Minnesota Senate Bill SF5128

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/20/24
• Refer: 3/20/24
• Refer: 4/8/24

Caption

Pilot program creation to provide meal stipends to full-time PSEO students

Impact

The proposed bill mandates the commissioner of the Office of Higher Education to implement a meal stipend program with a budget of $1 million allocated for fiscal year 2025. Selected institutions must cater to both metropolitan and non-metropolitan areas to ensure equitable support across geographic regions. By prioritizing aid based on financial need, the program aims to alleviate food insecurity among students participating in PSEO courses, which is seen as crucial for their academic success and retention.

Summary

Senate File 5128 establishes a pilot program aimed at providing meal stipends to full-time Post Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) students at two selected postsecondary institutions in Minnesota. The program is designed to aid students who demonstrate high financial need, particularly benefiting those who qualify for free or reduced-price meals. The initiative is part of broader efforts to support accessible education and improve student welfare for those engaged in dual enrollment programs that allow them to take college courses while still in high school.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for addressing essential student needs, concerns may arise regarding the adequacy of funding and the pilot program's duration, which is set to expire on July 1, 2028. There may also be debates on the sufficiency of the selection criteria for institutions and the eligibility requirements for students. Critics could voice the need for more substantial and permanent solutions rather than temporary pilots, questioning whether the funding is enough to cover the broad needs of all eligible students across diverse educational institutions.