The bill establishes a new program for expanded-capacity grants and forgivable loans aimed at enhancing dental assisting and hygiene education programs in Minnesota. The commissioner of health is tasked with making these financial resources available to accredited higher education programs, 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. 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.

Additionally, the bill appropriates $20 million from the general fund for fiscal year 2026 to support these expanded capacity grants and forgivable loans, with the funds available until June 30, 2028. This financial support aims to address the growing need for dental professionals by expanding educational opportunities in the state.