Article 1 – Appropriations

Article 2 – Policy

Sections 1 to 3 amend the chapter of law establishing state observances.

Section 1 (10.576) designates the third Friday in September of each year the Prisoners of War (POW) and Missing in Action (MIA) Recognition Day, and requires the Governor to issue a proclamation honoring this observance each year.

Section 2 (10.578) establishes Veterans Suicide Awareness Day on the first Saturday in October, beginning in 2020, and requires the Governor to issue a proclamation honoring this observance each year.

Section 3 (10.597) designates June 30 as American Allies Day for the purpose of honoring foreign-born persons who fought in conflicts around the world on behalf of and alongside the United States armed forces.  Each year the governor shall issue a proclamation honoring this observance.  Schools are encouraged to offer instruction on the role of America’s allies during military conflicts.  This section is effective the day following final enactment.

Section 4 (196.05, subd. 1) makes a technical correction; updates language and adds a cross-reference to Minnesota Statutes, chapter 198.

Section 5 (Laws 2016, chapter 189, article 13, section 64) provides that the Medal of Honor Memorial account created in the special revenue fund consist of money transferred by law to the account and any other money donated, gifted or granted.  Requires money in the account to be annually appropriated to the Commissioner of Administration for the predesign, design, construction, and ongoing maintenance.  Subdivision 3, which specified restrictions on the funds, is stricken.

Section 6 requires the Commissioner of Administration to place a memorial plaque in the court of honor on the Capitol grounds to recognize the service of the Minnesota veterans who served in the United States Armed Forces during WWI both at home and abroad. The plaque will replace the current plaque honoring veterans who served abroad during WWI, at no cost to the state. The Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board shall solicit design submissions from the public and select a design, which must be approved by the Commissioner of Veterans Affairs. This section is effective the day following final enactment.