Bill > HF899

This bill modifies existing Minnesota law regarding the prohibition of American Indian mascots in public schools, extending and clarifying previous restrictions. Starting September 1, 2026, public schools will be prohibited from using names, symbols, or images depicting American Indian tribes, individuals, customs, or traditions as mascots, logos, or team names, with some exceptions. Schools located within a federally recognized Tribal Nation's reservation where 95% of students are American Indian are exempted from this rule. The bill requires school districts with prohibited mascots to report their progress towards compliance to legislative committees, including details about removing mascots from websites, obtaining board approval for new mascots, and detailing the resources needed for implementation. Notably, the bill introduces a new provision allowing the commissioner of education to establish a funding process to help schools cover the costs of replacing prohibited mascots on uniforms, signs, equipment, and other school property. Schools can apply for reimbursement for expenses incurred after July 1, 2023, and will not be required to comply with the prohibition until their funding request is approved. The bill also includes an appropriation to support mascot replacement assistance, with funds available until July 1, 2028, though the specific dollar amount is not specified in the provided text.

Education

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF0899&ssn=0&y=2025