U.S. Senate Committee on Rules and Administration

04/12/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/12/2024 13:48

Klobuchar, Smith Secure Funding for Projects in Hennepin County

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Tina Smith (D-MN) announced that they secured federal funding in the Fiscal Year 2024 federal budget for the Hennepin County Emergency Shelter System and Sheriff's Forensic Science Lab. This funding will be used to purchase two light comparison microscopes and one 3D virtual comparison microscope for the laboratory Firearm Section. Klobuchar and Smith requested the funding along with U.S. Representative Dean Phillips (D-MN).

"Ensuring Hennepin County has access to the equipment and resources they need to keep Minnesotans safe is a top priority," said Klobuchar. "We secured these federal grants so Hennepin County can purchase much-needed tools for the Sheriff's forensic lab and make important upgrades to emergency shelters."

"Improving public safety infrastructure is critical to ensuring the safety of our communities," said Smith. "This new Emergency Shelter System and Forensic Science Lab will streamline and improve processes in Hennepin County, directly benefiting constituents."

Klobuchar and Smith have successfully secured:

  • $750,000 for the Hennepin County Emergency Shelter System; and
  • $425,000 for the Hennepin County Sheriff's Forensic Science Lab.

Hennepin County will use the $750,000 to build a new emergency shelter that will better serve guests in a safer sleeping layout. The Sheriff's Office will use the $450,000 to purchase two light comparison microscopes and one 3D virtual comparison microscope for the laboratory Firearm Section.

Klobuchar and Smith have been actively involved in securing this federal funding for projects benefiting communities across the state through a process called "Congressionally Directed Spending" (CDS). During the CDS process, Klobuchar and Smith have considered project proposals and advocated for funding in close coordination with leaders from across the state.

Projects are expected to receive funding over the next several months.

###