Bill > HF2634

This bill modifies the North Star Promise scholarship program by limiting eligibility to students pursuing programs of study in high-demand industries and occupations in Minnesota. The bill requires the state office to determine these in-demand fields based on employment data from the Department of Employment and Economic Development, focusing on the top 20 industries and occupations with the highest projected employment growth or job openings. The office must review and update this list at least every three years. The scholarship's existing eligibility requirements remain largely unchanged, including maintaining a family adjusted gross income below $80,000, being enrolled in at least one credit per semester, and not having already earned a baccalaureate degree. The bill also mandates that the commissioner of higher education submit an annual report starting February 15, 2026, which will now include a list of currently eligible programs of study and the specific programs in which scholarship recipients are enrolled. The changes will take effect for scholarship awards beginning in the fall term of the 2026-2027 academic year, aiming to better align educational support with the state's workforce needs.

Education

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF2634&ssn=0&y=2025