This bill establishes a grant program and a loan forgiveness program specifically for home care workers in Minnesota. Under the new section 136A.1277, the commissioner of the Office of Higher Education is required to create a grant program for students who are home care workers, with eligibility criteria including enrollment in a postsecondary program, a commitment to work a minimum number of hours, and satisfactory academic progress. The program will also include a reporting requirement to track the number of applicants and grants awarded. Additionally, section 136A.1786 introduces a loan forgiveness program for home care workers, providing financial assistance for repaying qualified education loans, with specific eligibility requirements and annual disbursement guidelines.

The bill includes appropriations for both the grant and loan forgiveness programs, with specified amounts to be allocated from the general fund for fiscal year 2026 and adjustments to the base for subsequent years. The commissioner is authorized to use a portion of these funds for program administration. Overall, the legislation aims to support the education and financial stability of home care workers, addressing a critical workforce need in the state.