This bill proposes an amendment to Minnesota Statutes 2024, Section 136F.38, Subdivision 3, regarding workforce development scholarships in the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. Key changes include:

• Expanding the eligibility for scholarships to students pursuing studies in cybersecurity (added to the existing list of eligible programs).
• Allowing each institution to add one additional area of study or certification based on regional workforce shortages as identified by the Department of Employment and Economic Development.
• Eligibility requirements:
  • Students must qualify for resident tuition.
  • Must be enrolled in at least nine credits at a two-year college for first- and second-year scholarships.
  • Eligible for a one-year transfer scholarship when transferring from a two-year to a four-year university within the Minnesota State system after two or more terms.

The bill aims to address workforce shortages and increase access to financial aid for students in high-demand fields.