Senator Zach Duckworth (R-Lakeville) presented legislation today that establishes juvenile court guardianship for at-risk youth in Minnesota. The legislation ensures that at-risk juveniles, many of whom have been victims of trafficking, have access to guidance, financial assistance, emotional support, and other resources. This important bill was heard on the Senate Floor and passed on a unanimous vote with broad bipartisan support.  

Included language aligns federal law and Minnesota law for certain at-risk juveniles that have been victims of abuse, neglect, abandonment, or have been brought into this country against their will for purposes of sex and/or labor trafficking. When dealing with these cases, federal law recognizes those 21 and under as juveniles, where Minnesota has previously only recognized those 18 and under. This assures that any at-risk youth, that would otherwise qualify for protections, are not left out due to a technicality in state law. 

“Every so often we get to work on a bill that’s extra meaningful – this is that bill for me because it helps our most vulnerable. These kids have experienced unfathomable hardship and are in need of proper care to ensure their well-being and safety. It’s tragic that any child experiencing such circumstances hasn’t qualified for these protections in the past. This bill will solve that problem in Minnesota and ensure these children get taken care of so that they can go on to lead happy lives and flourish in our communities,” said Duckworth.

The bill now awaits a vote in the House before heading to the Governor’s desk for a final signature.