HF1258

This Minnesota House bill (H.F. No. 1258) seeks to amend existing education finance laws to allow school districts to collaborate in operating and maintaining ice arenas. Specifically, the bill:

1. Authorizes Cooperation: It permits two or more school districts to enter into cooperative agreements to share expenses for the operation and maintenance of an ice arena.
2. Levy Allocation: Each participating district must apportion operational costs and levy amounts as outlined in their cooperation agreement.
3. Reporting Requirement: Cooperating districts must report cost-sharing details to the Department of Education.
4. Gender Equity Requirement: Districts operating ice arenas must demonstrate compliance with gender equity standards, ensuring equal access and opportunities for male and female students, including fair practice times and support for female ice sports teams.

By amending Minnesota Statutes 2024, Section 126C.45, this bill expands financial flexibility for school districts while reinforcing commitments to equitable access to ice sports facilities.