The bill proposes the establishment of a minimum wage for certain state interns in Minnesota, specifically mandating a wage of at least $15 per hour for those who qualify. To be eligible, interns must be recipients of a federal Pell Grant based on the federal needs analysis and must be enrolled in at least nine semester credits per term or the equivalent. The definition of a state intern aligns with the existing law under section 43A.02, subdivision 24, and includes interns working in designated positions across the executive, legislative, or judicial branches.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that this minimum wage requirement does not apply to state interns who qualify for unpaid internships under federal labor laws. This legislation aims to ensure fair compensation for state interns who meet specific educational and financial criteria, thereby promoting equitable opportunities within state employment.