Soft Body Armor Reimbursement (Public Safety Vest Reimbursement)

Minnesota Department of Public Safety

Pays for armorMN

Law enforcementFireEMS

What it pays for

Reimburses up to one half of the purchase price of vests. Eligible items: ballistic panels meeting the current NIJ standard (0101.06) or on the NIJ Compliant Products List at purchase, soft or hard trauma plates and up to two department-authorized carriers. Not eligible: tactical ballistic items, unauthorized carriers, alterations, shipping and sales tax. Officer must have had no compliant panels or panels at least five years old. Maximum reimbursement adjusts each October 1 by CPI ($1,050.64 for purchases on or after October 1, 2025).

The rules

Who can apply: Public safety officers under Minn. Stat. 299A.38: peace officers, firefighters (volunteer, paid on-call, part-time or career) and qualified EMS providers at licensed ambulance services; individuals or agencies may apply.
Match or cost share: Up to 50 percent reimbursement.
When: Application period July 1 to June 30 for vests bought within the previous 365 days; funds limited, with a waiting list.

Sources

MN DPS program page and 2025 program guidelines, read Oct 3, 2026
Confirmed by Minnesota Revisor of Statutes (299A.38)

This is a reference compiled from public program documents, not legal or grant advice. The program’s own solicitation and guidance are the record.