The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2023 Supplement, section 121A.041, subdivision 2, to modify the prohibition on American Indian mascots in public schools. Starting September 1, 2025, public schools are prohibited from using names, symbols, or images that depict or refer to American Indian tribes, individuals, customs, or traditions as mascots, unless they obtain an exemption. However, this prohibition does not apply to public schools located within the reservation of a federally recognized Tribal Nation in Minnesota, where at least 95 percent of students meet the state definition of American Indian student.

Additionally, the bill establishes a process for public schools to apply for funding to replace prohibited mascots, symbols, or images on various school property. The commissioner of education is tasked with approving applications for reimbursement of expenses incurred for compliance with the prohibition, and schools are not required to comply until their requests are approved. The bill also includes an appropriation from the general fund to the Department of Education for mascot replacement assistance, which is a one-time funding available until July 1, 2026. The effective date of the new provisions is the day following final enactment.