The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2025 Supplement, section 123B.09, subdivision 5b, to modify the procedures for filling vacancies on school boards. It establishes that any vacancy, except those specified in subdivision 4, must be filled by board appointment during a regular or special meeting. The new provision requires that the board first offer the vacant position to the individual who received the next highest number of votes in the most recent election. If that individual declines the offer, the board has the discretion to appoint another candidate.

Additionally, the bill outlines the timeline for special elections to fill vacancies, stating that such elections must occur no later than the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November following the vacancy, with specific provisions for vacancies occurring close to the election date. It also clarifies that if a vacancy arises due to a member's removal, a special election must be held promptly. Furthermore, an appointment can be challenged by a petition from eligible voters, which must be filed within 30 days of the appointment, requiring signatures from at least five percent of the voters from the last state general election for it to be valid.