The bill establishes a new program for expanded-capacity grants and forgivable loans aimed at enhancing dental assisting and hygiene education programs in Minnesota. Under the new section [144.1914], the commissioner of health is tasked with making these financial resources available to accredited higher education programs in dental assisting and hygiene, as well as those that have applied for accreditation. Eligible projects for funding include improvements to clinic infrastructure, classroom enhancements, student scholarships, faculty salary increases, and the acquisition of necessary equipment and resources.

Additionally, the bill appropriates $20 million from the general fund for fiscal year 2026 to support these initiatives, with the funds available until June 30, 2028. The commissioner will prioritize applications from programs that demonstrate the highest potential for increasing student enrollment capacity, and will not favor one type of program over the other. Institutions with both dental hygiene and assisting programs may submit a joint application for funding.