Purpose of the Bill

The bill is aimed at directing funds and resources towards research on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The goal is to enhance scientific understanding and work towards finding a cure for ALS, as well as improving the quality of life for those affected by the disease.

Main Provisions

• Funding Cancellation and Re-allocation: An existing appropriation of $15,000,000, initially assigned to the Office of Higher Education, is canceled. Instead, this amount will now be appropriated to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota.

• Research Partnership: The funding will be used for a collaborative research partnership between the University of Minnesota and the Mayo Clinic to conduct ALS research.

• Annual Reporting: Beginning January 15, 2026, and continuing annually until January 15, 2030 (or until funds are completely utilized), the University of Minnesota's Board of Regents is required to report to the legislature detailing the use of the allocated funds.

Significant Changes

• Repeal of Previous Laws: The bill repeals the existing legal framework set by Laws 2022 chapter 42 section 2, which was amended in 2024. This repeal halts the previous grants program administrated by the Office of Higher Education and reallocates those responsibilities and resources.

• Shift from Grant-Based Model: The prior grant-based funding model managed by the Office of Higher Education in collaboration with the Minnesota Department of Health is replaced by a direct partnership with the University of Minnesota and the Mayo Clinic.

Relevant Terms

amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), funding appropriation, Minnesota Department of Health, University of Minnesota, Mayo Clinic, research partnership, legislative report, competitive grants, Office of Higher Education.