The 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. Additionally, the bill stipulates that three percent of the total adult basic education aid must be allocated for supplemental service grants. These changes are set to take effect for revenue in fiscal year 2026 and later.

Furthermore, the bill addresses the 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 for one full battery of tests per year. The bill also 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 date for the provisions related to high school equivalency tests is set for July 1, 2025.

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