Minnesota Bill Allows First Responders to Access Free Mental Health Resources

Bipartisan legislation carves out exception to public gift ban for nonprofit mental health services.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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A new Minnesota bill would allow first responders to access free mental health and wellness services provided by nonprofit organizations without violating the state's public gift ban. The bill, sponsored by Republican Rep. Bidal Duran, a veteran and former law enforcement officer, aims to support first responder retention and public safety by ensuring these critical workers can seek the help they need.

Why it matters

First responders often face immense trauma and stress in the line of duty, but accessing mental health resources can be challenging due to restrictions on public officials accepting gifts. This bill seeks to address that barrier and make it easier for first responders to prioritize their own wellbeing, which in turn benefits the broader community they serve.

The details

The proposed legislation would create an exception to Minnesota's law prohibiting local officials, including public safety officers, from accepting gifts from anyone with a financial stake in their decisions. The exception would allow first responders to access 'services for mental health or wellness support, including but not limited to counseling, therapy, peer support, recreational activities, wellness days, or meals' provided at no cost by nonprofit organizations focused on supporting the health and wellbeing of public safety personnel.

  • The bill was introduced and received bipartisan support in the House Elections Finance and Government Operations Committee on February 24, 2026.

The players

Rep. Bidal Duran

A Republican state representative from Bemidji, Minnesota, who is a veteran and former law enforcement officer, and the sponsor of the bill.

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What they’re saying

“'First responders go through some of the worst things that we can think of.'”

— Rep. Bidal Duran, Bill Sponsor (austindailyherald.com)

“'We're just going to refine the law and make sure that we're able to help out and give our first responders options to seek help where they can.'”

— Rep. Bidal Duran, Bill Sponsor (austindailyherald.com)

What’s next

The bill now awaits a vote in the Minnesota legislature.

The takeaway

This bipartisan effort to support first responders' mental health demonstrates a recognition of the unique challenges they face and the importance of ensuring they have access to the resources they need to serve their communities effectively.