The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 126C.45, to authorize school districts to collaborate in the operation and maintenance of ice arenas. It allows two or more school districts to enter into cooperation agreements to share expenses related to the ice arena, with the requirement that they apportion the qualifying costs and annual levy amounts as specified in the agreement. Additionally, cooperating districts must report the apportionment of costs and levies to the Department of Education in a manner determined by the commissioner.

The bill also includes a provision that mandates districts to ensure equal sports opportunities for male and female students using the ice arena, particularly regarding access to practice time and support for girls' ice sports. The effective date for these changes is set for taxes payable in 2026 and later.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 126C.45