This bill amends various sections of Minnesota Statutes related to education, specifically focusing on teacher licensure, maltreatment reporting requirements, and data classification. Notably, it introduces a new subdivision to section 13.41, classifying license application denial orders from the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board as public data, effective July 1, 2026. Additionally, it modifies section 122A.20 to expand mandatory reporting requirements for school boards and administrators regarding teachers and administrators who are discharged, suspended, or criminally charged with specific offenses. The bill also emphasizes the need for cooperation in investigations and mandates that relevant information be shared with licensing boards.

Further amendments include the addition of a clause in section 127A.42 that allows the commissioner to withhold state aid for noncompliance with mandatory reporting requirements. Section 127A.43 is updated to reflect that districts failing to comply with these reporting requirements may face reductions in state aid. Moreover, sections 260E.12 and 260E.35 are revised to ensure that law enforcement and child protection agencies promptly notify the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board when maltreatment by licensed educators is determined, and to require the sharing of unredacted investigative files with the licensing entity. These changes aim to enhance accountability and transparency in the education system regarding teacher conduct and maltreatment reporting.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 13.41, 122A.20, 127A.42, 127A.43, 260E.12, 260E.35