The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 126C.45, to authorize school districts to collaborate and share expenses for the operation and maintenance of ice arenas. It allows two or more school districts to enter into cooperation agreements, which require them to apportion qualifying costs and annual levy amounts among the participating districts. Additionally, these cooperating districts must report the cost and levy apportionment to the Department of Education as specified by the commissioner.

Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the requirement for districts to provide equal sports opportunities for male and female students using the ice arena, particularly regarding access to prime practice times and support for junior varsity and younger teams for girls' ice sports. The new provisions will take effect for taxes payable in 2026 and later.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 126C.45