This bill aims to enhance the protection of minors in educational settings by introducing new reporting requirements and establishing the criminal offense of grooming. It amends several sections of Minnesota Statutes, including provisions that require school boards and administrators to report to licensing boards when a teacher or administrator is discharged or resigns under certain circumstances. The bill also mandates that police departments notify licensing boards when a teacher is charged with specific offenses, including grooming. Additionally, it requires the Commissioner of Children, Youth, and Families to update mandated reporter training to include information on recognizing and reporting grooming behaviors.

The bill defines grooming as a felony offense, detailing the actions that constitute this crime, particularly when committed by individuals in positions of authority over minors. It introduces penalties for those found guilty of grooming, including potential imprisonment and fines. Furthermore, the bill appropriates funds for various educational initiatives, including increasing the capacity of the student maltreatment program. The effective dates for the new provisions related to grooming and the reporting requirements are set for August 1, 2026, and July 1, 2026, respectively.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 122A.20, 260E.15, 260E.28, 609.352
1st Engrossment: 122A.20, 260E.15, 260E.28, 609.352
2nd Engrossment: 122A.20, 260E.15, 260E.28, 609.352
3rd Engrossment: 122A.20, 260E.15, 260E.28, 609.352
4th Engrossment: 122A.20, 260E.15, 260E.28, 609.352
5th Engrossment: 122A.20, 260E.15, 609.352
1st Unofficial Engrossment: 122A.20, 260E.15, 609.352
2nd Unofficial Engrossment: 122A.20, 260E.15, 609.352