Minnesota proposes sunsetting STS program amid declining participation and rising costs

The Minnesota House Public Safety Finance and Policy Committee convened on March 28, 2025, to discuss several significant proposals impacting the state's correctional system and public safety funding. A key focus of the meeting was the proposed sunsetting of state funding for the Sentencing to Service (STS) program, which allows non-violent offenders to work in the community while incarcerated. Participation in the program has declined sharply, with the number of individuals completing STS dropping from approximately 5,600 in 2019 to around 2,800 today. The state currently covers 25% of the program's costs, but officials argue that continuing it is no longer a prudent use of resources, as the cost per client has risen significantly. If the program is discontinued, the state anticipates annual savings of about $1.8 million.

In addition to the STS program, the committee reviewed a proposal to extend a mental health unit pilot program that facilitates the transfer of inmates with serious mental health issues to a specialized treatment facility. This extension aims to improve access to necessary care for individuals who may not receive adequate support in smaller jails. The proposal also seeks to modify the consent process for transfers, allowing licensed mental health professionals to refer individuals, thereby increasing access to these critical services.

Another important discussion centered on the funding structure for the Interstate Compact Unit, which manages supervision transfers for offenders across state lines. The proposed amendment aims to distribute costs more equitably among all Minnesota counties, rather than relying solely on those served by the Department of Corrections (DOC).

The committee also addressed the distribution of funds allocated to tribal nations for community supervision services. The current requirement for tribal nations to enter into joint powers agreements with the DOC is seen as a barrier, and the proposed changes would streamline this process, making it easier for tribes to access necessary funding.

Other budget-neutral proposals included technical corrections to streamline community supervision funding and updates to existing rules governing the DOC's operations. The committee emphasized the importance of these proposals in ensuring accountability and improving outcomes for individuals under state supervision.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members were encouraged to consider the implications of these proposals on public safety and the rehabilitation of offenders, highlighting the ongoing need for effective and efficient management of Minnesota's correctional resources. The discussions set the stage for future legislative actions that could reshape the state's approach to public safety and correctional services.