Minnesota Senate Bill SF1923

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/20/23
• Refer: 2/20/23

Caption

Definition expansion of qualified higher education expenses for section 529 qualified tuition plans to include distributions for apprenticeship expenses, certain student loan repayment, and elementary secondary school tuition

Impact

If enacted, SF1923 would amend current Minnesota Statutes to reflect this expanded definition, thus allowing families to utilize their 529 plan accounts for a broader range of educational expenses. This could significantly impact state laws relating to educational funding and taxation, potentially making it easier for families to pay for early education and help with student loan debt. Moreover, it encourages investment in education at various levels, which is crucial for workforce development.

Summary

Senate File 1923 is a legislative proposal aimed at expanding the definition of qualified higher education expenses under section 529 qualified tuition plans. The bill includes provisions that would allow distributions from these plans to cover apprenticeship expenses, certain student loan repayments, and tuition fees for elementary and secondary schools. This change seeks to ease the financial burden on families by providing more flexibility in how education-related expenses can be funded through tax-advantaged accounts, ultimately promoting greater access to education.

Contention

While the bill carries the potential for positive outcomes in terms of accessibility to educational resources, it may also face contention regarding its fiscal implications. Critics may argue that expanding the scope of 529 plans could lead to increased state budgetary pressures or discourage direct funding for public educational institutions. Some stakeholders may express concerns over the prioritization of tax benefits and how they affect overall educational equity, particularly for lower-income families who may not have access to such savings plans.