opportunities for more young people.

The committee laid Senate File 2679 on the table for possible inclusion in future discussions, indicating ongoing deliberations on youth employment initiatives. The meeting underscored the importance of investing in programs that foster youth development and address workforce challenges in Minnesota.