This bill aims to enhance funding and policy frameworks for higher education in Minnesota, specifically targeting the Office of Higher Education, Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, and the University of Minnesota. It introduces new scholarship and student aid programs, modifies existing reporting requirements, and establishes a standardized financial aid offer form. Key provisions include appropriations for a campus sexual violence prevention coordinator, funding for hunger-free campus activities, and emergency assistance grants for students. The bill also addresses sexual misconduct grievance processes, licensing requirements for nonpublic and out-of-state institutions, and mandates annual reporting on various educational initiatives.

Additionally, the bill outlines significant appropriations for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, including funds for workforce development, emergency assistance, and health-related initiatives. It introduces new requirements for handling sexual misconduct cases, mandates the maintenance of food pantries on campuses, and emphasizes the importance of addressing health disparities. The bill also amends existing laws related to financial aid, clarifies eligibility criteria, and streamlines regulatory frameworks for private career schools. Overall, the legislation seeks to improve educational outcomes, enhance student support, and ensure compliance with federal standards in Minnesota's higher education system.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 135A.137, 136A.01, 136A.101, 136A.103, 136A.121, 136A.1465, 136A.155, 136A.162, 136A.1701, 136A.1796, 136A.658, 136A.69, 136A.82, 136A.821, 136A.822, 136A.824, 136A.833, 136A.834
1st Engrossment: 135A.052, 135A.15, 135A.1582, 136A.01, 136A.101, 136A.103, 136A.121, 136A.1465, 136A.155, 136A.162, 136A.1796, 136A.246, 136A.65, 136A.653, 136A.658, 136A.69, 136A.821, 136A.822, 136A.824, 136A.833, 136A.834, 136A.87, 136A.901, 137.022, 151.37, 474A.061
2nd Engrossment: 135A.052, 135A.15, 135A.1582, 136A.01, 136A.101, 136A.103, 136A.121, 136A.1465, 136A.155, 136A.162, 136A.1796, 136A.246, 136A.65, 136A.653, 136A.658, 136A.69, 136A.821, 136A.822, 136A.824, 136A.833, 136A.834, 136A.87, 136A.901, 137.022, 151.37, 474A.061