The bill proposes an appropriation of $250,000 from the arts and cultural heritage fund for the fiscal year 2026, specifically designated for a youth water safety grant program. This funding will be allocated by the commissioner of education to eligible applicants, which include nonprofit organizations and city and county parks and recreation programs that offer swimming lessons to youth. The bill emphasizes that these applicants do not need to partner with other entities to qualify for the grants.

The primary use of the grant money is to provide scholarships for low-income and at-risk children to access swimming lessons. Additionally, the bill allows for up to 15 percent of the grant funds to be utilized for hiring or training water safety instructors and lifeguards in nationally recognized practices. This initiative aims to enhance water safety education and accessibility for youth in Minnesota.