This bill establishes a new field trip policy for schools, mandating that school employees, independent contractors, or volunteers must not be alone with a student during field trips, including those with overnight stays. It also introduces the criminal offense of grooming, defining it as a pattern of conduct by an adult that seduces or entices a child to engage in unlawful sexual conduct for sexual gratification. The bill amends several sections of Minnesota Statutes, including provisions related to teacher licensure and mandatory reporting of misconduct, and it requires that police departments notify licensing boards when a teacher is charged with specific offenses.

Additionally, the bill enhances the reporting requirements for school boards and licensing boards regarding allegations of misconduct involving teachers and administrators. It mandates that the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board and the Board of School Administrators report any revocation or suspension of a teacher's license related to inappropriate sexual conduct with a minor to law enforcement. The bill also includes provisions for training on reporting maltreatment and grooming for education professionals, ensuring that they are equipped to identify and report such issues effectively. The new provisions are set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 122A.20, 260E.15, 260E.28, 609.352