Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

Minnesota Senate Bill SF1276

Introduced
2/6/23  

Caption

Early learning scholarship program modification and appropriation

Impact

The impact of SF1276 on Minnesota state laws includes amendments to the existing statute regarding early learning scholarships, particularly Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 124D.165. The amendments introduce specific priority criteria for scholarship applications, favoring families in various vulnerable situations, ensuring alignment with the state’s aim to support children from lower-income households and those facing significant challenges. This shift aims to provide a more inclusive educational framework that benefits at-risk children, fostering early development and preparation for schooling.

Summary

SF1276 is a bill aimed at modifying the early learning scholarships program in Minnesota. The bill outlines eligibility requirements for families seeking these scholarships, particularly emphasizing income thresholds and specific conditions for children such as those in foster care or experiencing homelessness. The modifications intend to expand access to early education resources for families who may not otherwise have the financial means to support their child's educational development before kindergarten.

Contention

Notable points of contention around the bill may involve discussions regarding funding allocations and the sustainability of resources for the expanded eligibility. Stakeholders, including educators and policymakers, could raise concerns about the adequacy of financial support required to meet the anticipated increase in demand for these scholarships, particularly in the light of the appropriations specified in the bill. Additionally, the prioritization of certain applicant families might attract scrutiny from advocates who seek broader definitions of eligibility or additional support for other groups in need.

Companion Bills

MN HF1277

Similar To Early leaning scholarships program changes made, and money appropriated.

Similar Bills

MN HF2090

Default living and miscellaneous expenses allowance increased for the state grant program, new State Grant Plus scholarship established to supplement state grant awards, Office of Higher Education grant programs created, and money appropriated.

MN SF2495

Default living and miscellaneous expenses allowance for the state higher education grant program authorization; State Grant Plus scholarship to supplement state grant awards establishment; grant programs establishment within the Office of Higher Education; appropriating money

MN HF1383

Program established to assist families with the cost of child care.

MN SF2759

Cost of child care assistance for families program establishment and appropriation

MN HF3681

Child care tax data; program to assist families with cost of child care established, disclosure of tax return information for purposes of verifying eligibility for early child care and learning benefits programs authorized, and money appropriated.

MN SF3790

Child care cost assistance program establishment; disclosure of tax return information for purposes of verifying eligibility for early child care and learning benefit programs authorization; appropriating money

MN HF1277

Early leaning scholarships program changes made, and money appropriated.

MN HF1142

Early learning scholarships program changes made.