This bill aims to enhance education funding in Minnesota by increasing financial supports for school districts, including raising the general education basic formula allowance, special education cross subsidy aid, English learner cross subsidy aid, and safe schools revenue. It also links extended time revenue to the general education basic formula allowance and increases equalization aid for debt service levies, local optional revenue, and operating referendums. Notably, the bill allows school boards to renew voter-approved operating referendums multiple times and modifies the calculation of compensatory revenue eligibility based on direct certification and educational benefits applications.

Specific amendments include changes to equalized debt service levy calculations with new thresholds for fiscal years 2025, 2026, and 2027, setting the English learner cross subsidy aid percentage at 90% for fiscal year 2027 and later, and increasing the special education cross subsidy aid factor to 90%. The bill also appropriates funds from the general fund to the Department of Education for various educational aids, including provisions for unemployment aid for hourly workers during the summer term for fiscal years 2026 and 2027. Overall, the bill seeks to provide more equitable funding and resources to enhance educational opportunities across Minnesota school districts while addressing the financial needs of educators and staff during the summer months.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 123B.53, 124D.65, 125A.76, 126C.10, 126C.17, 126C.44