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 for the revocation or suspension of teaching licenses in cases of serious offenses such as child abuse and grooming. The bill mandates that school boards and educational authorities report incidents involving teachers or administrators who are discharged or resign under certain allegations, and it requires law enforcement to notify licensing boards when a teacher is charged with specific offenses. A new definition of grooming is introduced, outlining the criteria for this felony offense, which includes the intent to engage in sexual conduct with a child and a deliberate pattern of behavior aimed at manipulating the child.

Additionally, the bill updates training for mandated reporters in the education sector to include information on grooming and the duty to report such behavior. It clarifies that local welfare agencies and law enforcement can investigate allegations of maltreatment that occurred more than three years prior to the report. The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, specifically section 609.352, by adding a new subdivision, 2e, which classifies certain acts as felonies if committed by licensed educators against students enrolled at their schools, regardless of the students' ages. The penalty structure for convictions is also updated, and the new provisions will take effect on August 1, 2026, applying to crimes committed on or after that date. Overall, the bill seeks to strengthen the framework for protecting children from sexual abuse and misconduct in educational environments.

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