This bill amends Minnesota Statutes to modify provisions related to resident tuition and state student aid for higher education. Specifically, it revises section 135A.043 to clarify eligibility for resident tuition rates. The bill removes the previous requirement for students without lawful immigration status to provide documentation of compliance with selective service registration and proof of an application for lawful immigration status. Instead, it establishes that a student who has attended high school in Minnesota for three or more years and graduated or obtained an equivalent degree is eligible for resident tuition, regardless of their immigration status.

Additionally, the bill amends section 136A.101, subdivision 8, to redefine "resident student" by including language that specifies students without legal authorization to work in the U.S. as defined by federal law. This change aligns with the new provisions in section 135A.043, ensuring that students who meet the residency and educational criteria can qualify for resident tuition rates. The bill also requests the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota to adopt a policy to implement these changes.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 135A.043, 136A.101