Bill > HF3653

This bill, titled "Safe schools revenue increased to school districts, safe schools aid to charter schools and cooperative units provided, and money appropriated," aims to enhance funding for safe school initiatives in Minnesota. Starting in fiscal year 2027, the bill modifies how school districts calculate their "safe schools revenue," which is the money available for safety programs. Previously, this revenue was primarily based on a "safe schools levy" (a local tax). Now, it will be a combination of "safe schools aid" (state funding) and the levy. The bill introduces new state aid for school districts, providing $100 per adjusted pupil unit, and also establishes "safe schools aid" for charter schools and "cooperative units" (organizations that provide shared services to multiple school districts, as defined in section 123A.24, subdivision 2). Cooperative units will receive $35 per adjusted pupil unit of their member districts. The bill also clarifies that "safe schools revenue" can be used for a broader range of safety-related expenses, including peace officer services, drug and gang prevention programs, general security, mental health support staff like counselors and nurses, facility security enhancements, improving school climate, and cybersecurity measures. Finally, it appropriates money from the general fund to the Department of Education to cover these new aid provisions.

Budget and Finance

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2026/0/HF/3653/