This bill aims to improve higher education accessibility and support for students in Minnesota, with a particular focus on parenting students and American Indian scholars. It mandates postsecondary institutions to prioritize registration for pregnant and parenting students, preventing them from having to take leaves of absence due to their status. The bill also expands eligibility for the American Indian Scholars program to include students from Minnesota Tribal Nations, regardless of their resident tuition status. Additionally, it introduces paid blood donation leave for Minnesota State Colleges and Universities employees, which was not previously available to them. The legislation sets a new postsecondary attainment goal of 75% for Minnesota residents aged 24 to 55 by 2040, emphasizing equitable attainment across racial and ethnic groups.

Moreover, the bill amends various provisions related to private career schools, enhancing regulatory oversight and accountability. It establishes new requirements for financial documentation, including a statement of total gross tuition and fee revenues, and outlines specific financial reporting obligations based on revenue levels. The bill also revises the appeals process for licensing actions, allowing for a reasonable time for schools to correct deficiencies before any punitive measures are taken. Additionally, it introduces new definitions and requirements for student contracts and refund policies, ensuring transparency for prospective students. Overall, the legislation seeks to strengthen the educational framework in Minnesota, promoting inclusivity and accountability within both public and private educational institutions.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 135A.121, 136A.053, 136A.091, 136A.121, 136A.1215, 136A.1241, 136A.125, 136A.1274, 136A.1275, 136A.1465, 124D.09
1st Engrossment: 43A.187, 135A.012, 135A.121, 136A.053, 136A.091, 136A.121, 136A.1215, 136A.1241, 136A.125, 136A.1274, 136A.1275, 136A.1465, 136A.233, 136A.62, 136A.64, 136A.65, 136A.653, 136A.672, 136A.675, 136A.821, 136A.822, 136A.823, 136A.826, 136A.827, 136A.828, 136A.829, 136A.8295, 136A.83, 136G.03, 136G.05, 136G.13, 137.0246, 137.39