Our 2026 Policy Priorities

A dedicated prenatal and infant cash program designed to support Minnesota's babies and their new parents.

Minnesota Newborn Benefit

Homeless Youth Stipend

This bill, set to be introduced in 2027, will expand Youthprise’s Homeless Youth Stipend Pilot Program, focusing on closing housing gaps for youth and young adults—particularly those transitioning from foster care and experiencing housing instability.

Minnesota Newborn
Benefit Act

The Problem

As the cost of living rises, wages stagnate, and jobs are eliminated across sectors, Minnesotan families are struggling to afford their lives. Nowhere is that crunch felt more acutely than for Minnesotans who are welcoming a new life to their family. But the high costs of infant care– from baby formula to childcare–jeopardizes the health of newborns and the financial security of their families. This financial strain contributes to the downward trend in birth rates in communities across the state, that could pose a threat to Minnesota’s long term economic vitality.

The Minnesota Newborn Benefit Act seeks to address this widespread issue by providing families with essential support and resources needed to care for their new child.

Our Policy Solution

The MNBA would provide direct, guaranteed cash benefits to Minnesota residents who are biological parents, legal guardians, or adoptive parents of a child born or placed after January 1, 2028. Download our bill one-pager.

Protection of Existing Aid

Payments are not considered income or assets when determining eligibility for other state assistance programs, such as food & housing support or child care assistance.

Works with Paid Leave Act

Authorizes administration through the Minnesota Paid Leave law. Benefits provide support during and after bonding leave.

Broad Inclusion

Eligibility extends to biological births, adoptions, and foster placements for children under one year of age.

A one-time payment of $1,500 during the third trimester to help families prepare for their child's arrival.

Prenatal Support

Monthly Newborn Benefit for 24 months

Universal Eligibility

A recurring payment of $750 per month for the first 24 consecutive months of the child's life.

Benefits are not subject to income or asset tests, nor are they conditioned on employment status.