This bill aims to enhance funding for adult basic education in Minnesota by increasing the state total adult basic education aid from $52,759,000 in fiscal year 2024 to $65,170,000 in fiscal year 2026. It modifies the aid limit for adult basic education programs, raising the maximum aid per prior year contact hour from $30 to $36, and increasing the allowable adjustment for program aid from $10,000 to $12,000. The bill also stipulates that any unallocated adult basic education aid due to program aid limitations will be added to the state total adult basic education aid for the following fiscal year.

Additionally, the bill addresses funding for commissioner-selected high school equivalency tests, ensuring that the commissioner will cover the costs for eligible individuals, with a cap on the reimbursement amount. The bill includes appropriations from the general fund to the Department of Education for adult basic education aid and high school equivalency tests, with specific amounts designated for fiscal years 2025, 2026, and 2027. The effective dates for these changes are set for fiscal year 2026 and later, with the high school equivalency test provisions effective July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 124D.531, 124D.55