The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 136A.1465, to refine the eligibility criteria for the North Star Promise scholarship. It specifies that students must be enrolled in programs of study that are in-demand within Minnesota's job market. New language has been added to establish a subdivision that outlines the criteria for eligible programs, which will be determined by the office based on employment data from the Department of Employment and Economic Development. The office is tasked with reviewing and updating the list of in-demand industries and occupations every three years, ensuring that the scholarship aligns with current labor market needs.

Additionally, the bill modifies the reporting requirements for the commissioner of higher education. The commissioner will now be required to include a list of all currently eligible programs of study under the new subdivision in their reports to legislative committees. The bill also specifies that it will take effect the day after final enactment and will apply to scholarship awards starting in the fall term of the 2026-2027 academic year.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 136A.1465