Help Protect Children in Minnesota

Children who experience abuse deserve to be protected and heard in a safe and developmentally appropriate setting.

There is legislation moving through the Capitol (HF 2136/SF 2551) that addresses funding for forensic interview training so professionals across Minnesota are equipped with the skills needed to conduct structured, child-centered interviews that strengthen investigations and support coordinated responses.

But lawmakers need to understand the value of forensic interview training and why it matters for children across Minnesota.

Dear [Lawmaker],

As a Minnesota legislator, you play a critical role in protecting children who have experienced abuse. We are asking for your leadership to strengthen the systems that ensure children are heard safely and that perpetrators are held accountable.

Currently moving through the Capitol is legislation (HF 2136/SF 2551) that strengthens forensic interview training across our state. A trained forensic interview allows a child to share their story once in a safe, developmentally appropriate setting with a specially trained professional. This evidence-based approach reduces additional trauma and strengthens the integrity of investigations.

When a child experiences abuse, the investigation often begins with questions. If those questions are not asked in the right way, a child may be required to repeat their story multiple times to different adults. Repetition can increase stress, affect memory, and delay access to support. It can also weaken cases that depend on accurate, reliable information. Strengthening and expanding this training for more professionals, especially law enforcement, helps protect children while supporting accurate, coordinated responses.

Please prioritize child healing in Minnesota.

Sincerely,
______

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