Bill > HF2895

This bill establishes an education empowerment account program that allows eligible Minnesota students to receive state funding for educational expenses. Specifically, the program creates individual accounts for students that can be used to pay for tuition, fees, textbooks, educational therapies, transportation, and technology. Any student residing in Minnesota and eligible to enroll in public school from prekindergarten through 12th grade can participate. Each student's account will be funded with an amount equal to the statewide average general education revenue per pupil, adjusted by grade-level weighting. Parents can use the funds primarily for tuition and fees, and any remaining money after high school graduation can be applied to postsecondary tuition in the year immediately following graduation. If a participating student re-enrolls in a Minnesota public school or charter school, the account will be closed and remaining funds returned to the state general fund. The bill requires the Department of Education to create an application process, notify eligible students annually, and establish oversight mechanisms to ensure proper use of the funds. The program is set to become effective for the 2026-2027 school year, with funding to come from available federal funds and state appropriations. The bill also includes provisions to ensure that the program does not increase state control over non-public schools.

Budget and Finance

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF2895&ssn=0&y=2025