The bill aims to enhance funding for English learner (EL) programming in Minnesota by amending existing statutes related to education finance. It introduces new provisions for calculating a school district's English learner revenue, which will now include a sum of three components: a fixed amount based on the average daily membership of eligible English learners, a new English learner cross subsidy aid, and an additional amount based on the district's English learner pupil units. The cross subsidy aid will gradually increase from 25% in fiscal year 2024 to 100% in fiscal year 2027 and beyond, ensuring that districts receive more support over time.

Additionally, the bill modifies the basic skills revenue calculation for school districts by incorporating the English learner revenue as part of the total funding formula. It also includes an appropriation of funds from the general fund to the Department of Education specifically for additional English learner general education aid in fiscal years 2024 and 2025. These changes are designed to provide more comprehensive financial support for districts serving English learners, thereby improving educational outcomes for these students.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 124D.65, 126C.10