Minnesota DOC seeks $9.1M to address critical budget shortfall for staffing and operations

The House Public Safety Finance and Policy Committee convened on March 28, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding the Minnesota Department of Corrections (DOC) and its budgetary needs. The meeting highlighted the current state of incarceration facilities, staffing challenges, and the agency's financial requests for the upcoming fiscal years.

The DOC reported that approximately 8,300 individuals are currently incarcerated across its facilities, which span a total of 7.5 million square feet. The agency oversees around 20,000 individuals under community supervision, with 95,000 individuals subject to such oversight statewide. The DOC operates 13 district supervision offices and manages various regulatory functions, including the licensing of local correctional facilities.

Key points of discussion included the significant investments and policy changes made in 2023, which have begun to reshape the corrections landscape in Minnesota. Notably, the DOC has made strides in addressing a critical staffing crisis, achieving a staffing level of 99% at the start of 2025, a notable improvement after years of challenges in recruitment and retention.

Despite these advancements, the DOC faces a budget shortfall and is requesting $9.1 million from the state's general fund to address this gap for fiscal year 2025. Additionally, the agency seeks approval to reallocate $10 million from existing appropriations to maintain current services and staffing levels. The request is driven by the need to sustain the newly achieved staffing levels and ensure the safety of both staff and incarcerated individuals.

The DOC also presented a broader budget request for future fiscal years, seeking $43.3 million for FY 2026 and $66.9 million for FY 2027. This funding is essential to support ongoing operational needs, including staffing costs and benefits, as the agency continues to stabilize its workforce.

In conclusion, the committee's discussions underscored the DOC's ongoing efforts to improve staffing and operational efficiency while addressing significant budgetary challenges. The outcomes of these discussions will be crucial in shaping the future of corrections in Minnesota, ensuring that the agency can fulfill its constitutional obligations and maintain public safety.