This bill mandates that school districts and charter schools in Minnesota implement climate justice instruction as part of their educational programs. It introduces a new section, [120B.25], which defines "climate justice" and requires the commissioner of education, in collaboration with the Pollution Control Agency and other experts, to develop a model program for climate justice education. This program must be scientifically accurate, inclusive, and accessible, covering topics such as the human impact on climate change, its disproportionate effects on marginalized communities, and the importance of community-led solutions. Schools are required to start implementing this program by the 2025-2026 school year and must report their progress to the commissioner of education.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that the commissioner must submit a report by January 31, 2026, detailing the implementation of the climate justice education program, including the identification of model programs and the support provided to schools. The bill also ensures that the instruction aligns with existing parental curriculum review requirements. The effective date for the climate justice education section is the day following final enactment, while the reporting requirement takes effect on July 1, 2023.