This bill amends the definitions of "teacher" in Minnesota Statutes for both the Teachers Retirement Association and the St. Paul Teachers Retirement Fund Association. It introduces a new category of teachers, specifically including individuals who are citizens of countries other than the United States and are employed on a J-1 visa. The bill also removes certain exclusions from the definition of "teacher," such as independent contractors and those receiving retirement annuities from the teachers' retirement fund association, while adding the new clause regarding J-1 visa holders.

Additionally, the bill mandates the refund of employee contributions for teachers employed on May 31, 2026, who would have been excluded from eligibility under the new definitions had they been in effect at the time of their employment. These refunds will be issued by the executive directors of the respective retirement associations, with interest compounded annually, and must be completed by July 31, 2026. The effective date for these changes is set for July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 354.05, 354A.011