The proposed bill establishes a "Skills Path Program" under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 124D, aimed at creating clear pathways for high school students to transition into skilled work and trades through employment-based training. The program will include career-connected learning options, career and technical education dual credit programs, and opportunities for paid employment. Eligible institutions, such as public schools and vocational centers, can apply for designation as skills path programs, which must demonstrate collaboration with local partners and employers to develop career pathways in various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and information technology.

Additionally, the bill introduces a "Skills Path Grant Program," allowing the commissioner of education to award grants of up to $50,000 to secondary schools for implementing skills path programs that align educational opportunities with employment training. The grants can be used for marketing, coordination of learning activities, and covering necessary expenses for participants, but cannot be used to pay student wages. The bill also includes an appropriation of $500,000 for the administration of these grants starting in fiscal year 2028.