This bill modifies the Workforce Development Scholarship Program and appropriates funding for the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. Key aspects of the bill include:

1. Scholarship Program Enhancements:

   • Expands eligibility to new students and those returning from the workforce.
     
   • Provides scholarships of up to:
     • $2,500 per year for students in two-year colleges (distributed flexibly).
     • $1,500 for noncredit programs, covering tuition, materials, and exams.
       
     • $3,500 per year for students in four-year universities.
       
   • Permits flexible use of funds for costs such as tools, transportation, uniforms, and credit for prior learning assessments.
     

2. Program Eligibility Adjustments:

   • Expands the list of eligible fields of study, including healthcare, IT, early childhood education, construction, public safety, and energy.
     
   • Allows institutions to add a unique field based on local workforce shortages.
     
   • Requires students to be enrolled in at least nine credits to qualify.
     

3. Scholarship Renewal & Limits:

   • Increases total lifetime award limit from $7,500 to $8,500.
     
   • Students may apply for a second or third scholarship based on academic progress or transfer to a four-year program.
     

4. Administrative Provisions:

   • Introduces a preference for students with financial need.
     
   • Allocates up to 1.5% of program funds for administration and outreach.
     
   • Allows institutions to adjust scholarship use for non-tuition expenses such as certification exams and learning assessments.
     

5. Appropriations for Higher Education (Fiscal Years 2026 & 2027):

   • General Fund Appropriations:
     
     • $237.96 million for FY 2026 and $236.96 million for FY 2027 for operations and maintenance.
       
     • $50 million for infrastructure repairs.
       
     • $25 million for demolition of obsolete buildings.
       
     • $25 million for implementing the Workday Student information system.
       
     • $19.4 million annually for expanded student support services.
       
     • $1.05 million annually for free course materials.
       
     • $93 million in FY 2026 and $192 million in FY 2027 for staff costs, academic programs, and tuition control.
       
     • $4.25 million annually for high-demand career and technical programs.
       
     • $6.75 million annually for upgrading equipment and facilities.
       
     • $6.75 million annually for industry sector programming and work-based learning experiences.
       
     • $6.75 million annually for expanding the workforce development scholarship program.
       

• Emergency Grants:
  
  • $5 million per year for emergency student grants to help students facing immediate financial hardships.
    

This bill aims to bolster workforce development, improve access to education, and maintain the financial sustainability of Minnesota’s public colleges and universities.