1. United States
2. Minn.
3. Letter

Guardian ad Litems are legally mandated to advocate for the best interests of children in cases involving abuse, neglect, and family court proceedings. Last year alone, GALs served approximately **12,000 children across 6,700 cases** —work that requires consistency, trust, and deep professional commitment. This work also requires significant **education and specialized training**. GALs typically hold a **bachelor’s degree or higher** and must complete extensive training in areas such as child development, mental health, chemical dependency, racial equity, court procedures, and state law. Many also receive specialized training in the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) and culturally responsive practice . Despite these qualifications and responsibilities, GALs are currently paid just **$23.12 per hour**. This wage does not reflect the complexity, expertise, or emotional weight of the role and has created a significant workforce crisis. We are seeing the impacts firsthand: * Low wages are the **primary reason employees leave the program** * Many Guardians cannot meet basic living expenses on their current pay * Colleagues are leaving for positions that pay significantly more, despite wanting to stay * The program experienced approximately a **25% turnover rate last year**, further destabilizing the workforce Survey data further underscores this reality: * **59% of GALs are very worried about paying their bills** * **63% work a second job to make ends meet** * **14% of GALs rely on public assistance, including food stamps (SNAP)** This is not sustainable for a workforce responsible for protecting Minnesota’s most vulnerable children. High turnover disrupts relationships, increases caseloads, and weakens the consistency children depend on during the most critical times in their lives. The requested **$9.1 million investment** will: * Improve wages so they reflect the responsibility and qualifications required * Stabilize the workforce and reduce turnover * Strengthen recruitment of qualified, culturally competent advocates * Ensure children have consistent, effective representation in court This is an investment in children—ensuring that those who have experienced abuse and neglect have a stable, trusted adult advocating for their best interests.