Bill > SF244

This bill establishes an Education Savings Account (ESA) program in Minnesota that allows eligible students from low-income households to receive state funding for educational expenses. The program provides eligible students (those from households earning up to four times the reduced-price meal income standard) with monthly funds equal to the state's per-pupil formula allowance, which can be used for a wide range of educational services and products. Qualifying expenses include tuition at private or public schools, tutoring, curriculum materials, textbooks, transportation, online learning programs, testing fees, educational services, technology, and summer educational programs. The program has a phased implementation, starting with 5% of public school average daily membership and increasing by 3% annually, with priority given to kindergarteners, public school students, and siblings of current participants. Parents must agree to provide organized educational services and cannot enroll their children in public schools while participating. The Department of Revenue will administer the program, with provisions for fraud prevention, a parent advisory panel, and automatic annual renewal for returning students. Students can use remaining funds for postsecondary education, and the account will be closed four years after high school graduation if not used. The bill aims to provide educational flexibility and choice for families, particularly those with limited financial resources.

Education

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF0244&ssn=0&y=2025