This bill, Minnesota Senate File No. 1978, proposes to amend Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 136A.1465, subdivision 1, and add a new provision under chapter 136A.

Key Provisions:

1. Prohibition of State Financial Aid for Undocumented Noncitizens:

   • The bill explicitly prohibits undocumented noncitizens or individuals not lawfully present in the United States from receiving any form of state-funded financial aid for higher education.

2. Types of Aid Affected:

   • The restriction applies to payments, grants, loans, subsidies, or any other financial assistance that is funded by state tax revenue.

3. Implementation:

   • The Minnesota Office of Higher Education (through the commissioner) would be responsible for ensuring that state-funded financial aid is not awarded to undocumented noncitizens.

Potential Impact:

• If enacted, this law would bar undocumented students from accessing state financial aid programs, including scholarships, grants, and tuition assistance that are funded by Minnesota taxpayers.
• It could particularly impact students who currently qualify under the Minnesota Dream Act, which provides in-state tuition and financial aid to certain undocumented students.

Legislative Status:

• Introduced on February 27, 2025, and referred to the Higher Education Committee for further consideration.

This bill seeks to restrict access to state-funded financial aid for undocumented individuals pursuing higher education in Minnesota.