Gaps in identifying and investigating hate incidents and hate crimes targeting persons of Asian and Asian Indian descent addressed; Office of Ombudsperson for Anti-Asian, Anti-Asian Indian, and Anti-Religious Hate Prevention established; and money appropriated.

This bill creates a new Office of the Ombudsperson for Anti-Asian, Anti-Asian Indian, and Anti-Religious Hate Prevention in Minnesota to address gaps in identifying and investigating hate incidents and crimes targeting Asian and Asian Indian individuals. The ombudsperson will receive complaints, help people navigate reporting processes, identify systemic issues, and coordinate with law enforcement and community organizations to improve response efforts. The office will also develop bias-aware training for state agencies, law enforcement, and schools, and maintain a statewide system for collecting detailed hate incident data. The position is appointed by the Legislative Coordinating Commission and operates independently while collaborating with the Council of Asian-Pacific Minnesotans.