Although Minnesota frequently ranks as a top state in which to live and work, this is not true for every Minnesotan. Our systems have not led to equitable outcomes for our children, and today race, ZIP code, and income are too often determinants of opportunity. We must embrace opportunities to think differently and improve the effectiveness of services for children and families who need them most.
This is why the state of Minnesota is working on a transition to create a new Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). This new cabinet-level agency will be established in July 2024 and fully staffed by July 2025.
The 2023 legislature included the Governor’s proposal to establish the new agency and funding for implementation in the Health and Human Services Omnibus bill signed into law. Authorizing language can be found in 2023 Minnesota Session Law, Chapter 70 and a plain-language explanation of the statute can be found in the DCYF Statutory Explainer document. The statute appropriates funds for an Implementation Office, established on July 1, 2023, and housed at Minnesota Management and Budget (MMB). This office works in partnership with state agencies and through the Children’s Cabinet on planning and transition efforts to coordinate and plan for the creation of the new agency centered on our most precious resources: our children, youth, and families. As required in statute, the Implementation Office submitted a transition report to the Minnesota Legislature on March 1, 2024, detailing engagement and planning efforts.
You can receive updates on the transition by signing up for our monthly newsletter. Past updates are available below:
Department of Children, Youth and Families Implementation Information
