The bill establishes the Opportunity Scholarship Program in Minnesota, aimed at enhancing academic success for students in grades K-12, particularly those residing in Special School District No. 1 (Minneapolis) and Independent School District No. 625 (St. Paul). It amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 126C.05, subdivision 8, to include students participating in this program in the average daily membership count for fiscal year 2027 and beyond. The program allows eligible students to enroll in qualifying nonpublic schools, with provisions for tuition payment and reimbursement for eligible expenses, including personal computers.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of school districts in administering the program, including notifying families about participation options and ensuring that students are counted as enrolled pupils for funding purposes. It also mandates the transfer of remaining general education funds to students' 529 accounts at the end of each school year, with specific procedures for families to document and manage these funds. The bill includes appropriations from the general fund to support the program and its associated costs.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 126C.05